What Is the Difference Between OPT and CPT? A Guide for International Students

Introduction

As an international student in the United States on an F-1 visa, you’re likely familiar with the terms Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Both programs offer valuable opportunities to gain practical experience in your field of study, but they serve different purposes and have different regulations. So, what is the difference between OPT and CPT? In this blog, we’ll explore the key differences between these two programs to help you make informed decisions about your work opportunities while studying in the U.S.

What Is OPT?

To understand what is the difference between OPT and CPT, let’s start by defining Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT is a work authorization that allows F-1 students to gain hands-on experience in their field of study. It can be used both during and after completing your academic program.

• Types of OPT:

  • Pre-completion OPT: This is used while you’re still enrolled in your degree program, and you can work part-time (up to 20 hours a week) during school sessions or full-time during breaks.
  • Post-completion OPT: This takes place after you’ve completed your degree, allowing you to work full-time for up to 12 months. If you’re in a STEM field, you may be eligible for a 24-month extension.

• Flexibility:

  • One of the major advantages of OPT is that it doesn’t need to be a required part of your curriculum, and you are free to choose where you work, as long as it is related to your major.

What Is CPT?

Now, let’s discuss Curricular Practical Training (CPT) to further clarify what is the difference between OPT and CPT. CPT is another form of work authorization for F-1 students, but it is more restrictive compared to OPT.

• Curriculum Requirement: CPT must be an integral part of your academic program, meaning the work or internship must be required for your degree or provide academic credit. It’s designed to help students apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting while they are still enrolled in their degree.
• Full-Time or Part-Time: CPT can be full-time (more than 20 hours per week) or part-time (20 hours or less per week), but if you engage in full-time CPT for 12 months or more, you lose your eligibility for OPT.
• Employer Specific: Unlike OPT, which offers flexibility in employer choice, CPT is employer-specific, meaning you can only work for the employer that is approved for your CPT by your Designated School Official (DSO).

What Is the Difference Between OPT and CPT?

Now that we’ve defined both programs, let’s dive into what is the difference between OPT and CPT in terms of eligibility, timing, and work flexibility.

• Eligibility and Timing:
  • CPT: You can begin CPT as early as your first semester if your program requires it. However, you must have a job offer in hand, and the work must be directly related to your course of study.
  • OPT: OPT, on the other hand, generally requires that you complete one full academic year before becoming eligible. You also don’t need a job offer at the time of applying for OPT, which gives you more flexibility in planning your work experience.
• Curriculum vs. Non-Curriculum:
  • CPT: Must be an integral part of your degree curriculum, often in the form of a required internship or co-op.
  • OPT: Doesn’t need to be tied to your curriculum, giving you greater freedom in selecting jobs related to your major.
• Duration and Impact:
  • CPT: Full-time CPT for 12 months or more will disqualify you from using OPT at the same degree level. Part-time CPT does not impact OPT eligibility.
  • OPT: Provides up to 12 months of work authorization, with a 24-month extension available for students in STEM fields.

Practical Tips for Deciding Between OPT and CPT

If you’re still unsure about what is the difference between OPT and CPT and how to choose between them, consider the following:

• Plan Your Career Goals: If you want to gain work experience while still enrolled in school and your program requires it, CPT may be the better option. However, if you want more flexibility in where and when you work, OPT is likely more suitable, especially after graduation.
• Consider Your Field of Study: If you’re a STEM student, the OPT extension might make OPT a more attractive option, as it allows for a longer period of work authorization compared to CPT.
• Timing Matters: CPT is great for gaining immediate experience during your studies, but if you’re aiming for long-term post-graduation work in the U.S., you’ll need to plan your use of OPT to avoid losing eligibility carefully.

Conclusion

So, what is the difference between OPT and CPT? While both are valuable work authorization programs for F-1 students, they serve different purposes. CPT is tied to your academic curriculum and allows you to work during your studies, while OPT provides more flexibility and is often used after completing your degree. Understanding the differences between these two programs will help you make informed decisions about your work experience in the U.S. and plan your academic and career path effectively.

If you need help determining which option is best for you, consult with your Designated School Official (DSO) to understand how CPT and OPT fit into your degree program and future career plans.