On October 8, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced a proposed rule, Optional Practical Training Fees, that would require a $70,000 fee for an F-1 student’s initial OPT period and $30,000 for subsequent OPT periods, including STEM OPT extensions. OPT provides eligible F-1 students with temporary employment authorization related to their field of study.
This is a proposed rule, not a final rule, and these fees are not in effect. The proposed rule does not change existing OPT regulations or authorization. F-1 students should continue following all current OPT regulations, USCIS application fees, timelines, etc.
The federal government is accepting public comments on the proposed rule changes until November 9, 2026. International Student Services (ISS) is actively reviewing this proposal. We are working together with university leadership, UW Bothell, UW Tacoma, UW International English Language Programs, campus partners, our professional and national organizations such as NAFSA, The President’s Alliance of Higher Ed and Immigration, and the Association of American Universities (AAU) to understand the impacts of the proposal and to develop a coordinated institutional response.
Individuals, including campus partners, faculty, staff, and students, may submit their own personal feedback on the proposed rule during the public comment period. All submitted comments are public record and will be visible to the public. All submitted comments will be reviewed before DHS publishes a final rule.
We recognize that news about this federal government OPT fee proposal may create concern and uncertainty. We want to reassure you that the introduction of this proposed rule does not change any of the current processes, and we cannot speculate when or even if this proposal will be finalized. Students should continue to pursue your educational journey and plan for opportunities that are available to you under F-1 federal regulations that are currently in effect.
Our international students are valued members of the UW campus community. ISS will continue to monitor any regulatory changes and keep our community informed of any impact to international students enrolled at University of Washington.