The Donald Trump administration is considering a proposal that could require international students to pay a $100,000 fee if they want to work in the United States (US) after completing their studies, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. If introduced, the move could have a major impact on more than 360,000 Indian students currently studying in the US.
The proposal is linked to the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme, which allows eligible international students to gain work experience in the US after graduating.
Proposed fee linked to OPT programme
As per a report by The Wall Street Journal, the proposed charge would be attached to the Optional Practical Training programme. Under the existing system, OPT enables international graduates to work in the US for one to three years, depending on the course they have completed.
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The report also said that the proposal is currently being examined by the Department of Homeland Security. However, it remains uncertain whether the White House has formally backed the idea.
Uncertainty over who would have to pay
Several details of the proposal are yet to be finalised. It is still unclear which categories of international students would be required to pay the proposed fee if it is approved.
Officials have not yet clarified how the policy would be implemented or whether any exemptions would be considered.
Indian students among those likely to be affected
India is one of the largest sources of international students in the United States. With more than 360,000 Indian students currently enrolled in US educational institutions, any change to the OPT programme could directly affect a large number of graduates planning to gain work experience after completing their degrees.
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The report mentioned that the proposed $100,000 fee could become “a significant deterrent to foreign students looking to study and subsequently work in the US.”
At present, the proposal remains under consideration, and no final decision has been announced by the US government. Further clarity is expected if the Department of Homeland Security or the White House provides an official update.
FAQs:
What is the US Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme?
OPT allows eligible international students to work in the US for one to three years after graduation, depending on their course.
Will Indian students be affected by the proposed $100,000 US work fee?
If approved, the proposal could impact more than 360,000 Indian students studying in the US who plan o work after graduation.
