FASEB Urges Withdrawal of Proposed OPT Fees

Friday, October 30, 2026
FASEB submitted comments to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) opposing proposed Optional Practical Training (OPT) fees. The proposal would require schools to pay $70,000 for an initial OPT recommendation and $30,000 for subsequent recommendations, including STEM OPT extensions. FASEB warned that these fees could disrupt biomedical research, restrict training opportunities, and undermine the nation’s ability to retain scientists educated at U.S. institutions. The comments urge DHS to withdraw the proposal and address fraud through targeted oversight. If DHS proceeds, FASEB recommends exemptions for training at universities and nonprofit research organizations and protections for current students and OPT participants.