Critics of the proposed $100,000 fee warn that it would create an insurmountable barrier for many international students seeking to work in the United States after graduation. They argue that the exorbitant cost penalizes talented individuals who contribute positively to the economy, innovation, and cultural exchange.
For Indian and other international students, who often already face substantial financial burdens, this fee could effectively shut down valuable pathways to gain work experience and stay employed in the U.S. This not only affects individuals’ careers but also has broader repercussions for businesses that depend on skilled graduates, especially in technology and research fields.
Opponents caution that discouraging participation in post-study work programs undermines the United States’ ability to attract and retain global talent. This reduction in skilled immigration risks slowing innovation and economic competitiveness, as foreign graduates frequently fill specialized roles where domestic talent is insufficient.
Moreover, the high fee could encourage some to seek less transparent or riskier employment alternatives, defeating the policy’s intended goals. Critics advocate for balanced reforms that maintain fair regulation without pricing out valuable contributors or compromising the country’s reputation as a destination for international education and professional growth.