The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has proposed requiring colleges and universities to pay a $70,000 fee for each international student’s initial participation in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, plus $30,000 for every renewal.
The proposal, announced under President Donald Trump’s administration, forms part of broader efforts to tighten rules on foreign students and immigration.
OPT currently lets eligible F-1 visa students gain temporary, field-related work experience in the United States—typically up to 12 months after graduation, with an additional 24 months available for those in qualifying STEM fields.
Schools would have to pay the fee before recommending a student for OPT, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services could deny work authorization if payment is not made.
DHS has said the high cost is intended to curb what it calls fraud and abuse, limit use of the program as a pathway into the U.S. workforce, and protect American jobs.
Officials described OPT as having become a “pipeline for cheap foreign labor” and argued the fees would push schools to recommend only the most promising students.
Critics warn the change would hit Nigerian and other international students hard, many of whom rely on OPT for practical experience after completing their studies.
American universities, which draw significant tuition revenue from overseas students (including large numbers from Nigeria), and tech firms that recruit international graduates for specialized roles could also feel the impact.
Fanta Aw, CEO of NAFSA: Association of International Educators, said the program helps fill labor shortages in high-demand STEM fields and that driving away international talent would harm U.S. innovation, economic growth, and global competitiveness.
The public has 60 days to comment on the proposed rule. If finalized, the fees would take effect 60 days after publication and apply to new recommendations.
Legal challenges from higher-education and business groups are widely expected.
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