The Trump administration is reportedly considering a proposal to impose a $100,000 (around ₹87 lakh) fee on international students who wish to work in the United States after graduation under the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme. If implemented, the move would dramatically increase the cost of securing post-study work authorisation and could significantly affect thousands of international students, particularly those from India.
The proposal is still under discussion and has not yet been officially approved.
What Is OPT?
The Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme allows international students on F-1 visas to work in the US in jobs related to their field of study after completing their education.
Most graduates can work for up to 12 months, while students in eligible STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields can receive an extension, allowing them to work for up to three years.
The programme is widely used by graduates to gain professional experience before applying for long-term work visas such as the H-1B.
How The New Proposal Could Work
According to reports, the proposed $100,000 fee could be linked to participation in the OPT programme.
Officials are still discussing whether the amount would be paid directly by students, their employers or educational institutions. The proposal is reportedly being considered after a separate plan to impose a similar fee on H-1B visas faced legal hurdles.
The administration is also expected to introduce broader changes to OPT regulations as part of its immigration reforms.
Big Impact On Indian Students
India is one of the largest sources of international students in the United States, with a significant proportion enrolling in STEM programmes that rely heavily on OPT for post-study employment.
If the proposed fee is implemented, it could substantially increase the financial burden on students already paying high tuition fees and living expenses. Universities may also face challenges attracting international applicants if post-study employment becomes significantly more expensive.
Technology companies, financial firms and other employers that regularly hire international graduates could also be affected.
Supporters And Critics Divided
Supporters of the proposal argue that stricter rules would reduce misuse of temporary work programmes and encourage employers to prioritise hiring American workers.
Critics, however, believe such a high fee could discourage talented international students from choosing US universities, making competing destinations such as Canada, the UK and Australia more attractive for higher education and employment.
Universities have also expressed concerns that international students contribute significantly to research, innovation and campus revenues.
Proposal Yet To Be Finalised
At present, the proposal remains under consideration and has not become official policy.
The administration is expected to release further details as part of a broader review of student visa and immigration regulations. Until then, existing OPT rules continue to remain in effect.
Summary
The Trump administration is considering a proposal to impose a $100,000 fee on international students seeking post-study employment through the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme. If approved, the move could significantly increase the cost of working in the US after graduation, particularly affecting Indian students, universities and employers that rely on international talent.
