DHS Proposes $70,000 Fee for Student Work Programs

The Department of Homeland Security has proposed charging schools $70,000 for an international student’s first Optional Practical Training, or OPT, recommendation, followed by $30,000 for each subsequent recommendation. Since a student applying for OPT and a STEM extension could trigger $100,000 in fees, schools may pass these costs to students or employers. The proposal does not change current work authorization. Public comments are due November 9, 2026.