India, Oct. 8 -- The US Department of Homeland Security has proposed a $70,000 fee for initial Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 international students, along with another $30,000 fee for subsequent OPT, in a major proposed overhaul of the post-study work program.

The proposal, issued by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, would require Student and Exchange Visitor Program-certified schools to pay the fees when recommending F-1 students for OPT.

DHS says the move is intended to combat fraud, strengthen the integrity of the immigration system and protect US workers. The full DHS proposed rule sets out the proposed fee structure and its potential impact on international students and US institutions.

Under the proposal, school...