OPT, CPT & Work Authorization for International Students in the U.S.

What is CPT, and Who Can Apply?

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a type of work authorization for F-1 visa holders in the U.S., which allows international students to gain practical experience related to their major field of study while still enrolled in their academic program.

CPT is designed to help students apply the knowledge gained in the classroom to real-world settings.

Who Can Apply for CPT?

To apply for CPT, F-1 students must meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Valid F-1 Status: You must be in the U.S. on an F-1 visa and maintaining good standing with your school.

2. Completed One Academic Year: Students must have completed at least one academic year of full-time study before applying for CPT. This requirement may not apply to certain programs like graduate-level courses that require immediate work experience.

3. Enrollment in a Program Requiring CPT: The work experience gained through CPT must be directly related to the student’s field of study. Students must also be enrolled in a degree program that has an established CPT policy.

4. CPT Approved by Designated School Official (DSO): CPT must be authorized by your school’s Designated School Official (DSO), who will issue the necessary documents for CPT approval.

5. Academic Credits: CPT is generally available only for students who can earn academic credits for their work, and the work must be a formal part of their curriculum.

CPT can be a valuable opportunity for students to gain practical work experience and build a network within their field, making it easier to transition into full-time employment after graduation.

However, it’s crucial to remember that excessive use of CPT, especially full-time CPT during the academic year, could impact your eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT) later on.

Types of CPT: Full-Time vs. Part-Time

CPT can be classified into two types:

Full-Time CPT and Part-Time CPT. Each type has its own set of rules and conditions, depending on the student’s academic program and work situation.

Part-time CPT:

Part-Time CPT refers to a work authorization that allows students to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic semester while they are enrolled full-time in their studies.

Eligibility: Part-time CPT is available to students who are enrolled in at least a half-time course load. It is commonly used during the academic year, when students are attending classes.

When to Apply: Part-time CPT is generally used during the fall and spring semesters while students are taking classes. Students can apply for it as long as their academic program allows.

Impact on OPT: One of the key benefits of part-time CPT is that it does not impact your eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows you to work full-time after graduation. However, if you accumulate more than 12 months of full-time CPT, it will make you ineligible for OPT.

Example: A student working as a part-time research assistant while attending classes full-time during the semester.

Full-time CPT:

Full-Time CPT allows students to work more than 20 hours per week, typically during academic breaks like summer, or if the students program mandates full-time work experience.

Eligibility: Full-time CPT is available to students during scheduled school breaks (e.g., summer vacation) or if the students program requires full-time work experience as part of the degree requirements.

When to Apply: Full-time CPT is usually granted during summer breaks or other periods when students do not have a full course load. It can also be used if your degree program requires an internship or co-op as part of your curriculum.

Impact on OPT: If you use full-time CPT for more than 12 months, you will lose eligibility for OPT. This is because long-term full-time CPT use may indicate that you are spending a significant portion of your academic program in practical training, which could affect your OPT application.

Example: A student doing a full-time internship over the summer or as a part of a required co-op program during the academic year.

Key Differences Between Part-Time and Full-Time CPT

CPT Rules, Duration, and Limitations

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows international students on an F-1 visa to gain practical work experience in the U.S. related to their field of study. While CPT can provide excellent opportunities for students, there are certain rules, duration limits, and other important factors that you need to be aware of to ensure compliance.

CPT Rules

• Eligibility Requirements:

  • Enrollment in Full-Time Study: You must be enrolled in a full-time program at a U.S. institution and have completed at least one academic year of study (two semesters or three quarters).

  • Related to Your Field of Study: The work must be directly related to your major or course of study.

  • Authorized by Your Designated School Official (DSO): You must obtain authorization from your school’s International Student Office and have CPT listed on your Form I-20 before starting employment.

  • Course Credit Requirement: In most cases, students must register for a course (internship, practicum, etc.) in order to participate in CPT. This course must be a part of your degree program.

• Types of Employment:

  • Full-time CPT: Typically for students on summer breaks or during academic breaks.

