Summary of this article
Proposed work authorisation fee is USD 70,000
Indian graduates could face higher post-study costs
Fee has not yet been implemented
The United States is planning to charge a fee of USD 70,000 for its international students seeking work after they complete their studies. This fee is just for the authorisation to work in the States, not to have permanent residency.
This charge can increase the cost of pursuing higher education and employment opportunities in the country. This additional charge would also create additional financial challenges for foreign graduates who rely on post-study employment to gain professional experience, while also recovering education expenses in the US.
This decision can influence the decisions of prospective students who are considering the opportunity to study in the US.
Proposed Fee Increases Costs
International students who are in the US already face hardships related to their financing and expenses even before they reach the US, from the Visa fees, tuition, accommodation, health insurance and then the day-to-day costs of living. Any additional fees that total USD 70,000, which is nearly Rs 66 lakh, can make the transition from higher education to employment even more expensive than it already is.
For many graduates whose educational funding was reliant on education loans or family savings, fulfilling this demand is out of the question. Overseas education, that too in the US, has always been seen as a way to upgrade one's professional standing. It is a chance to gain industry experience, develop professional networks and improve one's prospects of securing long-term employment overseas.
Businesses that are set in sectors like tech, engineering, healthcare, and research are largely dependent on international talent to fill these positions.
How This Impacts Indian Students?
Indian students could be concerned about the proposal, given the fact that India is a major source of international students in the US. According to Reuters, many Indian students pursue STEM courses with post-study employment being an important part of their career plans.
A fee of USD 70,000 can substantially alter the financial calculations for students who plan to remain in the US after graduation. It can also be a catalyst in encouraging students to look for other destinations.
The proposed measure would need to proceed through the applicable regulatory process before it becomes final. Its implementation, however, would depend on the final provisions.
However, this fee hasn't been levied as of now; it would need to proceed through the applicable regulatory process before becoming final.
Its implementation would depend on the final provisions and any legal challenges. If this fee is approved and implemented, the measure can change how international students view the US as an opportunity hub.
