Proposed $70,000 OPT Fee Raises New Questions for US Universities

Reuters reported October 7 on a Trump administration proposal for a $70,000 initial Optional Practical Training charge, with an additional proposed fee tied to extensions. The unusually large figures drew immediate concern from students, higher-education institutions and employers reliant on international graduates. The administration had not made the proposal a final effective regulation.

OPT operates within the F-1 student framework and is different from the J-1 exchange-visitor route and the H-1B worker category. Rules about who would pay, which applications would be covered and how any exemptions would work depend on the text ultimately adopted. A proposed fee cannot be treated as an amount already due on every student's application.

For universities, potential consequences include reduced recruitment appeal, pressure on job-placement outcomes and different demand for STEM programs. Those outcomes are scenarios rather than observed effects of a fee that has not been finalized.

Students considering applications should check agency notices and university international offices for current requirements. Do not send payment based on a speculative headline or assume the reported proposal changes an already granted authorization.