What F-1 Students need to know about “CPT” and “OPT”

Understanding Curricular Practical Training (CPT) vs. Optional Practical Training (OPT)

A Guide for F-1 Students, Including Those in STEM Fields

F-1 students in the United States may be eligible for practical training opportunities to gain hands-on experience in their field of study. Two primary types of work authorization are available:

  1. Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
  2. Optional Practical Training (OPT)

This guide outlines key differences between CPT and OPT, with special notes for students in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).

1. Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT allows F-1 students to engage in practical training that is an integral part of their academic program.

Key Features of CPT:

  • Timing:
  • May be used during the academic program (fall, spring, or summer).
  • Can be authorized on a part-time or full-time basis.
  • Authorization:
  • Must be approved by the school’s Designated School Official (DSO).
  • Authorization is reflected on the student’s Form I-20.
  • Eligibility & Requirements:
  • Employment must be directly related to the student’s major.
  • Must be part of the required curriculum (e.g., internship for credit or degree requirement).
  • Duration:
  • No specific maximum limit, but:
    • 12 months or more of full-time CPT makes the student ineligible for post-completion OPT.

2. Optional Practical Training (OPT)

OPT allows F-1 students to work in their field of study during or after completion of their academic program.

Key Features of OPT:

  • Timing:
  • Most commonly used after program completion (post-completion OPT).
  • Applications can be submitted:
    • Up to 90 days before the program end date; and
    • Up to 60 days after the program end date.
  • Authorization:
  • Requires filing with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
  • Students must receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before beginning employment.
  • Eligibility & Requirements:
  • Work must be directly related to the student’s major field of study.
  • Does not need to be part of the academic curriculum.
  • Duration:
  • Students are eligible for up to 12 months of standard OPT.

3. STEM OPT Extension: Additional Opportunities for STEM Majors

Students with qualifying degrees in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) may be eligible for an additional 24-month extension of post-completion OPT.

Key Features of the STEM OPT Extension:

  • Extended Duration:
  • Adds 24 months to the standard 12-month OPT, for a total of 36 months of post-completion work authorization.
  • Employer Requirements:
  • The employer must be enrolled in the E-Verify program.
  • The employer must agree to complete and follow a formal Training Plan (Form I-983), outlining the student’s practical training goals and supervision.
  • Student Responsibilities:
  • Must report:
    • Any changes in employment,
    • Employer information, and
    • Validation reports every six months to their DSO.

Best Practices for Maintaining Status

F-1 students considering CPT, OPT, or the STEM OPT extension should:

  • Work closely with their DSO to ensure all regulatory requirements are met;
  • Apply on time, particularly for OPT and STEM extensions;
  • Keep detailed records of all work authorization approvals and related documentation;
  • Maintain compliance with employment reporting and status requirements.

For personalized guidance, students are strongly encouraged to consult their school’s international student office or an immigration advisor to ensure proper understanding and compliance. Feel free to contact me.

Last Revision: March 2025.