Frequently Asked Questions

OPT stands for Optional Practical Training. It is a type of work authorization that allows international students in the United States to work in their field of study after completing their degree program. OPT is granted by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and can be authorized for up to 12 months, with an additional 24-month extension available for students who graduate with degrees in certain STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and math). During the OPT period, students can work for any employer in the United States and gain practical work experience in their field of study.

CPT stands for Curricular Practical Training. It is a type of work authorization that allows international students in the United States to work off-campus as part of their academic program, such as an internship or co-op. CPT is granted by the international student's academic institution, and the work must be an integral part of the student's curriculum and related to their major field of study.

CPT stands for Curricular Practical Training. It is a type of work authorization that allows international students in the United States to work off-campus as part of their academic program, such as an internship or co-op. CPT is granted by the international student's academic institution, and the work must be an integral part of the student's curriculum and related to their major field of study.

International students who hold an F-1 student visa are permitted to work for up to 20 hours per week, but this employment must be limited to on-campus jobs only.