U.S. OPT and CPT Explained: Work Opportunities for International Students in 2025

Navigating work opportunities as an international student in the United States can be both exciting and challenging. With the evolving immigration policies and changing employment trends, knowing your legal options for working during and after your studies is essential. Two of the most important work authorization programs for international students on F-1 visas are Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT). These programs provide avenues for students to gain valuable work experience, support themselves financially, and build a career foundation in the U.S. job market.

This article provides a comprehensive explanation of OPT and CPT in 2025, including their eligibility criteria, application process, differences, and tips for success.

Definition and Purpose
OPT is a temporary employment authorization granted to F-1 visa holders. It allows international students to work in their field of study to gain practical experience either during or after completing their academic programs.

Types of OPT

• Pre-Completion OPT: Work authorization granted before graduation.
• Post-Completion OPT: Work authorization granted after completing your degree.
• STEM OPT Extension: A 24-month extension for students with degrees in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM).

Eligibility Requirements

• Must have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year.
• Must be in valid F-1 status.
• Work must be directly related to the major area of study.

Application Timeline

• You can apply up to 90 days before and 60 days after your program end date.
• USCIS processing can take 2–4 months, so early planning is critical.

Key Benefits of OPT

• Work up to 12 months after graduation.
• STEM graduates can apply for 24-month extension, totaling up to 36 months of work.
• No job offer is required to apply.

Definition and Purpose
CPT is a form of work authorization that allows F-1 students to participate in paid or unpaid internships, cooperative education, or other off-campus work directly related to their field of study while still enrolled in their academic program.

When to Use CPT

• During your studies when the work is an integral part of your curriculum.
• Often used for internships, co-ops, or practicums required by your degree.

Eligibility Criteria

• Must have completed at least one academic year in full-time study (except for graduate programs requiring immediate CPT).
• The job must be part of your program’s curriculum.
• You must receive authorization from your Designated School Official (DSO) before starting work.

CPT Types

• Part-Time CPT: Less than 20 hours/week; does not affect OPT eligibility.
• Full-Time CPT: More than 20 hours/week; if used for 12 months or more, you lose eligibility for OPT.

Application Process

• Coordinated through your university’s international office.
• No separate application to USCIS; faster approval process.
• Must have a job offer before applying.

Timing of Employment

• OPT: Can be used pre- or post-graduation.
• CPT: Must be used before graduation.

Approval Process

• OPT: Requires filing an application with USCIS (Form I-765).
• CPT: Approved directly by the university’s DSO.

Job Offer Requirement

• OPT: No job offer needed when applying.
• CPT: A job offer is required.

Impact on OPT Eligibility

• Using more than 12 months of full-time CPT makes you ineligible for OPT.
• Part-time CPT has no impact on OPT eligibility.

Step-by-Step Process

• Request OPT recommendation from your DSO.
• Receive a new I-20 form with OPT recommendation.
• File Form I-765 online or by mail with USCIS.
• Submit required documents, including I-20, passport, photos, and payment.
• Track your EAD (Employment Authorization Document) status.

Important Notes

• Make sure to not begin working until your EAD card is received and the start date is valid.
• You can work for multiple employers, as long as jobs relate to your major.
• Report employment and address changes via the SEVP Portal.

CPT Authorization Steps

• Get a job offer letter relevant to your field of study.
• Enroll in a course or program component requiring practical training.
• Request CPT through your international student office.
• Receive updated I-20 form with CPT approval.

Documents Required

• Job offer letter with job title, duties, dates, and employer details.
• Proof of course enrollment.
• CPT application form provided by your institution.

Who Qualifies

• Students with degrees in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, mathematics).
• Must be on post-completion OPT and employed by an E-Verify employer.

Extension Duration

• Adds 24 months to your existing 12-month post-completion OPT.

Application Process

• File Form I-765 with STEM OPT documents before current OPT expires.
• You may continue working for up to 180 days while the STEM application is pending.

Employer Requirements

• Must use E-Verify.
• Must complete Form I-983 training plan with the student.
• Employers must commit to mentoring and evaluating the student’s work.

Delayed USCIS Processing

• Apply early and monitor application status.
• Use premium mailing and ensure all documentation is accurate.

Finding a Job Related to Your Major

• Use university career services.
• Join professional networks and job fairs.
• Consider remote or part-time internships to gain experience.

Maintaining Status

• Never exceed unemployment limits (90 days for OPT, 150 days for STEM OPT).
• Report any changes in employment or address promptly.

Digital Application for OPT
USCIS continues to improve its online portal for I-765. In 2025, more students are expected to file digitally, streamlining the process and reducing errors.

H-1B Bridge from OPT
Many students plan to transition from OPT to H-1B work visas. Make sure your employer is capable of filing during the annual H-1B lottery in March–April.

Increased USCIS Fees
New USCIS fee structure in 2025 may slightly increase the cost of I-765 applications. Always check the latest fee schedule before filing.

Stay Organized
Keep all important documents—passport, visa, I-20, and work authorization—in one place and always updated.

Talk to Your DSO
Always communicate with your university’s international office before making any decisions about employment.

Document Everything
Maintain records of job offers, employment duties, and related academic coursework to prove eligibility if needed.

Plan Ahead
Work authorization takes time. Start preparing at least 4–5 months before graduation to avoid missing deadlines.

Conclusion

For international students in the U.S., OPT and CPT represent vital opportunities to gain professional experience, enhance academic learning, and build a career path in one of the most competitive job markets in the world. While both programs have their own rules and timelines, they offer flexibility and significant benefits when used wisely.

As 2025 brings further developments in immigration policy and employment trends, it’s more important than ever to stay informed, meet all requirements, and plan ahead. Whether you’re considering an internship during your studies or a job after graduation, knowing the ins and outs of OPT and CPT can set you on the path to success.