$100k H-1B Fee + $250 Student Fee: What It Means for You
For many international students, studying in the United States is not just about earning a degree; it’s also about the possibility of working there after graduation. Parents often view this as part of the “return on investment” of paying for an American education. But recent changes to US visa fees, especially for the work visa known as the H-1B, have raised big questions about whether that pathway will remain as open or affordable as before.
This blog breaks down what these new fees are, why they matter, and what they could mean for high school students considering US universities. We’ll keep it simple, so both students and parents can follow along.
What’s Changing?
Here are the biggest updates that went into effect in September 2025:
$100,000 Fee for New H-1B Applications
Employers who want to hire a worker from outside the US under the H-1B program must now pay an extra $100,000 fee.
This does not apply to renewals or to those who are already in the US on a H-1B visa.
New Visa Integrity Fee – $250
Every nonimmigrant visa applicant (including F-1 student visas) must pay a new $250 “Visa Integrity Fee.”
This is on top of the standard visa application and SEVIS fees that students already pay.
Other Updates
Some students and workers may no longer qualify for interview waivers at US consulates, meaning more will have to attend in-person interviews.
A small new fee (~$24) will be charged for I-94 records, which track arrivals and departures.
Why This Matters for Students and Parents
If you’re thinking about studying in the US, here’s what these changes mean:
More Costs Up Front
Applying for a US student visa will now cost more, and families should budget for the additional $250 fee. While this may not seem like a huge increase compared to tuition, it adds to the long list of expenses.Harder to Get Sponsored for Jobs
The $100,000 fee makes it much more expensive for companies to hire new H-1B workers from abroad. This means fewer employers may be willing to sponsor international graduates, especially for entry-level jobs. Large companies may still pay, but smaller firms and startups might back away.Less Job Security After Graduation
Many students come to the US hoping to stay after graduation through programs like OPT (Optional Practical Training) and then the H-1B. With the new fees, fewer students may be offered long-term sponsorship, making the path less predictable.Impact on College Choices
Since working in the US after graduation is now riskier, some students may decide that universities in Canada, the UK, or Australia (which have clearer post-study work options) are a safer investment. US schools may respond with more scholarships or support to keep attracting students.
What Students and Families Can Do
If you’re in high school now and planning ahead:
Choose Your Field Wisely
Some industries (like technology, engineering, and healthcare) are more likely to sponsor international workers despite the costs.Look for Universities with Strong Career Services
Schools that have good connections with employers and strong international student offices can help graduates find opportunities that fit the new rules.Plan Your Budget Realistically
Add the new visa fees to your cost calculations so there are no surprises.Stay Informed
Visa policies in the US can change quickly. Keep checking with official government websites or your future university’s international office for updates.
The United States is still home to many of the world’s top universities, and a degree from a US institution remains highly respected worldwide. But families need to be aware that the path to working in the US after graduation has become more expensive and less certain.
For high school students dreaming of studying in America, this doesn’t mean giving up on that goal. It does mean making careful choices about which universities to apply to, which programs to pursue, and how to plan financially so that the investment in an American education pays off no matter where your career takes you.