WASHINGTON — The Department of Homeland Security on Wednesday, Oct. 7, proposed charging colleges $70,000 for every international student who joins the Optional Practical Training program, the latest Trump administration move to curb foreign enrollment, The Associated Press reported via KTAR News.
OPT lets international students work in jobs tied to their field of study during or after school, generally for one year, with up to two more years for some science, technology, engineering and math graduates. Under the proposal, schools would pay $70,000 for each initial application and $30,000 for each renewal.
DHS described the fee as a response to fraud and abuse, calling the program a “pipeline for cheap foreign labor.” Fanta Aw, CEO of NAFSA: Association of International Educators, said driving away international students would hurt American innovation and economic growth.
The rule faces a 60-day public comment period before it can be finalized and could draw legal challenges from universities or business groups. Arizona’s universities, including ASU, enroll thousands of international students.
Sources: Associated Press via KTAR News. Thee Arizona Times uses AI-assisted reporting reviewed against the sources listed.
Photo: Marco Almbauer / Public domain via Wikimedia Commons.
