DHS proposes $70,000 fee for initial OPT participation

The Department of Homeland Security has proposed charging schools $70,000 for each international student’s initial participation in Optional Practical Training and $30,000 for subsequent participation, a measure that is not yet in effect and must undergo public review before any final decision. Under the proposal, schools certified to recommend students for OPT would pay the fees before making recommendations. The rule says institutions may pass the costs to students, employers or the broader student body, but it does not determine who would ultimately bear them. The proposal also covers subsequent participation, including qualifying STEM extensions. OPT allows eligible international students on F-1 visas to take temporary jobs related to their studies. Students generally may work for up to 12 months, with qualifying science, technology, engineering and mathematics graduates eligible for an additional 24 months. The current application fee is about $500, according to the proposal’s coverage. DHS says the fees are intended to address suspected fraud and abuse and strengthen oversight.