The main difference between OPT and CPT lies in the eligibility timeframe for each program and the type of work permitted. OPT can be undertaken before or after graduation, whereas CPT must be completed before Graduation.
In this blog, we will discuss the CPT and OPT for international students and their differences. So, let’s jump into the topic.
Contents
Benefits of CPT and OPT in the USA
Do you want to get a part-time job while studying in USA? International students must obtain authorization from the appropriate authorities to participate in co-ops, internships, and part-time or full-time jobs. This authorization can be granted by the school’s international office or USCIS (United States Citizenship & Immigration Services) in the form of OPT, CPT, or on-campus employment.
What is CPT?
CPT employment is a component of your major curriculum that allows students to engage in paid or unpaid internships, practicums, or cooperative (co-op) education programs. CPT must be included in your major; if not, you must earn course credit instead. Please note that only specific employers are eligible to participate in CPT. Students who have a valid F-1 visa and are currently enrolled in a full-time one-year course are eligible to participate in Curricular Practical Training (CPT). This program allows them to pursue internships that are directly related to their major.
Who is eligible for CPT?
Are you eligible for CPT? Let’s know the eligibility criteria for CPT.
- F-1 Student Status: To be eligible for CPT, the student must be enrolled as a full-time student in an accredited U.S. educational institution on an F-1 visa.
- Completed one academic year: The student should have completed one academic year as a full-time student before applying for CPT.
- Academic Requirement and relevant job offer: The academic program must offer an opportunity for practical training as part of the curriculum. The training must be directly related to your major field of study. It’s important to note that CPT requires authorization from your designated school official (DSO) and must be approved before you can begin working.
Documents requirement to apply for CPT in the USA
The following documents are required for a CPT in the USA
1. CPT Application form
2. Job offer letter
3. Academic transcript showing completed coursework and academic standing
4. Proof of enrollment as a full-time student in an accredited U.S. educational institution.
5. Form I-20 signed and endorsed by the Designated School Official (DSO).
How to apply for a CPT?
The application process for CPT may vary slightly depending on the institution’s policies and procedures. Here is a general procedure to follow:
1. Consult with your Designated School Official (DSO): Schedule a meeting with your DSO to discuss your intent to apply for CPT. They will guide you through the specific requirements and procedures at your institution. The CPT application process usually takes about 7-10 days, so it is recommended to apply at least 2 weeks before you plan to start working.
2. Secure a Job or Internship Offer: Look for a job or internship opportunity that is directly related to your major field of study and aligns with the practical training component of your curriculum.
3. Obtain a Job Offer Letter: Once you have secured a job offer, request a letter from your employer on official company letterhead. The letter should include details such as the position title, a brief description of job duties, the start and end dates of employment, the number of hours per week, and the location of work.
4. Complete CPT Application: Fill out the CPT application form provided by your institution. This form may require information such as your details, academic program, employment details, and the academic advisor’s recommendation.
5. Prepare Supporting Documents: Gather the necessary supporting documents, which may include your job offer letter, a copy of your academic transcript, and any other documents required by your institution.
6. Submit Application to DSO: Submit your completed CPT application and supporting documents to your DSO. They will review your application, verify the information, and evaluate your eligibility for CPT.
7. Receive CPT Authorization: If your application is approved, your DSO will issue you a new Form I-20 with the CPT authorization. This document serves as proof that you are authorized to engage in CPT.
8. Start CPT and Maintain Status: Once you have received your CPT authorization, you can begin working. It’s important to comply with the authorized dates, hours, and any other conditions specified on your CPT authorization. Additionally, make sure to maintain your full-time student status and continue making progress toward your degree.
What is OPT?
The Optional Practical Training (OPT) program offers students the opportunity to seek employment before or after finishing their studies. International students who come to the USA for their education often have concerns about finding jobs. In the US, there are two programs available for international students: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Students who have completed their first academic year are eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows them to work in various jobs related to their field of study. It is important to note that to work on OPT, you must first obtain authorization from USCIS. You are not allowed to start working until you have received your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card.
Types of Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- Pre-completion OPT: The OPT Program starts before the degree is completed, and the duration of this period is subtracted from the 12 months of eligibility later on.
- Post-completion OPT: The OPT program begins after the degree is completed, and this option is highly preferred by international students.
- STEM OPT: Certain degree holders in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields may qualify for a 24-month extension of their OPT, allowing them to have a total of up to 36 months.
Who is eligible for OPT?
Let’s learn about the eligibility criteria for OPT while using a USA student visa.
- To qualify for OPT, the student must be enrolled as a full-time student in an accredited U.S. educational institution on an F-1 visa.
- Completion of one academic year: Before applying for OPT, the student should have completed one academic year as a full-time student.
- Less than 12 months of CPT completed: Students who have completed less than 12 months of CPT are eligible to apply for OPT. If a student has completed 12 months or more of CPT, they are not eligible to apply for OPT.
