The Department of Homeland Security on Wednesday proposed new fees for international students seeking work authorization through the Optional Practical Training program, which permits work related to their field of study during or after school.
PBS reported that the proposed rule would require schools to pay $70,000 for each participating student. Fox News and the New York Post reported that F-1 visa holders would pay $70,000 for an initial authorization and $30,000 for a later extension. DHS said the proposal was intended to reduce cheap labor entering the United States. A department spokesperson said OPT was not intended to be a route into the U.S. workforce.
Students generally may work for one year after graduating under OPT, while some science, technology, engineering and math majors may receive two additional years, according to PBS. The fees remain a proposal.