For international students in the United States, Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) are critical components when it comes to internships and full-time job applications. These programs allow internal students to work legally in the US, and help bridge the transition from student visas to work visas.
What is OPT?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is an authorization granted to F-1 visa students to work in the U.S. in their major area of study. Students can apply for 12 months of OPT employment authorization at each education level (e.g., undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels).
There is a special arrangement for those in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields, as students in these majors may apply for a 24-month extension, known as the STEM OPT extension, potentially allowing them to work for up to 36 months post-graduation.
Types of OPT
- Pre-completion OPT: Students can engage in part-time or full-time employment before graduation. It’s often used during the summer break or while the student is still attending classes.
- Post-completion OPT: After completing their degrees, students can work either part-time or full-time. This is the most common type of OPT, commencing after graduation.
To apply for OPT, students must receive a recommendation from their school’s International Student Office and apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The application process typically involves meticulous documentation and adherence to strict timelines.
What is CPT?
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a type of work authorization for F-1 international students allowing them to gain employment experience as part of their curriculum. It’s important to note that the job is an integral part of an established curriculum.
CPT must be directly related to the student’s major and is an opportunity that typically takes the form of an internship, practicum, or cooperative education.
Unlike OPT, CPT can be utilized at any point during the student’s academic program, as long as they have completed one academic year, unless they are graduate students where the program requires immediate participation. CPT can be part-time (20 hours per week or less) or full-time (more than 20 hours per week), and there is no limit to how long a student can engage in CPT. However, students who participate in 12 months or more of full-time CPT are ineligible for OPT.
Key Differences Between OPT and CPT
While both OPT and CPT offer invaluable work experience, they serve different academic and career stages. OPT is more flexible as it can be used before or after graduation, whereas CPT must be part of the curriculum during the student’s study. It’s important to remember that the extensive use of full-time CPT could affect eligibility for OPT.
Transition to Work Visas
Participation in OPT, especially under the STEM extension, can provide a pathway to H-1B visas, which are used by employers to hire international workers in specialty occupations. The practical experience gained through OPT and CPT can make students more attractive candidates in the competitive H-1B lottery process.
Conclusion
For international students in the U.S., both OPT and CPT represent more than just work opportunities; they are stepping stones in the journey of educational and professional development. By integrating academic learning with practical application, these programs not only enhance students’ resumes but also prepare them for the complexities of the global job market.