Introduction: OPT and CPT guide
The USA is the dream of thousands of international students every year to study there. Although a global degree is one of the key benefits, one of the most compelling appeals is the possibility of working in the USA during and after education. Nevertheless, employment regulations are often unclear, particularly when students encounter terms such as Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT). In case you are looking to find out all the necessary information about the OPT and CPT guide, here is a detailed article that will make it easier to understand what they are, how they differ, who is eligible, what the advantages are, which problems can arise, and what tips can help you achieve the highest probability of success. At the application stage or currently in the USA, this article will serve as your handbook for working during studies in the USA and maximising your international education experience.The Value of Employment Opportunities to the International Students.
- Acquire practical experience in your degree.
- Network professionally in the USA.
- Learn and earn so as to cover living costs.
- Enhance the likelihood of achieving long-term employment after graduation.
What is Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the USA?
Optional Practical Training (OPT USA) is a program that allows international students on an F-1 visa to work in the United States for up to 12 months after completion (or during the course of) their studies. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) students have the option of a 24-month STEM OPT extension that will be combined with the initial 36 months of work authorisation.Key Features of OPT:
- Can be offered prior to (pre-completion OPT) and post-completion (post-completion OPT) of studies.
- Not obligated to be sponsored by the employer initially.
- Part-time while studying and full-time upon completion of the program.
- Connected to your major —you have to work in jobs that relate to it.
Benefits of OPT:
- Work in the United States, then apply for an H-1B or another visa.
- Build industry connections
- Careers Test opportunities in your area of choice.
- Enhance your home-country employability when you are back after studies.
Example:
Suppose you graduated with a Master’s in Computer Science in the USA. There is also the option of a 12-month placement at a technology firm in Silicon Valley (12 months with STEM OPT), which is priceless for the exposure you gain in your career.
What is CPT (Curricular Practical Training)?
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is another type of work authorization for F-1 students. Unlike OPT, CPT must be directly tied to your degree program, such as an internship, practicum, fieldwork, or cooperative education project. It usually happens while you are still studying.Key Features of CPT:
- Can be part-time (20 hours/week) or full-time (more than 20 hours/week)
- Must be aligned with your program of study
- Requires approval from your university’s Designated School Official (DSO)
- Can begin after you complete at least one academic year in the U.S.
Example:
A business student might do a summer marketing internship at a U.S. firm. This qualifies as CPT since it is part of their degree requirement.OPT vs CPT – What’s the Difference?
This is the most common area of confusion for students. Let’s break it down clearly:| Feature | OPT (Optional Practical Training USA) | CPT (Curricular Practical Training) |
| When it’s used | During or after studies | During studies |
| Relation to coursework | Related field (not necessarily tied to curriculum) | Must be part of curriculum |
| Duration | 12 months + 24 months STEM extension | Depends on program, approved by DSO |
| Approval requirements | USCIS approval | University DSO approval |
| Full-time/Part-time | Both allowed | Both allowed, but restrictions vary |
Eligibility Criteria for OPT and CPT Guide
OPT Eligibility:
- Must hold a valid F-1 student visa
- Must have completed at least one academic year
- Job must be directly related to your field of study
CPT Eligibility:
- Must be enrolled full-time for at least one academic year
- CPT must be part of your program or required by curriculum
- Must have an approved job offer before applying
Steps to Apply for OPT and CPT Guide
Applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) can feel overwhelming due to strict immigration rules. But if you follow the process step by step, you’ll be able to navigate the paperwork easily. Here’s a detailed OPT and CPT application guide:
Steps to Apply for OPT (Optional Practical Training USA)
- Meet with Your Designated School Official (DSO):
- Schedule a meeting at your university’s International Student Office.
- The DSO will confirm your eligibility for OPT and explain school policies.
- Choose Application Type – Pre or Post Completion:
- Pre-completion OPT: Used while completing your degree (part-time only).
- Post-completion OPT: Used after graduation (full-time).
