Trump administration proposes $70,000 fee for int'l students to work in US

The Department of Homeland Security has proposed a new $70,000 fee for international students who wish to work in the United States, as the Trump administration seeks to curb foreign enrollment. This proposed rule would require educational institutions to pay the fee for each student who enrolls in the optional practical training program, known as OPT, which permits students to work in jobs relevant to their field of study during or after their studies.

Students generally have a one-year work permit post-graduation, with certain science, technology, engineering, and math majors eligible for an additional two years. Schools would be responsible for paying the fee for each student's initial application to the program, amounting to $70,000, and a $30,000 fee for each renewal. This proposed change could significantly impact American colleges and universities that heavily rely on international students for tuition revenue, as well as technology companies and other industries that frequently hire international students for technical roles.

The OPT program enables international students to gain valuable work experience in their respective fields.