Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for F-1 Students

Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 Students

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a form of training, often paid, that directly relates to your program of study. You can apply for OPT during your program of study, which is pre-completion OPT, or after you finish your program of study, known as post-completion OPT. In order to apply for OPT, F-1 students must request approval from their DSO.

A DSO makes this recommendation in SEVIS and by endorsing a student’s Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.”

The student must then file the Form I-765, “Application for Employment Authorization” and supporting documents with USCIS, and if approved, USCIS will issue a Form I-766, “Employment Authorization Document.” You cannot begin your training until you receive your authorization from USCIS.

Pre-completion OPT is limited to 20 hours per week. F-1 students may only participate in pre-completion OPT while school is in session.
Post-completion OPT: For non-STEM student, you can apply for 12 months of OPT at each education level, (i.e., you may have 12 months of OPT at the bachelor’s level and another 12 months of OPT at the master’s level).
- STEM OPT: If you are an F-1 student earning a degree science, technology, engineering or math (STEM), you may be eligible for the 24-month STEM OPT extension.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for F-1 Students

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is an alternative study, internship or other type of required practicum that is offered by a sponsoring employer through your college or university. CPT is only available for F-1 students when it is part of an established curriculum within a school. CPT must relate to your program of study, however, unlike pre-completion OPT, CPT can be full time and is not restricted by a weekly 20-hour work limit.

In order to qualify for CPT, you must have completed one full academic year of study, UNLESS you are 1) a graduate student; and 2) your program requires immediate CPT. To get permission for CPT, your DSO needs to authorize it in SEVIS and provide you with a Form I-20 indicating your recommendation for the training opportunity.