Trump Administration Considers $100,000 Fee for International Graduates

The Trump administration is reportedly considering a $100,000 fee for international students who want to remain in the United States and work after graduating from an American university.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the proposal is being discussed within the Department of Homeland Security but has not been formally approved or published as a proposed regulation. Important details—including whether the student, university, or employer would pay the fee—remain unresolved.

The fee would affect students seeking employment through Optional Practical Training, commonly known as OPT. The program allows eligible F-1 students to obtain temporary employment directly related to their field of study. Standard post-completion OPT generally lasts up to 12 months, while qualifying STEM graduates may receive an additional 24-month extension.

A $100,000 charge would dramatically increase the cost of remaining in the United States after graduation. It could discourage international students from attending American universities and make it more difficult for employers in technology, finance, research, and other specialized industries to recruit graduates.

The reported proposal follows broader changes to student immigration policy, including new fixed periods of admission and extension requirements for certain F-1 students. DHS has acknowledged that international students contribute to American universities, research, innovation, and local economies, while maintaining that additional restrictions are needed to improve oversight and prevent fraud.

For now, international students and employers should understand that the $100,000 OPT fee remains under consideration. No payment requirement has taken effect, and students should continue following the existing OPT application rules unless DHS issues an official announcement.

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