  • Part-time CPT: During the academic semester, which allows you to work up to 20 hours per week.

CPT Duration

• Part-Time CPT:

  You can work part-time (20 hours or less per week) during the academic semester, but you must be enrolled as a full-time student.

• Full-Time CPT:

  You may work full-time (over 20 hours per week) during breaks or when you are not taking academic classes.

• Limits:

  • You can use CPT for up to 12 months during your program of study.

  • If you use CPT for more than 12 months full-time, you lose eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT).

CPT Limitations

• No Unauthorized Employment:

  All employment under CPT must be authorized and registered with your school’s DSO. Unauthorized employment can result in severe immigration consequences, including the loss of your F-1 status.

• OPT Eligibility:

  If you accumulate more than 12 months of full-time CPT, you will not be eligible for OPT (Optional Practical Training) after graduation.

• Employer and Job Role:

  The employer and job role must be related directly to your major, and you cannot use CPT for self-employment or as a freelance worker.

• Academic Restrictions:

  CPT must be a mandatory part of your academic program or be counted for credit. It cannot be used solely as a job or career opportunity without an educational purpose.

What is OPT, and Who is Eligible?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a type of work authorization for international students in the U.S. on F-1 visas. It allows students to work in the U.S. in a job related to their major field of study. OPT provides an opportunity for students to gain practical experience and apply the skills they have learned in their academic programs in a real-world environment.

What is OPT?

• Duration:

  • OPT allows for a maximum of 12 months of work authorization during the duration of the student’s academic program.

  • STEM OPT Extension: Students who graduate with a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) may be eligible for a 24-month extension, allowing them to work for up to 36 months in total.

• Full-Time and Part-Time:

  Students can work full-time (more than 20 hours per week) during OPT. However, during the academic semester, students can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) and full-time during breaks or after graduation.

• Work Requirements:

  The job must be directly related to the student’s major field of study. It should provide practical experience that supports the student’s academic background.

Who is Eligible for OPT?

• F-1 Visa Holders:

  Only students on F-1 visas are eligible for OPT. You must have maintained your F-1 status and been enrolled in a U.S. institution for at least one full academic year (two semesters or three quarters) to apply for OPT.

• Degree Completion:

  You must be completing a program of study at a recognized U.S. institution. OPT is available before or after you complete your academic program (pre-completion or post-completion OPT).

• Application Window:

  You must apply for OPT before completing your degree. You can apply for pre-completion OPT as early as 90 days before your program end date, and for post-completion OPT, you can apply up to 90 days before completing your degree but no later than 60 days after your program end date.

• STEM Students:

  Students graduating in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) can apply for a 24-month OPT extension after the initial 12 months of regular OPT.

Key Requirements:

• Approval from Designated School Official (DSO):

  Your DSO must recommend your OPT on your I-20 form before you can apply.

• Application Process:

  You must submit your OPT application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) along with the required forms, documents, and fees.

• Timing:

  Apply for OPT 90 days before you finish your program or no later than 60 days after your program end date.

Types of OPT: Pre-Completion and Post-Completion

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is divided into two main types based on the timing of employment in relation to a student’s academic program: Pre-Completion OPT and Post-Completion OPT. Both types allow F-1 students to gain work experience in the U.S. directly related to their field of study, but they have different rules and eligibility criteria.

Pre-Completion OPT:

• Definition:

  Pre-Completion OPT refers to work authorization granted before a student completes their academic program. It allows students to work part-time or full-time while they are still enrolled in school.

• Eligibility:

  • You must be an F-1 student who has completed one academic year of study.

  • The work you do must be directly related to your field of study.

• Duration:

  • You can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the academic semester.

  • During breaks (such as summer), you can work full-time (more than 20 hours per week).

  • Pre-Completion OPT time is deducted from the total 12-month OPT allowance. For example, if you use 6 months of Pre-Completion OPT, you will only have 6 months left for Post-Completion OPT.

