What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
For thousands of Indian students who pursue higher education in the United States, Optional Practical Training, or OPT, is a critical bridge between their studies and a professional career. It is a program that allows international students holding F-1
visas to gain up to 12 months of temporary employment directly related to their major field of study. For those in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, this period can be extended by an additional 24 months. This hands-on experience is invaluable, allowing graduates to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting, build a professional network, and enhance their resumes. For many, it's a primary reason for choosing to study in the US over other countries, as it provides a clear pathway to begin their careers before potentially returning home or applying for other work visas like the H-1B.
The Source of Confusion: A $100,000 Fee Proposal
The current turmoil stems from recent reports that the US administration is considering a staggering new fee for the OPT program—potentially as high as $100,000. According to news outlets, this proposal is being discussed within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) but is not yet a final policy. A DHS spokesperson noted that no policy should be considered final until it is formally announced. It is unclear if the student or their employer would be responsible for paying such a fee. This proposal has understandably sent shockwaves through the international student community, as a fee of this magnitude would effectively make the OPT program inaccessible for nearly everyone. The news comes on the heels of other recent changes impacting F-1 visa holders, including a rule that eliminates 'duration of status' and requires students to apply for extensions to stay beyond a fixed four-year period.
What Are the Current OPT Fees?
It is crucial for students to distinguish between the rumoured proposal and the actual fees currently in effect. As of August 2026, the standard filing fee for Form I-765, the application for employment authorization, is between $470 and $520, depending on whether it is filed electronically or via paper. This is a far cry from the rumoured six-figure sum. There are also optional fees for services like Premium Processing, which expedites the review of an application. As of March 2026, the fee for premium processing an I-765 application for OPT is $1,780. This optional service guarantees USCIS will take action on a case within 30 days. It's important not to confuse these existing, official fees with the unconfirmed proposal causing the current alarm.
Why This Proposal is Causing Alarm
Even though the $100,000 fee is just a proposal under discussion, its mere existence is a source of significant stress. Critics argue that such a policy would decimate the pipeline of international talent into the U.S. workforce, harming American innovation and competitiveness. Many universities, which rely on international student tuition, have expressed deep concern. For students from India, who made up nearly half of all OPT participants in the 2024-25 academic year, the impact would be particularly devastating. Legal experts have also questioned the legality of such a fee, pointing out that a similar $100,000 fee for H-1B visas was recently struck down by a federal court. However, even if the proposal never becomes law, the uncertainty it creates can damage the appeal of the US as a study destination.
What Should Students Do Now?
In the face of this uncertainty, the best course of action is to focus on official information and current regulations. Do not make any decisions based on rumours. The $100,000 fee is not in effect. Students preparing to apply for OPT should proceed based on the current, official USCIS fee schedule for the I-765 application. Always check the official USCIS website for the most up-to-date fee amounts and filing instructions before submitting any application. If an application is mailed with an incorrect fee, it will be rejected. For graduates with imminent job start dates, premium processing remains an option, but it comes at a significant cost. The most prudent approach is to stay informed through university international student offices and official government sources rather than social media speculation.