- Submit OPT Request Form to Your DSO:
- Your DSO will update your SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record.
- A new Form I-20 will be issued that shows “OPT requested.”
- Complete Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization):
- This is the most crucial form, filed with USCIS.
- You’ll need recent passport photos, copies of your I-20, I-94, and previous visa documents.
- Pay USCIS Filing Fee:
- Fees typically range around $410 (subject to changes).
- Wait for USCIS Processing:
- Approval takes 90–120 days on average.
- You’ll receive your EAD (Employment Authorization Document) card if approved.
- Start Working Once OPT is Authorized:
- You cannot start until you physically receive your EAD and reach the valid start date.
- Work only in roles related to your academic field.
Steps to Apply for CPT (Curricular Practical Training)
- Secure an Internship/Job Offer:
- Unlike OPT, CPT requires you to show an official offer letter that is directly tied to your degree.
- Consult Your Academic Advisor and DSO:
- Your academic advisor must confirm that the internship/job is part of your program or fulfills academic credit requirements.
- Your DSO will verify whether you are eligible (you must have completed at least one full academic year in the U.S.)
- Provide Required Documentation:
- Documents typically include your offer letter, proof that the internship is credit-bearing (if required), and course registration details.
- Get CPT Authorization on Form I-20:
- Your DSO records the authorization in SEVIS and issues a new I-20 form showing CPT approval.
- Work During Authorized Period:
- You may begin working only after receiving CPT authorization.
- CPT can be part-time (20 hours/week or less) during the semester or full-time during breaks.
Quick Recap Table – OPT vs CPT Application Steps
| Process | OPT (Optional Practical Training USA) | CPT (Curricular Practical Training) |
| When Apply | Usually during final semester (for post-completion OPT) | Anytime after completing 1 year of study |
| Key Forms | I-765 (USCIS) + I-20 with OPT recommendation | I-20 with CPT approval (SEVIS update by DSO) |
| Job Offer | Not required at time of application | Required before applying |
| Approval Body | USCIS (takes ~90–120 days) | University DSO (processing is faster, usually within weeks) |
| Work Start | Only after EAD card + approval dates | Immediately after I-20 with CPT endorsement |
Benefits and Challenges of OPT and CPT Guide
When considering working during studies in the USA, it’s crucial to understand both the advantages and limitations of programs like Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Let’s look at them in detail.Benefits of OPT and CPT Guide
- Gain Practical Industry Experience
- OPT and CPT give international students hands-on experience in real workplace environments.
- Enhance Employability
- Employers in the USA and globally value candidates with U.S. work exposure.
- Financial Support
- Part-time and full-time opportunities help students cover living costs.
- Networking Opportunities
- Working in American companies allows you to build professional connections for future career prospects.
- Smooth Pathway to Long-Term Visas
- OPT experience often improves chances of transitioning to H-1B or employer sponsorship.
- Opportunity to Explore Career Paths
- Students can test different roles related to their course before committing full-time post-graduation.
Challenges of OPT and CPT Guide
- Strict USCIS Regulations
- You must follow F-1 visa regulations closely. Unauthorized work can affect your immigration status.
- Limited Timelines
- OPT is capped at 12 months (36 months for STEM OPT). CPT is only valid during your academic program.
- Application Processing Time
- OPT authorization can take 90–120 days, often causing delays in starting jobs.
- Job Market Competition
- Students compete with U.S. citizens and permanent residents for the same roles.
- CPT Restrictions
- Overusing CPT (especially full-time CPT for 12 months) can make you ineligible for OPT.
- Uncertainty in Post-OPT Opportunities
- Many students worry about securing H-1B sponsorship after their OPT period ends.
