One of the most common questions that international students ask is, “Can I work in the USA while on a student visa?” The good news is that the answer is yes, however, there are some limitations. International students for the first year of their course can only work on-campus. After the completion of the first year, they are allowed to work off-campus through specific programs. The two options they will likely come across are OPT (Optional Practical Training) and CPT (Curricular Practical Training). At first glance, they may seem quite similar. But there are some key differences you need to understand before deciding which is right for you. The duration, application processes and eligibility criteria differ. This blog will break down the ins and outs of OPT vs CPT so you can make the choice that fits your needs. Let’s dive in!
What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?
Curricular Practical Training or CPT allows F-1 students to participate in internships, co-op programs, or any work experience that is an integral part of their curriculum. Unlike OPT, CPT must be directly related to your major area of study.
CPT is authorised by your school’s Designated School Official (DSO) and you must receive academic credit for the work experience. The CPT authorization will specify things like the specific job, location, and dates of employment. Make sure you understand all the details and limitations before starting any work.
General Eligibility for CPT
- Must be an F-1 student enrolled in a SEVP-certified institution for a full-time program for at least one year.
- You can apply for CPT for your minor area of study or general graduation requirements
- One year of full-time CPT eliminates a student’s eligibility for OPT
- Training should be related directly to the student’s major area of study
- Training should be directly related to the school’s established curriculum
Authorisation
- On the student’s Form I-20, the DSO printed an authorisation for CPT in SEVIS.
- Apply before the end date of the program on Form I-20
- The authorization is valid for a specific employer for a specific period of time.
- Before CPT is authorised, students must secure the training opportunity.
- CPT must be authorised before the student can begin work
What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
Optional Practical Training is a type of training often paid that is related to your degree program directly. You can apply for OPT before the completion of your program which is called pre-completion OPT or you can apply for it after the completion of your degree program, known as post-completion OPT. your DSO can guide you on which option would be better for you.
International students can apply for 12 months of OPT at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Also, as an F-1 student visa holder who is studying a STEM degree program, you may be eligible for a STEM OPT extension.
STEM OPT Extension
If you are a graduate of any STEM degree program, you may be eligible for a 24-month extension of your post-completion OPT employment authorization if you:
- Must have a STEM degree that is included on the STEM Designated Degree Program List
- Must be employed by an employer who is using E-Verify
- Received a post-completion OPT employment authorization based on of your STEM degree.
General Eligibility for OPT
- Training relates directly to the student’s major area of study
- Have a full-time student status for at least one year by the requested start date of your OPT
- Have not used OPT at the same degree program before
Applying for OPT
Generally, you must:
- Request an OPT recommendation from your institute’s DSO. By signing your Form I-20, Certification of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, and adding the necessary information to SEVIS, your DSO will make the recommendation.
- The OPT requires filing Form I-765 with USCIS, with the required fee and the supporting documentation as specified in the form instruction.
Key Differences Between OPT and CPT
| Curricular Practical Training (CPT) | Optional Practical Training (OPT) | |
| Who can apply? | Holders of F-1 visas who have completed at least one full academic year of study. | Holders of F-1 visas who have completed at least one full academic year of study. |
| Do you need to have a job lined up before your DSO authorises or recommends practical training? | Yes | No, before your DSO recommends OPT, you do not need to commit to a job. |
| Who authorises your practical training? | Your DSO authorises your CPT | Your OPT will be approved by USCIS.gov on the DSO’s recommendation. |
| Which document do you need for eligibility? | Form I-20 (provided by your DSO) | Employment Authorisation Document (EAD) (sent by USCIS) |
| When can you participate? | CPT occurs during your study program | OPT can occur before or after the completion of your degree. |
| Is it employer-specific? | Yes, and it is part of your course curriculum | No |
| Is it eligible for STEM extension? | No | Yes, STEM degree graduates can apply for a 24-month OPT extension |
So there you have it. OPT and CPT are two different types of work authorization available to international students in the US but serve very different purposes. Make sure you understand which one is right for your needs before applying. Whichever route you choose, good luck gaining experience in the US! The skills and connections you make can open up many new doors.
