US May Charge International Students $100,000 to Work After Graduation

The administration of US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering a proposal that could make it significantly more difficult for international students to work in the United States after completing their studies. A report from The Wall Street Journal has been circulating about a proposal to charge students $100,000 to take part in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program.

While the proposal has not yet been officially announced, it has already raised alarm among students and education experts who worry that it might deter thousands of overseas students from coming to the United States for higher education.

What Is the OPT Program?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a period of temporary employment that provides a chance for eligible international students to stay in the United States for up to 12 months after graduation. For students who graduate from a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) area program, their work authorization is extended for an additional 24 months.

The OPT program is one of the most significant avenues for international students to acquire work-related experience and ultimately secure a work visa in the United States.

Why Is the Trump Administration Considering the Fee?

The report says the Trump administration suspects some have abused the OPT program by securing visas or remaining in the U.S. past their authorized time.

The proposed $100,000 OPT fee is part of a wider initiative to reduce immigration and strengthen the oversight of temporary work and study programs.

The administration also tried to impose a $100,000 fee on new work visa applicants, which was shot down by a US federal appeals court recently.

Impact on International Students

If the proposal is approved, it will be one of the largest obstacles for international students in the United States. The experts in the education field are warning that the fee could make it difficult for many students to decide on their study destination.

Other nations like the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, and Australia might also be more appealing choices because of their relatively easier post-study jobs. Even more uncertainty may be existing for students already attending US universities.

Uncertainty Remains

The proposal is pending, no official decision has yet been made. But the announced plan has already triggered concerns among international education experts, and international universities are keeping a close watch on what may happen in the future and how it could impact the chances of post-graduation employment opportunities in the U.S.