F-1 Employment
Practical Training
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.
Practical training authorization is automatically terminated if you transfer to another school or resume studies in a full-time degree program. Self-employment does not qualify as practical training. Students are considered to be in F-1 status during any authorized periods of practical training.
Optional Practical Training
OPT is temporary employment in your field of study for purposes of gaining practical experience. It may be paid or unpaid. Many students 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 advisor in International Programs & Exchanges and your Academic Advisor, and authorized by U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS).
You are eligible to participate in Optional Practical Training (OPT) for a maximum of 12 months per academic level. If you complete another degree at a higher educational level, you become eligible for 12 more months of OPT. For example, you may apply for OPT after completing a BachelorŐs degree and then again after completing a MasterŐs degree and then again after completing a Ph.D.
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.
Part-time OPT is available while enrolled in a full course of study, provided employment for OPT does not exceed 20 hours per week. Every two months of OPT authorized at the part-time rate deducts one month from the 12 month total.
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.
- You must apply for OPT before you complete your degree. USCIS will reject any application for practical training received after the degree completion date. It is recommended that you mail your application to USCIS as early as four months in advance. Do not begin working until USCIS sends you an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). The EAD is a photo-identification card, similar in shape and size to a driverŐs license, on which is noted the beginning and ending dates of the employment authorization.
On-campus employment is not permitted after you complete your studies. If you are transferring schools, you may work on campus only at the school having jurisdiction over your SEVIS record and I-20.
Applying for OPT:
If you would like to apply for OPT, review the information below, gather together and fill out the application materials as best you can, and contact the International Programs & Exchanges if you have questions. Once you have all the materials together, make an appointment with the Advisor for final review of the application.
Curricular Practical Training
CPT is an integral part of an established curriculum. It is an internship, practicum, or work study 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 the advisor in International Programs & Exchanges and your Academic Advisor. Curricular Practical Training may be authorized at either a full-time rate (employment over 20 hours per week) or part-time rate. Part-time training must be undertaken concurrent with a full course of study. Students who are authorized one year or more of full-time Curricular Practical Training lose their eligibility for Optional Practical Training.
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.
Applying for CPT:
If you would like to apply for CPT, review the information below, gather together and fill out the application materials as best you can, and contact International Programs & Exchanges if you have questions. Once you have all the materials together, make an appointment with the Advisor for final review of the application.