Opt and CPT Visas Explained: Key Differences and How to Apply

Studying in the United States can be a dream come true for many international students. However, navigating through the different visa options can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to the Optional Practical Training (OPT) and the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) visas. In this article, we will explore the key differences between these two visas and how to apply for them.

What is OPT?

OPT is a visa program that allows international students who have completed or are about to complete their academic studies to work in the United States for up to 12 months, with the possibility of an additional 24 months for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) graduates. OPT can be used both before and after graduation, and it can be full-time or part-time.

What is CPT?

CPT is another visa program that allows international students to gain practical work experience in their field of study while still in school. CPT is connected to the academic requirements of the program, and it can be part-time or full-time. CPT can only be used while the student is enrolled in an eligible academic program.

Key Differences Between OPT and CPT

One of the main differences between OPT and CPT is the timing of when the work experience takes place. OPT is used after graduation, allowing international students to work in the United States following their academic studies. CPT, on the other hand, takes place while the international student is still enrolled in school, allowing them to gain work experience while they complete their studies.

Another key difference is the length of time that students can work under each visa program. OPT allows for up to 12 months of work experience, with the possibility of an additional 24 months for STEM graduates. Meanwhile, CPT is limited to a maximum of 12 months, and it is dependent on the academic program requirements.

Furthermore, there are also differences in eligibility requirements between the two programs. For example, to be eligible for OPT, international students must have been enrolled full-time in a degree program for at least one full academic year, while CPT requires students to have completed at least one full academic year and be enrolled in an eligible program of study.

How to Apply for OPT

To apply for OPT, international students must first obtain a Form I-20 from their school's Designated School Official (DSO). The DSO will guide the student through the application process and provide the necessary documents and information needed for the application.

Once the student has the Form I-20, they must submit an application for an employment authorization document (EAD) to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The application takes an average of 90 days to process, so it's important to plan accordingly.

How to Apply for CPT

To apply for CPT, international students must first obtain approval from their academic institution's International Student Office (ISO). The ISO will assess the student's eligibility and determine if the proposed work experience meets the academic requirements of the program.

If the ISO approves the CPT, the student must then submit an application for an employment authorization document (EAD) to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The application processing time will vary, but it typically takes around one to two months.

Conclusion

As an international student, both OPT and CPT offer great opportunities to gain work experience in the United States. While there are differences in eligibility requirements, timing of work experience, and maximum duration, both programs require an employment authorization document (EAD) from the USCIS. The application process can take a few months to complete, so it's important to plan ahead and work closely with your academic institution's International Student Office or Designated School Official to ensure a successful application.