While studying in the United States, international students often look for ways to get real-world job experience while keeping their F-1 visa status. CPT and OPT are two important programs that enable them to do so. For students hoping to get professional experience and establish a career in the United States, it is essential to comprehend these job choices. The specifics of OPT and CPT, as well as their eligibility criteria, application procedures, and compliance best practices, are examined in this extensive reference.
Optional Practical Training (OPT): What is it?
OPT definition
F-1 visa holders are awarded temporary employment permission (OPT), which permits them to work in a position that is directly relevant to their area of study. It gives foreign students the chance to put their academic knowledge to use in a real-world professional setting.
OPT Types
- OPT Prior to Completion
- Accessible to students who are currently enrolled in their course of study.
- There is a 20-hour workweek cap during school hours.
- During school breaks, students may work full-time jobs.
- After-Completion OPT
- Accessible after a student’s graduation.
- permits 40 hours of full-time work each week.
- must be submitted within 60 days after program completion or 90 days before.
OPT Length and Extensions
- The standard OPT is good for a year.
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) degree holders may be eligible for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, which would give them 36 months of work authorization in total.
OPT Application Procedure
- Update Form I-20 and get the Designated School Official’s (DSO) endorsement.
- Send the Application for Employment Authorization, Form I-765, to USCIS.
- Await the issuing of an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) after paying the application cost.
- Only after obtaining the EAD card may work start.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT): What is it?
The meaning of CPT
As a crucial component of their academic curriculum, F-1 students are permitted to participate in practical training under the job permission known as CPT. Usually, this training takes the shape of work-study agreements, joint education initiatives, or internships.
Important Aspects of CPT
- The student’s work must have a direct connection to their major.
- either full-time (more than 20 hours per week) or part-time (20 hours or less per week).
- need an employer’s offer letter prior to application.
- must be recorded on the student’s Form I-20 and approved by the DSO.
CPT Length and Restrictions
- The use of CPT has no cumulative limit.
- Students who have been on full-time CPT for 12 months or more are not eligible for OPT.
- In contrast to OPT, CPT does not need USCIS permission since it is authorized by the institution.
Application Procedure for CPT
- Obtain an offer of employment from a company in a field associated with the student’s course of study.
- Update Form I-20 and get DSO clearance.
- Start working on the CPT dates that have been authorized.
Differences Between OPT and CPT
| Feature | OPT | CPT |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Practical experience post-study | Practical training during study |
| Authorization | Requires USCIS approval | Approved by DSO |
| Work Limit | 12 months (or 36 months with STEM extension) | No limit, but 12 months of full-time CPT makes students ineligible for OPT |
| Timing | Before or after graduation | Must be completed during academic program |
| Employer Requirement | No job offer required at the time of application | Must have a job offer before applying |
Keeping Up F-1 Status While Performing OPT and CPT
In order to stay out of trouble with the law and keep their legal F-1 status, students need to:
- Make sure their major has a direct bearing on their work.
- Only work throughout the permitted time frame and adhere to USCIS regulations.
- Notify the DSO of any changes to your job within ten days.
- Respect unemployment limits: OPT students are allowed to be jobless for a maximum of 150 days with a STEM extension and 90 days during the regular OPT duration.
Best Practices for Career Advancement in OPT and CPT
- Plan Ahead: To optimize prospects, thoroughly examine OPT and CPT rules well in advance of graduation.
- Make Use of University Resources: Make use of internships, career services, and job fairs.
- Network: To learn about employment opportunities, get in touch with former students and business leaders.
- Keep Up: Students should often check for changes since USCIS policies are subject to change.
- Seek employer sponsorship: Take into account organizations who are prepared to sponsor an H-1B visa after OPT if you are looking for long-term work in the United States.
In conclusion
International students studying in the United States have the opportunity to improve their professional chances and get practical experience via OPT and CPT. Students may maximize these work permission programs while preserving their legal status by being aware of the eligibility requirements, application procedures, and compliance standards. Students may make a seamless transition from school to professional professions in the United States by planning ahead and keeping up with regulatory changes.
