DHS proposes $70,000 fee per F-1 student for first OPT recommendation

DHS filed an Optional Practical Training Fees proposal on Oct 7, 2026 (Federal Register Oct 8): universities would pay $70,000 to DHS before recommending a student for a first OPT, and $30,000 for later OPT including STEM extensions. Schools may pass the cost to students or employers. About 143,740 Indian students were on OPT in 2024-25. The fee is tied to the SEVIS recommendation and is non-refundable once the work permit is issued. Proposal stage only, not final. Source: https://collegedunia.com/usa/news/us-proposes-usd-70000-fee-per-f1-student-for-first-opt-recommendation

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