Trump Administration Weighs $100,000 Fee for Foreign Students Seeking Jobs in US After Graduation
The Trump administration is reportedly considering a major proposal that could significantly impact international students studying in the United States. According to reports, foreign students who wish to continue working in the US after completing their studies may be required to pay a fee of up to $100,000 under changes being considered for the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program.
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DHS Reportedly Reviewing Proposal
According to a report, the proposal is under consideration by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
If implemented, international students seeking to remain in the United States for employment after graduation could face a fee of up to $100,000.
What Is the OPT Program?
The Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows eligible international students studying on an F-1 student visa to work in the United States after completing their education.
The program is considered an extension of the F-1 student visa and provides graduates with practical work experience related to their field of study.
Students in eligible disciplines, particularly certain specialized fields, may generally be allowed to work in the US for up to three years under the OPT program.
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Over 419,000 Students Worked Under OPT in 2024
According to 2024 data, approximately 419,000 international students were working in the United States under the OPT program.
The proposed fee could therefore affect a large number of foreign graduates currently using the program.
Proposal Follows Earlier H-1B Fee Plan
The latest proposal comes after the Trump administration had earlier proposed charging $100,000 from H-1B visa holders.
However, that proposal was challenged in a US court, and the court rejected its implementation.
Reports now suggest that the administration is exploring an alternative approach by imposing a higher fee on the OPT program instead of the H-1B visa route.
Technology Companies Opposed Earlier Proposal
Major US technology companies had opposed the earlier proposal to impose a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas.
These companies employ a large number of graduates from American universities and rely heavily on skilled international talent.
Indian Students Could Be Among the Most Affected
If the proposed $100,000 OPT fee is implemented, it could have a significant financial impact on thousands of international students studying in the United States, particularly Indian students, who make up one of the largest groups of foreign students in the country.
Conclusion
The Trump administration is reportedly considering a proposal to charge up to $100,000 from international students seeking to work in the United States after graduation through the OPT program. While the proposal is still under consideration, it has the potential to significantly affect thousands of foreign students, especially those planning to build their careers in the US after completing their education.
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Trump administration is reportedly considering a $100,000 fee for international students seeking to work in the US under the OPT program after graduation.
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Trump administration, OPT program, F-1 visa, international students, US education, H-1B visa, Indian students, DHS
