White House on 10/7: Trump Administration remains committed to confronting terrorism

The Trump administration has proposed a substantial fee of $70,000 for international students seeking employment in the United States, as part of efforts to reduce foreign enrollment. This proposal, announced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), would be an initial one-time payment of $205 plus GST, with an annual renewal fee of $233 plus GST.

Schools would be responsible for paying this fee for each student participating in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows students to work in jobs related to their major during or after their studies.

The OPT program, typically offering one year of work post-graduation, is extended to two additional years for students in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. Schools would be required to pay this fee for every new student's initial application and a $30,000 fee for each renewal. This proposal is aimed at addressing fraud and abuse of the visa program, which DHS describes as a "pipeline for cheap foreign labor."

The American education sector, including colleges and universities, as well as tech companies and other industries, could face significant challenges due to this fee. Fanta Aw, CEO of NAFSA, an association representing international education, expressed concern that this move would harm American innovation, economic growth, workforce development, and global leadership by driving away international students' talents, perspectives, and aspirations.

The proposed rule will allow the public 60 days to comment before it can be finalized and implemented. However, it may face legal challenges from higher education groups or business associations, potentially delaying its implementation. President Donald Trump's administration has been targeting international students through various measures, such as the termination of legal status for thousands of students and a rule limiting their stay in the U.S. to four years without approval.

These actions have drawn criticism from higher education leaders, who argue that they would increase the burden on schools and affect programs that are longer than four years by design. A federal court prevented the latter rule from taking effect in September.