On October 8, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a proposed rule that would establish new fees for Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students. No action is required from students at this time based on the proposed rule.
If the proposed rule is enacted, Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified institutions would be required to provide a $70,000 fee for a student's initial OPT and a $30,000 fee for any subsequent OPT, including STEM OPT extension. The proposed fee would be triggered by a DSO recommendation dated on or after the effective date of a future final rule.
This is a proposed rule that is not currently in effect. There are no changes to the OPT application process or fees at this time. The final rule, if enacted, may differ from this proposed rule. ISSO is monitoring developments closely and will provide updates on the OPT portion of ISSO’s website when additional information becomes available, and if the rule is to go into effect.
Students should continue to follow the current OPT application process. Students may continue to apply for OPT up to 90 days in advance if they meet the eligibility criteria. To learn more about when students are eligible to apply for OPT, please visit the pre-completion OPT, post-completion OPT, and STEM OPT webpages.
ISSO is reviewing the proposed rule and its potential implications for Columbia and our international students. ISSO will continue to monitor the federal rulemaking process and provide timely updates and guidance.
