What’s Happening?

On October 8, 2026 the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a proposed rule that would impose significant new fees on Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students: 

• $70,000 for an initial OPT recommendation  

• $30,000 for subsequent OPT recommendations, including STEM OPT extensions. 

As an initial matter it is important to clarify that these fees are not currently in effect, and nothing changes for F-1 students or employers currently on or applying for OPT.

Before the rule can take effect, DHS must complete the federal rulemaking process and issue a final rule before the fees could take effect. Under the proposal, any final rule would become effective 60 days after publication, with the new fees applying to DSO recommendations dated on or after the effective date. 

If finalized substantially as proposed, however, the rule could dramatically alter the economics of OPT for students, universities, and U.S. employers that rely on international graduates.