Mission: Accepted! U.S. College Admissions Insights for International Students
CPT and OPT:
Gaining Work Experience
While Studying
While Studying
October 14, 2024
For international students, gaining practical work experience is crucial for enhancing their education and career prospects. Two critical options for work authorization are Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT). Understanding the differences, application processes, and eligibility requirements can help you make informed decisions and enhance your appeal in the U.S. and global job markets.
What is CPT?
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows international students to engage in internships, co-ops, or practicums directly related to their academic program. The training must be a part of the educational curriculum as a major-specific requirement. Usually, undergraduate students must have completed one full academic year of study before they can apply for CPT. However, some graduate programs may allow students to participate in CPT during their first year if it is a program requirement. The work performed must be directly related to your major, and depending on your college's requirements, you must receive academic credit for the experience.
Students must first secure a job offer and then apply for CPT through their university's international student services office. It is advisable to apply early, as the process can take several days to complete. You can engage in either full-time or part-time CPT. However, using 12 months or more of full-time CPT will negatively affect your eligibility for optional practical training after graduation.
Some majors include a CPT as a program requirement, particularly those emphasizing practical experience. While specific requirements can vary by institution, here are some common majors that typically require or strongly encourage CPT:
Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, etc.)
Business (especially in programs with a co-op component or internships)
Information Technology and Computer Science
Health Sciences (such as Nursing and Physical Therapy)
Hospitality and Tourism Management
Media and Communication Studies (including Journalism and Public Relations)
Social Work
Environmental Science
Architecture
Always check with your university's international student office whether CPT is a major requirement.
What is OPT?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows international students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months after graduation. To be eligible for OPT, students must have maintained valid F-1 visa status and not have used 12 months or more of full-time CPT. The OPT application process requires students to apply through USCIS, which can take several months. It is crucial to apply well in advance of your graduation date. Once approved for OPT, students can work part-time or full-time in positions related to their field of study, gaining crucial experience as they transition from academia to the workforce.
There are two types of OPT: pre-completion and post-completion.
Pre-Completion OPT
Before graduation, students can utilize a pre-completion OPT, typically after completing one academic year. They can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the academic year and full-time (more than 20 hours per week) during official school breaks, such as summer vacations. Any time used for full-time pre-completion OPT will be deducted from the total 12 months of post-completion OPT. For example, if a student uses three months of full-time pre-completion OPT during their studies, they will have nine months remaining for post-completion OPT after graduation.
What is the difference between CPT and pre-completion OPT?
CPT is directly tied to a student's curriculum and must be an integral part of their education. On the other hand, pre-completion OPT allows for work related to the field of study without the requirement of it being part of the curriculum. The university authorizes CPT through a new I-20, whereas pre-completion OPT requires a separate application process with USCIS for an EAD. Time spent in CPT does not count against the total OPT time unless a student has used full-time CPT for 12 months or more. In contrast, time spent in pre-completion OPT will be deducted from the total 12 months of post-completion OPT.
Post-Completion OPT
Post-completion OPT can only be utilized after the student has graduated. Students typically apply for it during their final semester or term and can work full-time once they receive their Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Like pre-completion OPT, students must maintain valid F-1 status and can not have used 12 months or more of full-time CPT. Students in STEM fields may be eligible for a 24-month extension of their post-completion OPT, allowing them to work for up to 36 months.
Example
Alex is an international student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at a U.S. university. He finds a summer internship with a local marketing firm that is directly related to his major. This internship is a requirement for his degree program. Before starting the internship, Alex meets with his university’s international student office to discuss his CPT eligibility. He has completed one academic year of full-time study and submits the necessary documentation to obtain CPT authorization. The office issues him a new I-20 that reflects his CPT approval.
After finishing the summer internship, Alex wants to work part-time at a startup to gain additional work experience. The job is related to his field of study, but it is not a required part of his curriculum; he chooses it for professional development. He applies for pre-completion OPT through USCIS, filling out Form I-765 and waiting for his Employment Authorization Document (EAD). During the academic year, he works part-time (up to 20 hours per week) while attending classes. If Alex uses 6 months of pre-completion OPT, that time will be deducted from his total 12-month allowance for post-completion OPT. So, he will have 6 months left for post-completion OPT after graduation.
Program Differences
CPT
Used before graduation while still enrolled
Work must be an integral part of the curriculum
Can only be used with specific employers
Authorized through a new or re-issued Form I-20 from the school
Part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the school year; full-time during breaks
Does not affect post-completion OPT eligibility unless full-time CPT is used for 12 months or more
Usually requires enrollment in a course for academic credit
Not applicable for STEM extension
Pre-completion OPT
Used during the program after completing one academic year
Related to the field of study but not limited to internships
Not employer-specific; can work for any employer
Authorized through an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
Part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the school year; full-time during breaks
Time used will reduce the total time available for post-completion OPT
Does not require enrollment in a course for credit
Eligible for a 24-month extension for STEM fields
Post-completion OPT
Used after graduation
Related to the field of study, typically full-time
Not employer-specific; can work for any employer
Authorized through an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
Full-time work (more than 20 hours per week)
Utilizes the remaining time available after any pre-completion OPT
Does not require enrollment in a course for credit
Eligible for a 24-month extension for STEM fields
Step-by-Step Application Process
CPT
Confirm that you meet your university's CPT requirements, typically you need to be enrolled full-time for at least one academic year.
Obtain a job offer for an internship, co-op, or practicum related to your major.
Meet with your university's international student services office to discuss your CPT plans and gather necessary information.
Fill out the CPT application form provided by your university, including your job offer letter and academic advisor's approval.
Turn in your CPT application and required documentation, such as your offer letter.
Once approved, your university will issue a new Form I-20 with CPT authorization. While you do not need to send your re-issued I-20 to the U.S. government, you must keep a copy for your records and provide it to your employer as proof of your CPT authorization. You should also present it if requested during any immigration checks or when re-entering the U.S.
You can start your CPT job once you have your authorized I-20.
OPT
Verify that you have maintained valid F-1 status and have not used 12 months or more of full-time CPT.
Fill out Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization). Make sure to select the correct OPT type (pre-completion or post-completion).
Prepare supporting documents, including:
A copy of your current Form I-20
A copy of your passport
A copy of your I-94 arrival/departure record
Two passport-sized photos
A check or money order for the application fee
Send your completed Form I-765 and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS address.
After processing, you will receive your EAD card, which authorizes you to work in the U.S.
You can start working once you receive your EAD card, and the employment must be related to your field of study.
Conclusion
Understanding and leveraging CPT and OPT can significantly enhance your educational experience in the U.S. By gaining practical work experience, you not only bolster your resume but also improve your employability in a competitive job market. Furthermore, pursuing paid internships through CPT and OPT can provide essential financial support, helping offset college education costs. These opportunities allow international students to build valuable skills while making their educational journey more financially sustainable.
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