Trump considering 100k fees for International Students to work post-graduation
2 hours ago
- The Trump administration is considering a $100,000 fee on Optional Practical Training (OPT) for international graduates to work in the U.S. after graduation.
- OPT allows 419,000 international graduates (as of 2024) to stay in the U.S. for one to three years post-degree.
- The fee would significantly impact the economics of studying in the U.S., affecting universities, employers, and students' choices.
- Universities fear losing international students, who pay full tuition and offset declining domestic enrollment, to competitors like Canada, UK, and Australia.
- Tech companies rely on OPT as a pipeline for skilled workers, often later sponsoring H-1B visas; the fee could worsen talent shortages.
- The Department of Homeland Security is also rewriting OPT regulations, adding uncertainty for international students.