Federal Government Proposes New Rules and Fees for International Students in U.S.

The federal government is proposing new policies that would significantly impact international students, including a plan to impose substantial fees for temporary work in the U.S. after graduation. This initiative, which critics warn could deter foreign students, follows a previous attempt to alter requirements for optional practical training (OPT) programs, a move that was deemed illegal by several higher education organizations. Under the proposed changes, an F-1 student starting OPT could face a $70,000 fee, with STEM OPT extensions potentially costing $30,000.