On October 8, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a proposed rule (full text) that, if finalized, would create new fees for each application for F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) employment authorization.
Note: this is only a proposed rule and there is nothing for you to do at this time. Below is more information.
What does this mean?
DHS is proposing that higher education institutions recommending F-1 OPT pay an initial US$70,000 fee for each international student ( Pre-Completion OPT or Post-Completion OPT). A US$30,000 fee would be required for any subsequent OPT recommendations for that student (Pre-Completion OPT, Post-Completion OPT, or STEM OPT Extension). The fees would have to be paid by the F-1 sponsoring institution at the time the designated school official issues the new Form I-20 with recommendation for OPT.
What does this mean for international students and scholars?
This is only a proposed rule and no action is necessary at this time. For this proposal to take effect, it would need to be published as an “interim final” or “final” rule, following a period of public comment and in accordance with formal rulemaking procedures.
What is MIT doing in response?
The International Students Office (ISO) and International Scholars Office (ISchO) are currently working closely with the MIT Washington Office, Government Relations, and other key staff to review details of the proposed rule.
When will more be known?
MIT is monitoring the proposal closely and will keep the community updated. Any new information will be posted on the Major Immigration Alerts & Updates webpage and the ISchO News page and communicated via email.