• Application Timeline:

  • You can apply for Pre-Completion OPT up to 90 days before you want to begin working.

  • Your job must be related to your major, and it must be either part-time during the semester or full-time during vacation periods.

Post-Completion OPT:

• Definition:

  Post-Completion OPT is work authorization that begins after the completion of your degree program. This type of OPT allows you to gain full-time work experience in your field of study after graduation.

• Eligibility:

  • You must be an F-1 student who has completed your degree program or is about to complete it.

  • The work you do must be directly related to your major field of study.

• Duration:

  • You can work full-time after completing your degree program, typically for up to 12 months.

  • If you have a degree in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics), you may be eligible for an additional 24-month extension of your Post-Completion OPT, giving you a total of 36 months of OPT.

• Application Timeline:

  • You can apply for Post-Completion OPT up to 90 days before completing your degree and no later than 60 days after your program completion date.

  • You must also apply for the OPT before the expiration of your F-1 status, which typically ends 60 days after you graduate.

Key Differences Between Pre-Completion and Post-Completion OPT:

STEM OPT Extension (24 Months)

The STEM OPT Extension is an additional 24 months of work authorization granted to F-1 students who have completed a degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) field. This extension allows STEM graduates to work in the U.S. for a total of 36 months under OPT, providing additional time for students to gain practical experience in their field of study.

Eligibility for STEM OPT Extension:

To qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, the following requirements must be met:

• STEM Degree:

  You must have earned a degree in a designated STEM field (e.g., Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Biology, etc.) from a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accredited institution.

• Current OPT Status:

  You must be currently on a valid Post-Completion OPT and working for an employer who participates in the E-Verify program.

• Employer Requirements:

  • Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify, which is an online system that allows businesses to verify the employment eligibility of their employees.

  • The employer must provide you with work directly related to your field of study.

• Timely Application:

  You must apply for the STEM OPT extension before your current Post-Completion OPT expires. The application can be filed up to 90 days before the expiration date of your current OPT.

Key Rules and Conditions:

1. Application Timeline:

   • You must submit the STEM OPT extension application to USCIS before your Post-Completion OPT ends, but no earlier than 90 days before it expires.

   • Your application should include Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), along with supporting documents.

2. Employment Requirements:

   • During the STEM OPT extension period, you must work a minimum of 20 hours per week in a job directly related to your STEM degree.

   • You cannot work more than 90 days of unemployment during the entire 36-month period (including your initial OPT period and the STEM extension).

3. Reporting Requirements:

   • You must report your employment and any changes in your job or address every 6 months to your Designated School Official (DSO).

   • You must also submit an updated Form I-983 (Training Plan for STEM OPT Students) to your DSO.

4. Two STEM OPT Extensions:

   • You are only eligible for one 24-month STEM OPT extension. However, if you complete another STEM degree at a higher level (e.g., a second bachelor’s or a master’s), you may be eligible for an additional STEM OPT extension.

Key Benefits of STEM OPT Extension:

• Additional Time to Gain Experience: The extension provides you with 24 more months to gain professional work experience in the U.S. after completing your degree.

• Enhanced Career Opportunities: The extended time allows you to build connections and skills in the U.S. job market, which can improve your chances of securing long-term employment.

• Flexibility in Job Search: With the extra time, you can explore more career opportunities and gain expertise in your STEM field.

• Employer Support: Many employers are willing to sponsor STEM OPT workers, as they bring valuable skills to the company and contribute to research, development, and innovation.

Common Challenges and Considerations:

• Timely Application: Ensure that you submit your STEM OPT extension application on time to avoid any gaps in employment authorization.

• Employer Eligibility: Make sure your employer is registered with E-Verify and complies with all reporting requirements for the STEM OPT program.

• Maintaining Status: It is essential to report any changes to your employment or address in a timely manner to maintain your visa status during the STEM OPT extension period.

Application Process for OPT

1. Consult with Your Designated School Official (DSO):

   • Schedule an appointment with your DSO to discuss your OPT application.

