How much is the new OPT fee?
DHS proposes charging $70,000 per F-1 student for the first OPT application (whether pre-completion or post-completion), and $30,000 for each subsequent application, including STEM OPT extensions.
Example: If a student applies for pre-completion OPT and later applies for post-completion OPT, the university must pay $70,000 + $30,000 = $100,000 total.
Who has to pay?
Universities (SEVP-certified schools) must pay the fee before the Designated School Official (DSO) enters the OPT petition into SEVIS. USCIS will deny OPT approval if the fee has not been paid.
This means: Students do not pay the government directly, but universities may transfer this cost to students or employers.
What is the purpose of this fee?
DHS argues that the fee will encourage universities to more carefully monitor when introducing students for OPT, reduce fraud and "visa mill" operations, and ensure OPT delivers genuine educational value.
However, the collected fees will go to the U.S. Treasury rather than be used for fraud prevention—a point of contention.
When will this fee take effect?
No confirmed date yet. The proposal must go through a public comment period, and current OPT continues under existing rules. Public comments are open until September 11, 2026.
If DHS approves the final rule, it will take effect 60 days after publication in the Federal Register.
What risks should you be aware of?
Risk 1: Universities may refuse to sponsor OPT
The high fee could lead universities to decline payment, or transfer costs to students and employers, reducing OPT access.
Risk 2: Legal challenges
This rule will face legal challenges after DHS approval. In June 2026, a federal court rejected the Trump administration's proposed $100,000 H-1B fee, so OPT could face a similar situation.
Risk 3: International students may be affected
If this fee takes effect, U.S. universities with large international student populations will have to decide: pay the high fee or limit OPT sponsorship. This could directly impact post-graduation work opportunities for international students.
What should students do now?
- If currently enrolled: Continue under the current OPT rules. The new fee is not yet in effect.
- If graduating soon: Ask your university about their plans if the fee is approved. Some schools may decide to support students; others may transfer costs.
- If pursuing a green card: OPT remains an important pathway to maintain status and gain work experience. Prepare financially in case the fee is implemented.
How is this different from H-1B?
The OPT fee is similar to the $100,000 H-1B fee the Trump administration proposed. Both aim to "protect American workers," but in practice they increase costs for universities and employers, potentially reducing the number of international students and skilled workers.
