How would the $70,000 fee on international students working in the US impact schools and grads? 2 lawyer...

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Financial Intelligence • Markets • World News • Independent Analysis
Published: 2026-10-10 • Permanent link

Rumors have been swirling about the potential implementation of a $70,000 fee on international students working in the US, sparking widespread concern among educational institutions and policymakers. The proposed rule, announced by the Trump administration, would significantly impact the OPT (Optional Practical Training) program, which allows international students to gain work experience in their field. Several prominent universities have already expressed their opposition to the plan, citing the potential financial burden on students and the long-term implications for their career prospects.

Economists warn that the introduction of such a fee could have far-reaching consequences for the US economy, particularly in the fields of technology and healthcare. With many international students opting to pursue higher education in the US, the influx of skilled workers could be severely disrupted, leading to a shortage of talent in critical industries. Furthermore, the financial strain on students could deter many from pursuing higher education altogether, resulting in a loss of talent and intellectual capital.

Industry experts point to the OPT program's origins as a way to address concerns about the brain drain of international students after their studies. Since its inception in the 1970s, the program has provided a vital pathway for international students to gain work experience in the US, ultimately contributing to the country's economic growth and competitiveness. However, the proposed fee could be seen as a misguided attempt to address concerns about the program's costs, rather than finding more effective solutions.

As the proposal moves forward, policymakers will need to carefully consider the potential risks and opportunities associated with the $70,000 fee. With the 2020 US presidential election looming, the issue has taken on a new level of importance, with some lawmakers already calling for the proposal to be scrapped. Others, however, argue that the fee is a necessary step to ensure the long-term sustainability of the OPT program and the US education system as a whole.