Documents required for an OPT
To complete your OPT application, it is important to gather all the necessary documents. The specific documents required may vary, but generally, you will need to have the following:
1. A completed Form I-765, which is the Application for Employment Authorization.
2. Copies of both your current and previous Forms I-20.
3. Passport-style photographs.
4. A copy of the identification page of your passport.
5. If applicable, a copy of the most recent page of your F-1 visa.
6. If applicable, copies of any previous Employment Authorization Documents (EAD).
7. A copy of your academic transcript or any evidence that demonstrates the completion of your degree.
8. A check or money order for the OPT application fee, payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
How to apply for an OPT?
The application process for Optional Practical Training (OPT) involves several steps. Here is a general outline of the process:
1. Determine OPT Eligibility: Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for OPT, including completing a degree program at an accredited U.S. educational institution and maintaining valid F-1 student status.
2. Complete Form I-765: Fill out Form I-765 with accurate and up-to-date information about yourself, your educational institution, and your OPT request. Select the appropriate OPT category (pre-completion or post-completion) and sign the form.
3. Review and Organize Documents: Check your application materials for accuracy and completeness. Organize the documents as instructed in the application guidelines.
4. Application Timing: You can apply for OPT up to 90 days before completing your degree and up to 60 days after completing your degree. Apply to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
5. Submit OPT Application: Submit your OPT application to USCIS. You can file it online through the USCIS website or by mail.
6. Track Application Status: After submitting your application, you can track its status on the USCIS website. USCIS will issue a receipt notice to confirm receipt of your application.
7. Receive Employment Authorization Document (EAD): If your OPT application is approved, you will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card. This card serves as proof of your work authorization and includes important details like the start and end dates of your OPT period.
8. Start OPT and Maintain Status: Once you have your EAD card, you can begin working within the authorized dates. Be sure to comply with OPT regulations and reporting requirements, such as informing your educational institution’s international student office of any changes in employment, address, or immigration status.
What is the difference between CPT and OPT?
Are you confused about CPT and OPT? Here are the differences between CPT and OPT.
- All F1 students are eligible for 12 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) after completing their degree.
- If you utilize 12 months of full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT), you will forfeit all 12 months of OPT at that degree level.
- None of the students at Cleveland State University will be allowed to use CPT for the full duration of 12 months.
- Please be aware that completing CPT every semester is not mandatory in CSU academic programs to earn a degree.
- In most programs, CPT is limited to a one-semester course that will contribute towards graduation credits. Repeating the internship course will not count toward graduation and, consequently, no additional CPT will be approved.
- CPT will only be authorized if it is necessary for graduation and completion of your degree.
What is STEM OPT extension?
Students pursuing a degree in any STEM course or Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics are granted a 24-month OPT extension. This extension provides a period of temporary training directly related to an F-1 student’s program of study. It allows students to gain work experience that enhances their understanding of the practical application of the subject.
Who is eligible for STEM OPT extension?
To be eligible for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, students must meet the following requirements:
1. Students must hold F-1 international student status.
2. Students must be in the STEM OPT period.
3. Students must have obtained a bachelor’s degree or higher in an eligible STEM field in the US.
4. The employer must participate in the e-verify program.
5. Both the employer and the employee must sign Form I-983, also referred to as the ‘Training Plan for STEM OPT Students’.
Read More: MOI Accepted Universities In The USA
Wrap up
Interested to learn more about studying in the USA? Visit our website to learn more about studying abroad in USA as an international student.
FAQ
Does CPT mean sponsorship?
Ans: CPT is not its visa category and does not necessitate “sponsorship” from an employer. However, for a student to apply for CPT authorization, they must first have received an offer for practical training from an employer.
What is CPT under an F-1 visa?
Ans: To be eligible, students must have completed a full academic year of school and have a valid job or internship offer. The job or internship must be related to the student’s field of study and fulfill an integral requirement of their academic program.
Is CPT the same as EAD?
Ans: If you are approved for CPT, you will not be issued a separate EAD. Instead, the second page of your Form I-20, which contains your CPT authorization, will serve as evidence of your employment eligibility. You will need to present this document, along with your I-94 record, to your employer to complete Form I-9, which verifies your eligibility to work.
Is CPT the same as opt?
Ans: The main distinction between OPT and CPT lies in the timing of eligibility and the nature of permissible work. OPT can be undertaken either before or after graduation, whereas CPT must be completed before graduation.
What is opt-in USA?
Ans: Optional Practical Training (OPT) refers to temporary employment that is directly related to the major area of study of an F-1 student.
What are the CPT visa working hours?
Ans: Part-time CPT allows for a maximum of 20 hours of work per week, while full-time CPT allows for more than 20 hours per week. It’s important to note that if you engage in full-time CPT for 12 months or longer, you may become ineligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT).
