Sep 24, 2025
Understanding F1 CPT and F1 OPT Programs for International Students
Navigate your path to US work experience with confidence. F1 CPT and F1 OPT programs offer international students valuable opportunities to gain practical experience in their field of study while maintaining legal status in the United States.
Understanding F1 CPT and F1 OPT Programs for International Students Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Optional Practical Training (OPT). CPT vs OPT difference.
Navigate your path to US work experience with confidence. F1 CPT and F1 OPT programs offer international students valuable opportunities to gain practical experience in their field of study while maintaining legal status in the United States.
Check Your Eligibility
Free Consultation
Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Eligibility Requirements and Application Process
Eligibility Check
Must have completed one full academic year and be in good academic standing. Employment must be integral to your curriculum and related to your major.
Documentation Preparation
Gather job offer letter, course registration proof, and academic advisor recommendation. Your job offer must specify start/end dates, hours per week, and job duties.
DSO Authorization
Submit all documents to your Designated School Official (DSO). They will verify your eligibility and update your I-20 with CPT authorization.
Begin Employment
Once your I-20 shows CPT authorization, you can legally begin working. Part-time (≤20 hours/week) or full-time options available.
Optional Practical Training (OPT): Timeline, Documentation, and STEM Extension Options
Apply Early
Submit application up to 90 days before program end date. USCIS processing takes 3-5 months.
Gather Documents
Form I-765, photos, I-20 with OPT recommendation, passport, and $410 fee.
Receive EAD Card
Employment Authorization Document allows you to work for up to 12 months.
STEM Extension
STEM degree holders can apply for additional 24 months. Must work for E-Verify employer.
OPT offers flexibility to work for any employer related to your field of study. Unlike CPT, no course enrollment is required, making it ideal for post-graduation employment.
Maintaining F1 Status While Working: Reporting Requirements and Employment Restrictions
Address Changes
Report any change of address to your DSO within 10 days. Update your SEVIS record promptly to maintain compliance with immigration regulations.
Employment Updates
Report all new employment or changes in employment within 10 days. Include employer name, address, supervisor contact information, and job description.
Unemployment Limits
During regular OPT, you cannot exceed 90 days of unemployment. STEM OPT extension allows up to 150 total days. Exceeding these limits risks termination of your F1 status.
Travel Considerations
Always carry your valid EAD card, current I-20 signed for travel, valid passport, and proof of employment when traveling internationally during OPT period.
Remember that working outside authorized employment parameters or failing to meet reporting requirements can result in serious visa consequences, including potential status termination and difficulties with future US visa applications.
F1 visa work authorization How to apply for OPT OPT STEM extension CPT requirements for international students Work experience on F1 visa
Understanding F1 CPT and F1 OPT Programs for International Students Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Optional Practical Training (OPT). CPT vs OPT difference.
Navigate your path to US work experience with confidence. F1 CPT and F1 OPT programs offer international students valuable opportunities to gain practical experience in their field of study while maintaining legal status in the United States.
Check Your Eligibility
Free Consultation
Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Eligibility Requirements and Application Process
Eligibility Check
Must have completed one full academic year and be in good academic standing. Employment must be integral to your curriculum and related to your major.
Documentation Preparation
Gather job offer letter, course registration proof, and academic advisor recommendation. Your job offer must specify start/end dates, hours per week, and job duties.
DSO Authorization
Submit all documents to your Designated School Official (DSO). They will verify your eligibility and update your I-20 with CPT authorization.
Begin Employment
Once your I-20 shows CPT authorization, you can legally begin working. Part-time (≤20 hours/week) or full-time options available.
Optional Practical Training (OPT): Timeline, Documentation, and STEM Extension Options
Apply Early
Submit application up to 90 days before program end date. USCIS processing takes 3-5 months.
Gather Documents
Form I-765, photos, I-20 with OPT recommendation, passport, and $410 fee.
Receive EAD Card
Employment Authorization Document allows you to work for up to 12 months.
STEM Extension
STEM degree holders can apply for additional 24 months. Must work for E-Verify employer.
OPT offers flexibility to work for any employer related to your field of study. Unlike CPT, no course enrollment is required, making it ideal for post-graduation employment.
Maintaining F1 Status While Working: Reporting Requirements and Employment Restrictions
Address Changes
Report any change of address to your DSO within 10 days. Update your SEVIS record promptly to maintain compliance with immigration regulations.
Employment Updates
Report all new employment or changes in employment within 10 days. Include employer name, address, supervisor contact information, and job description.
Unemployment Limits
During regular OPT, you cannot exceed 90 days of unemployment. STEM OPT extension allows up to 150 total days. Exceeding these limits risks termination of your F1 status.
Travel Considerations
Always carry your valid EAD card, current I-20 signed for travel, valid passport, and proof of employment when traveling internationally during OPT period.
Remember that working outside authorized employment parameters or failing to meet reporting requirements can result in serious visa consequences, including potential status termination and difficulties with future US visa applications.
F1 visa work authorization How to apply for OPT OPT STEM extension CPT requirements for international students Work experience on F1 visa
Curricular Practical Training, Optional Practical Training, CPT vs OPT
