First, What Is the OPT Program?
Before diving into fees, it’s important to understand what Optional Practical Training (OPT) is. It's not a separate visa, but a key benefit of the F-1 student visa. OPT allows international students who have graduated from US universities to work for a period
of time in a job directly related to their field of study. For most graduates, this period is 12 months. However, for those in certain Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields, it can be extended by an additional 24 months. For decades, OPT has been a critical pathway for Indian students to gain valuable international work experience, build their resumes, and potentially transition to other long-term work visas like the H-1B.
The Origin of the $100,000 Figure
Recent news reports have been dominated by discussions of a potential $100,000 fee associated with OPT. These reports, emerging in late July and early August 2026, suggest the Trump administration is considering this drastic measure. However, it is crucial to understand that as of mid-August 2026, this is only a proposal under internal discussion within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It is not an official rule, nor has it been formally implemented. Details about who would pay it, whether it would apply to all students, and if exemptions would exist remain unknown. This idea is part of a broader push to increase financial barriers within the legal immigration system and has been met with significant concern from universities and employers who fear it would drive talent to other countries.
Is It a Fee or a Bond?
The $100,000 figure is often conflated with other proposed immigration changes, causing confusion. Some reports refer to it as a fee, while others mention a financial bond. A fee is a non-refundable charge for a service. A bond, on the other hand, is a refundable deposit designed to ensure compliance with visa rules, such as departing the country on time. The US government has explored bond programs for other visa categories to address overstay rates. For instance, a pilot program requiring bonds of up to $15,000 for tourist and business visas from certain countries has been discussed. Separately, a $100,000 bond for certain green card applicants has also been reported as being under consideration. The OPT proposal appears to be a distinct idea, but its structure as a fee or bond has not been clarified. Legal experts have already questioned whether the administration has the authority to impose such a large fee without congressional approval.
What Are the Actual Fee Increases?
While the $100,000 figure remains a speculative proposal, other concrete fee increases for students and immigrants are happening. The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) I-901 fee, which funds the system that tracks students, currently stands at $350 for F-1 students. The visa application fee (DS-160) is $185. Additionally, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) regularly adjusts its fees. For example, a final rule effective March 1, 2026, increased the fee for premium processing (Form I-907) for OPT applications from $1,685 to $1,780 to account for inflation. Other application fees, like those for naturalization (Form N-400), have also seen significant proposed hikes. These are real, smaller increases that add to the cost of studying and working in the US, but they are nowhere near the rumored $100,000.
What Happens Next for Indian Students?
For now, nothing has changed regarding a $100,000 OPT fee. Students should not panic or alter their plans based on these reports alone. The current OPT rules and fees (aside from minor inflation-based adjustments) remain in effect. However, the proposal signals a potential shift in policy aimed at making post-graduation work more difficult. Prospective and current students should continue to monitor official sources like the DHS and USCIS websites for any formal announcements. If the administration proceeds with a formal proposal, it would have to go through a public comment period before becoming a final rule, a process that can take many months and often faces legal challenges.