   • Your DSO will provide you with the necessary guidance and help you fill out the required forms.

   • The DSO will also update your SEVIS record to recommend OPT, which is a crucial part of your application.

2. File Form I-20 (OPT Recommendation):

   • After consulting your DSO, they will issue a new Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) that includes the OPT recommendation.

   • The form will indicate that your DSO has recommended you for OPT.

3. Complete Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization):

   • The next step is to complete Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization). This form is used to request permission from USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) to work in the U.S. under OPT.

   • You will need to answer questions about your background, employment history, and the degree you completed.

   • Be sure to pay the associated application fee when submitting Form I-765.

4. Prepare Required Documents:

   You will need to gather and submit the following documents along with your Form I-765:

   • Form I-20 (issued by your DSO, showing OPT recommendation).

   • Passport-size photos (typically 2x2 inches) as per the U.S. visa specifications.

   • Copy of your passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended OPT period).

   • I-94 record (available online).

   • Form I-765 (completed application).

   • Form G-1145 (e-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance) for receiving updates on your application status via email/SMS.

   • Transcripts and proof of degree completion from your university.

   • Proof of OPT fee payment.

5. Submit Your Application to USCIS:

   • Once you have completed Form I-765 and gathered all necessary documents, submit your application package to USCIS.

   • USCIS allows you to apply up to 90 days before your program end date or after your program end date (but no later than 60 days after graduation).

   • Make sure to send your application to the correct USCIS address.

6. Wait for USCIS Processing:

   • After submission, USCIS will send you a receipt notice confirming that they have received your OPT application.

   • It typically takes about 2-5 months for USCIS to process your OPT application, although it may vary.

   • If USCIS needs more information or clarification, they may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE).

7. Receive the Employment Authorization Document (EAD):

   • If your OPT application is approved, you will receive the EAD (Employment Authorization Document) card.

   • The EAD card will indicate the start and end date of your authorized OPT period, and you can begin working as soon as you receive the card.

   • Do not begin working until you have received your EAD card from USCIS.

8. Report Your Employment to Your DSO:

   • Once you start working, inform your DSO of your employer’s details and the job you are doing. This is required for maintaining your F-1 status during OPT.

   • You must report any changes in your employment (e.g., change of employer, job title, or address) to your DSO within 10 days.

Required Documents for OPT and CPT

When applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT), there are specific documents you need to submit to your Designated School Official (DSO) or USCIS. These documents verify your eligibility and ensure that the work you plan to do aligns with your academic program. Below is a detailed list of the required documents for each program.

Documents Required for OPT Application:

1. Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status):

   • Issued by your Designated School Official (DSO) with the OPT recommendation.

   • Your DSO will update your SEVIS record to reflect the OPT recommendation.

2. Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization):

   • Completed form to request authorization to work in the U.S. during your OPT period.

3. Passport-size Photographs:

   • Typically, 2 passport-style photos (2x2 inches) as per U.S. visa specifications.

   • These photos must be recent (taken within the last 6 months).

4. Copy of Your Passport:

   • A copy of your current, valid passport.

   • Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months after your OPT period ends.

5. Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record):

   • A copy of your most recent I-94 (available online).

   • This form records your entry into the U.S. and your immigration status.

6. Transcripts and Proof of Degree Completion:

   • A copy of your academic transcripts.

   • A letter from your school indicating your expected graduation date or confirmation of degree completion.

7. Form G-1145 (e-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance):

   • This form allows USCIS to send you electronic notifications regarding the status of your application.

8. Visa Fee Payment Receipt:

   • Proof of payment for the OPT application fee. Check USCIS’s website for the most current fee schedule.

9. Additional Documentation (if applicable):

   • Any prior U.S. visa documentation (e.g., if you have been issued a visa or have previously traveled to the U.S.).

   • Any documents related to your current status in the U.S.

Documents Required for CPT Application:

1. Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status):

   • Issued by your Designated School Official (DSO).

   • Your DSO will update your SEVIS record to recommend CPT, and a new Form I-20 with CPT authorization will be issued.

