The Department of Homeland Security has proposed a $70,000 fee for a certified school’s initial recommendation of an F-1 student for Optional Practical Training, followed by $30,000 for later recommendations. The proposed fees would be paid by schools, not directly by students.
The proposal is part of a draft DHS rule that is scheduled for publication in the Federal Register on Oct. 8. Under the plan, a school would pay the initial fee before its designated official recommends a student for OPT.
The program allows F-1 visa holders to gain practical work experience related to their field of study during or after school. Graduates are generally eligible for up to a year of post-completion work, with some science, technology, engineering and mathematics graduates eligible for an additional two-year period.
The $70,000 fee would apply to a student’s first recommendation for any type of OPT. A later recommendation would trigger a $30,000 fee, including one for a STEM OPT extension.
DHS says the proposal is intended to combat fraud and protect U.S. workers. The department says the fees would strengthen oversight of the program. Its regulatory analysis also acknowledges that the costs could affect participation and school budgets.
The proposal is not yet in force. DHS has proposed that any final rule take effect 60 days after publication.