US Proposes $70,000 Fee on Schools for Student Work Program
The Department of Homeland Security proposed a new fee on Wednesday. Schools would pay $70,000 for a student's first recommendation.
The recommendation is for Optional Practical Training. Later recommendations would cost schools $30,000.
The program is for F-1 visa holders in the United States. It lets students work in jobs related to their major.
They can work before or after their studies. Graduates in science, technology, engineering and math may get two more years.
The department says schools could pass costs to students or employers. It called the program “a pipeline for cheap foreign labor.” The international education group NAFSA says the program gives hands-on experience.
It also says the program helps fill labor shortages in those fields. The proposal is not final. The public has 60 days to comment.
Key Terms 3
- Optional Practical Training A program that lets international students work in the United States.
- F-1 visa A visa for international students who study full time in the United States.
- NAFSA A group that supports international education and exchange.