2. CPT Authorization Letter from Your DSO:

   • Written confirmation from your DSO indicating that you are authorized for CPT.

   • This letter should include the details of your CPT employment (e.g., employer name, location, work dates, and job description).

3. Proof of Enrollment in a Course Related to the CPT:

   • You must be enrolled in a course directly related to the work you intend to do during CPT.

   • Your DSO will verify that the course or internship is part of your academic curriculum.

4. Job Offer Letter from Employer:

   • A letter from the employer where you will be working, which includes details about the internship/job, such as:

     • Job title

     • Job description

     • Work start and end dates

     • Employer contact details

5. Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record):

   • A copy of your most recent I-94 form, which is used to track your entry into the U.S.

6. Passport-size Photographs:

   • A recent passport-sized photo (2x2 inches).

7. Proof of Enrollment:

   • A copy of your current school enrollment and status as a full-time student.

8. Any Previous CPT or OPT Records:

   • If you have applied for or used CPT or OPT before, provide the relevant documentation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT), it is crucial to ensure that all documents are complete and accurate. Below are some common mistakes applicants make during the application process and how to avoid them.

1. Missing Deadlines:

• Mistake: Failing to submit your application or supporting documents on time.

• How to Avoid: Stay aware of application deadlines and submit your forms well in advance. For OPT, you can apply up to 90 days before your program end date, but it is ideal to apply early.

2. Incomplete or Incorrect Forms:

• Mistake: Submitting incomplete or inaccurate forms, such as Form I-765 for OPT or Form I-20 for CPT.

• How to Avoid: Double-check every form for accuracy. Ensure that all fields are filled out correctly and completely before submission.

3. Inconsistent Information Across Documents:

• Mistake: Providing conflicting information across documents, such as mismatched dates, job titles, or employer details.

• How to Avoid: Ensure consistency across all documents—Form I-20, job offer letters, and any other supporting documents. Double-check for errors.

4. Incorrectly Filling Out Form I-765 (For OPT):

• Mistake: Not filling out Form I-765 correctly, which is a critical step for OPT approval.

• How to Avoid: Follow the instructions carefully and fill out the form as per your specific situation. Review all the sections, especially the sections regarding your eligibility and work location.

5. Submitting Outdated or Expired Documents:

• Mistake: Submitting expired documents, such as a passport that is valid for less than six months, or outdated financial proof.

• How to Avoid: Ensure all documents, including your passport, are up-to-date. Submit proof of financial support that accurately reflects your current status.

6. Applying for CPT Too Early or Without DSO Authorization:

• Mistake: Starting a job or internship before receiving CPT authorization from your Designated School Official (DSO).

• How to Avoid: Always wait for your DSO’s confirmation and the issuance of an updated Form I-20 before starting any CPT-related work.

7. Not Providing Sufficient Financial Proof:

• Mistake: Failing to submit adequate proof of financial support for your stay in the U.S.

• How to Avoid: Submit clear and sufficient evidence of your financial resources. This can include bank statements, sponsorship letters, or affidavits of support.

8. Overlooking the Importance of SEVIS Fee Payment:

• Mistake: Forgetting to pay the SEVIS fee or providing incorrect payment receipts.

• How to Avoid: Ensure you pay the SEVIS fee (for both OPT and CPT) and keep the receipt as proof. This is a mandatory step in the application process.

9. Ignoring Job Requirements for CPT:

• Mistake: Not ensuring that the job or internship you are applying for meets the CPT eligibility criteria, such as being directly related to your major.

• How to Avoid: Double-check that your job is directly related to your degree program. Your DSO will verify this before authorizing your CPT.

10. Not Understanding the Limits of OPT and CPT:

• Mistake: Applying for OPT or CPT without fully understanding the programs limitations and requirements.

• How to Avoid: Research the specific requirements for each program. Be aware of how many hours you can work, whether the job must be related to your field of study, and whether you are eligible for extensions.

CPT vs. OPT: Key Differences