CPT and OPT are the two work authorisation options available to F-1 students in the US. They are different in timing, purpose, and how you apply. Confusing them is a common and costly mistake.

CPT stands for Curricular Practical Training. It lets you work off-campus as part of your academic programme, such as internships or co-ops that are required or integral to your degree. CPT is authorised by your Designated School Official at your university, not by USCIS. You apply through your international student office. You cannot do CPT unless the work is directly tied to your academic programme. Also important: if you use 12 or more months of full-time CPT, you lose eligibility for OPT entirely.

OPT stands for Optional Practical Training. This is the main post-graduation work authorisation for F-1 students. You get 12 months of OPT to work anywhere in the US in a field related to your degree. If your degree is in a STEM field, you can apply for a 24-month extension, giving you 36 months total.

To apply for OPT, you request a new I-20 from your DSO authorising OPT, then file Form I-765 with USCIS. You can apply up to 90 days before your programme end date and no later than 60 days after it ends. Processing takes two to four months so applying early is critical. You cannot start working until you receive your EAD card.

During OPT, you must remain employed in a job related to your degree for at least 20 hours per week. Unemployment counts against your total OPT time. You are allowed a maximum of 90 days of unemployment during standard OPT and 150 days during STEM OPT extension. Track these days carefully because USCIS monitors them through SEVIS reporting.