Common Mistakes Students Make: OPT and CPT guide
1. Applying Too Late
Many students wait until the last minute to apply for OPT (Optional Practical Training USA). Since USCIS can take up to 90–120 days to process applications, late submissions often result in a gap between graduation and starting work. How to avoid it: Apply for OPT up to 90 days before your program end date. Mark your calendar and act early.2. Working Without Authorization
Some students begin internships or jobs before receiving their EAD (Employment Authorization Document) for OPT or before CPT approval is printed on the new I-20. This can seriously jeopardize your F-1 visa status. 👉 How to avoid it: Never start work until you have official approval. For OPT, wait for your EAD. For CPT, wait for the DSO-endorsed I-20.3. Choosing Jobs Unrelated to Your Field of Study
OPT and CPT require employment to be directly tied to your degree. Working in an unrelated field (like a Computer Science student taking a restaurant job) may lead to complications if USCIS audits your records. 👉 How to avoid it: Always ensure your job description, duties, or internship role match your academic major. Keep documentation and offer letters for proof.4. Confusing OPT and CPT Guide Rules
Students often confuse the two programs:- Some assume CPT is optional (it’s not, it must be tied to your course)
- Others think using CPT doesn’t affect OPT (but 12+ months of full-time CPT cancels your OPT eligibility)
5. Missing Validation & Reporting Requirements
- On OPT, students must report employment to their DSO within 90 days.
- Failure to maintain accurate SEVIS records can result in termination of F-1 status.
6. Not Considering Travel Restrictions
Students often travel outside the USA when their OPT application is pending, or before receiving their EAD. This can cause issues upon re-entry since you need both your EAD card and valid job offer letter. 👉 How to avoid it: Avoid unnecessary travel during processing. If you must travel, consult your DSO beforehand.7. Ignoring Deadlines for STEM OPT Extension
Students eligible for STEM OPT sometimes forget to apply for an extension on time. This must be filed before your initial 12-month OPT expires. Missing it means losing 24 additional months of work authorization. 👉 How to avoid it: Track your EAD expiration date and apply for the extension well in advance.8. Relying on Misinformation from Peers
Many students get advice about OPT and CPT from friends or online groups. While well-intentioned, this often leads to half-truths or misleading shortcuts. 👉 How to avoid it: Rely on official sources like USCIS, your DSO, or trusted advisors like Gateway International who can guide you based on accurate and updated immigration policies.
Gateway International – How We Assist Students
At Gateway International, we specialize in guiding students through every step of their study abroad journey. Our expert counselors provide personalized advice to ensure you don’t just study in the USA, but also secure opportunities for working during studies USA.Our Services: OPT and CPT guide
- Guidance on OPT and CPT filing process
- Assistance with F-1 visa requirements
- Internship and job search support
- One-on-one mentoring for career planning
- University partnerships that offer CPT-ready programs
Student Success Story
Laxmi Sharma – MS in Data Analytics, USA When Laxmi approached Gateway International, she wanted to pursue her dream of studying in the USA but was worried about gaining industry exposure. Our team helped her secure admission at a top U.S. university offering CPT opportunities. During her second year, she landed a paid internship at a Fortune 500 company through CPT. After graduation, she smoothly transitioned into OPT (Optional Practical Training USA), where she worked as a Data Analyst in New York. Today, Laxmi is on an H-1B visa and continues to build her career in the U.S. She credits her journey to the right OPT and CPT guide and Gateway International’s mentorship.Student Queries
Q1: Can I do both OPT and CPT guide? Yes, but full-time CPT for 12 months can eliminate your OPT eligibility. Q2: Can I switch jobs on OPT? Yes, as long as the new job is related to your field of study. Q3: How long does OPT approval take? Usually 90–120 days. Apply early! Q4: Is CPT paid or unpaid? Both options exist depending on the employer. Q5: What is STEM OPT? A 24-month extension available to STEM graduates after the initial 12 months of OPT.Quiz – Test Your Knowledge
- OPT is available to students on which visa type? A) H-1B B) F-1 C) J-1
- Maximum duration of STEM OPT extension is: A) 12 months B) 24 months C) 36 months
- CPT must always be: A) Part of your academic program B) Independent of your program C) Optional after graduation
