Off-Campus Employment
Dear International Student
Have you heard about practical training or how you can work in your field of study while in the US? Below is some general information about practical training for F-1 students. If you have questions after you read this, please contact the International Programs Advisor.
Practical Training for F-1 students: The purpose of practical training is to allow F-1 students the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge obtained in academic programs to a practical work experience. There are two types of practical training: "curricular" and "optional." There are important differences between curricular and optional practical training (CPT and OPT). Make sure you understand which might work best for your situation. You might be able to use both kinds of practical training, though not at the same time.
Optional Practical Training
Temporary employment in your field of study for purposes of gaining practical experience. May be paid or unpaid. Many students like to use 12 consecutive months of OPT after they complete their studies, although it is possible to use some OPT before completion. OPT is recommended by the International Programs Advisor and your Academic Advisor, and authorized by U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS).
You can use OPT
- During your annual vacation period, and at other times when school is not in session if you are currently enrolled and eligible, and intend to register for the next term or session.
- While school is in session, provided that it does not exceed 20 hours per week while school is in session.
- After completion of all course requirements for your degree, even if you still have to finish a required thesis, dissertation, project, or portfolio.
- After completion of your course of study. This is the most common use of OPT
Eligibility
- Students who have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year (generally nine months) at a DHS-approved school and who are maintaining status at the time of application.
- Students in English Language training programs are not eligible for practical training.
When to apply for OPT
If requesting post-completion practical training, you may apply within a period of 120 days before completion of studies. Apply early. Many students receive post-completion OPT before they have job offers. You will continue in F-1 visa status during practical training, even if you are not working.
Forms for OPT
If you would like to apply for OPT, print the following documents, read them, complete what you can, then make an appointment to meet with the International Programs Advisor.
You can make an appointment by email - Richard.Bruce@wwu.edu, by phone - 650-3928, or stop by the office in L7 [next to Environmental Health and Safety (PS)]. If you have questions while completing these documents, please send an email to Richard.Bruce@wwu.edu.
Curriculum Practical Training
An integral part of an established curriculum. It is an internship, practicum, or workstudy offered by sponsoring employers through agreements with the school. You will earn credit for your work, and it may be paid or unpaid. CPT is authorized by your International Programs Advisor and your Academic Advisor.
You can use CPT
- Once you attain eligible status and only before completion of studies.
- After you receive a written offer of employment showing the name of the employer, location of work, job description, and the dates of the contract.
- After the CPT is approved by the Academic Advisor and authorized by the International Programs Advisor in SEVIS.
Eligibility
- Students who have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year (generally nine months) at a DHS-approved school and who are maintaining status at the time of application.
- Students in English Language training programs are not eligible for practical training.
When to apply for CPT
As soon as you learn about an internship or practicum that is an integral part of the established curriculum in your course of study.
Forms for CPT
Application Procedure
Curriculum and optional practical training restrict the kind of work you do, but it does not restrict you to a particular job or location- you can go anywhere in the country!
The U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) allows up to twelve 12 months of full-time CPT or OPT. These months can be split. Any full-time authorization for CPT or OPT used before you finish your degree will be subtracted from available months after completion of your studies. If you complete 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you are not eligible for OPT after you complete your degree. However, there is no limitation on the length of time you may participate in part-time CPT. After part-time CPT, you may participate in up to twelve (12) months of full-time OPT.
- Review the OPT Checklist and/or CPT Handout.
- Gather together and fill out the application materials as best you can.
- Contact the International Programs Advisor if you have questions.
- Once you have all the materials together, make an appointment to review the application with the International Programs Advisor.
