The American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) joined a coalition of 57 organizations representing the scientific community, higher education, business, and workforce sectors in urging the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to withdraw its proposed fee increases for the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program.
In joint comments submitted to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the organizations warned that the proposed feesâ$70,000 for an initial OPT participant and $30,000 for subsequent participation, including STEM OPTâwould make it prohibitively expensive for many employers, universities, and students to participate in the program. The coalition argued that the increases would discourage international students from studying in the United States and make it more difficult for universities, research institutions, and businesses to recruit and retain early-career scientific and technical talent.
The comments emphasized that international students make substantial contributions to U.S. research, innovation, and economic growth, noting that they account for 46 percent of graduates from U.S. STEM masterâs programs and 45 percent of STEM doctoral programs. The organizations also questioned DHSâs assessment of the proposalâs economic effects, arguing that it fails to adequately account for declines in OPT participation and international student enrollment. They urged DHS to withdraw the proposed rule and consider less burdensome alternatives to ensure the integrity of the OPT program.
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