DHS proposes $70,000 fee for OPT recommendations

The Department of Homeland Security proposed requiring schools to pay $70,000 for an international student’s first recommendation for Optional Practical Training work authorization and $30,000 for each subsequent renewal or recommendation. The charges are not in effect and would require a final rule after a 60-day public-comment period. OPT allows eligible international students to work in jobs related to their studies. Students generally may work for up to 12 months after graduation, while graduates with qualifying science, technology, engineering and mathematics degrees may be eligible for an additional 24 months. Under the proposal, the school, rather than the student, would pay the fees. The measure would apply to schools making recommendations for students to participate in the program. One account of the proposal said the fees would apply prospectively to new recommendations if the rule is finalized; the final scope and terms remain subject to DHS’s decision. DHS said the proposal is intended to address suspected fraud and abuse in the program.