Trump administration mulls $100,000 fee for foreign graduates to work in the U.S.

Internal deliberations within the Trump administration are reportedly weighing a $100,000 fee for foreign students seeking to remain in the United States after graduation through the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. The proposal, disclosed by a person familiar with the discussions who asked to remain unnamed, targets a visa extension that allows graduates to acquire relevant work experience. While a White House official declined to say a policy shift is imminent, they also did not dismiss the possibility that the fee is under review.

OPT currently supports nearly 300,000 participants, roughly 25% of the nation’s international student body, according to the Institute of International Education. Critics argue the fee would effectively bar many from accessing the program, undermining a key pipeline for skilled talent. Administration officials have previously criticized OPT for alleged visa fraud and overstays, prompting the current scrutiny.