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

Here’s a simple overview and comparison of Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students, including information relevant to courses of study and degrees in STEM* fields:

Curricular Practical Training (CPT):

CPT is a type of work authorization that allows F-1 students to gain practical training and experience directly related to their major field of study. Here are the key points to know about CPT:

  1. Timing: CPT can be used during the student’s academic program, either on a part-time or full-time basis. It can be used during the fall, spring, or summer semesters.
  2. Authorization: Students need to receive authorization from their Designated School Official (DSO) before starting CPT. The authorization is typically granted by endorsing the student’s Form I-20.
  3. Requirements: CPT work must be an integral part of the curriculum and directly related to the student’s major. It must fulfill a specific academic requirement or be a required part of the program.
  4. Duration: There is no strict limit on the duration of CPT, but students who accumulate 12 months or more of full-time CPT may become ineligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Optional Practical Training (OPT):

OPT is a type of work authorization that allows F-1 students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months (or 24 months for STEM OPT extension) after completing their academic program. Here are the key points to know about OPT:

  1. Timing: OPT can be used after completing an academic program. Students can apply for OPT up to 90 days before their program end date and up to 60 days after their program end date.
  2. Authorization: Students need to apply for and receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to begin working on OPT.
  3. Requirements: OPT work must be directly related to the student’s major field of study. It does not have to be a required part of the curriculum.
  4. Duration: Students are eligible for up to 12 months of standard post-completion OPT. Students in STEM fields may be eligible for a 24-month STEM OPT extension.

Separate But Important Implications for STEM Fields:

For students pursuing courses of study or degree programs in the STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), there are some additional considerations:

  1. STEM OPT Extension: Students in STEM fields who are approved for the STEM OPT extension can work for an additional 24 months beyond the initial 12 months of OPT, totaling up to 36 months of post-completion work authorization.
  2. E-Verify: Employers hiring STEM OPT students are required to participate in the E-Verify program, which verifies the employment eligibility of workers.
  3. Training Plan: STEM OPT students need to work for employers who are willing to provide a formal training plan that outlines the goals and objectives of the practical training opportunity.
  4. Reporting Requirements: STEM OPT students are required to regularly update their DSO with information about their employment, including any changes in employment status.

It’s important for F-1 students to work closely with their DSO and follow all regulations and guidelines when considering CPT, OPT, or STEM OPT. Consulting with an immigration advisor can help ensure that students make informed decisions and remain in compliance with their visa status.

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* Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics = STEM

Last Revision: 2024-10-4