Can I Work Full-Time on CPT or Do OPT After CPT?
For Indian students planning to study in the USA in 2025, understanding the difference between CPT and OPT is crucial for maximizing work opportunities and long-term career goals. Both are essential work authorization options for F-1 visa holders, but their rules, timing, and benefits differ significantly, impacting study and post-study plans.
CPT vs OPT in USA: Key Differences at a Glance (2025)
| Feature | CPT (Curricular Practical Training) | OPT (Optional Practical Training) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Practical training, internships or work experience as part of curriculum before graduation | Practical work experience during/after graduation—not mandatory for degree |
| Eligibility | F-1 visa, enrolled for 1+ academic year | F-1 visa, enrolled for 1+ academic year |
| When Can You Use | During study (not after graduation) | Before completion (Pre-OPT) or after completion (Post-OPT) |
| Authorization | By university’s international student office (DSO & ISS) | By USCIS (U.S. government) |
| Duration | Up to 12 months; cannot extend; full-time CPT ≥12 months disqualifies you from OPT | Up to 12 months; STEM extension: +24 months possible |
| Employer Specific? | Yes (authorized job only) | No (any field-relevant employer) |
| Application Fee | None | USD 410 (2025) |
| Work Type & Timing | Part-time (≤20 hrs/wk) or full-time (≤40 hrs/wk) | Pre-completion OPT: Part-time; Post-completion OPT: Full-time |
While both CPT and OPT let international students gain practical work experience in the USA, they differ in application process, timing, costs, and eligibility for future work visa options. Making the right choice is vital if you plan to leverage US study for global career growth.
Top US Universities with Outstanding CPT & OPT Opportunities (2025)
| University | Top Programs | CPT/OPT Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | STEM, Business, Engineering | Major US recruiters, strong STEM-OPT network |
| Stanford University | Computer Science, MBA | High-tech OPT jobs, flexible CPT internships |
| Arizona State University | MS, Engineering, Business | Affordable, active career services for F1 students |
| Northeastern University | Co-op, STEM, Management | Top CPT co-op programs |
| University of Texas at Austin | Engineering, Economics | Strong post-OPT hiring stats |
For more guidance, see our page on Top 100 US Universities and how to leverage OPT/CPT for real career outcomes.
Who is Eligible? Entry Criteria for CPT and OPT (2025 Intake)
- Valid F-1 Student Visa status in the USA
- Enrolled for at least one full academic year (exceptions for graduate programs with required internships from day one)
- CPT: Job/internship must be part of your curriculum and approved by academic department
- OPT: Practical training must be directly related to your major field of study
- Cannot have previously completed full-time CPT for 12 months if applying for OPT
- For STEM-OPT: Degree must be listed under eligible STEM fields (STEM overview)
Required Exams: Most US universities require English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS) and, for master’s or business studies, GRE or GMAT scores.
What is the Difference Between CPT and OPT in the USA for 2025?
- CPT (Curricular Practical Training) is work experience integrated into your degree, allowed only during your studies.
- OPT (Optional Practical Training) allows you to work up to 12 months after graduation. STEM fields can extend OPT by 24 months.
- Both require active F-1 visa status and must be directly related to your field of study.
- Full-time CPT for 12 months means no OPT allowed. Plan your internships wisely for maximum US work experience.
How to Apply for CPT and OPT: Stepwise Process
- Consult your university’s international student advisor for exact eligibility and process.
- CPT: Secure an approved internship/job offer, complete any college-required CPT courses, and submit university application for CPT. Get CPT authorization on new I-20.
- OPT: Apply to USCIS using Form I-765 (along with supporting documents). Get an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to start working.
- Plan ahead—OPT can take 1–3 months for approval!
TIP: Learn about USA admission intakes and deadlines so your work experience aligns with academic periods.
Documents Required for CPT & OPT in 2025
| Document | CPT | OPT |
|---|---|---|
| Job Offer Letter | Required (on employer letterhead) | Not needed for application |
| I-20 | Updated with CPT info | Updated with OPT recommendation |
| Passport-size Photos | May be required by college | 2 required |
| Form I-94 | Printout required | Printout required |
| Application Fee | None | USD 410 |
Universities may request additional documents such as academic recommendations or training certificates for CPT. For OPT, previous I-20s and any earlier EAD cards are often required.
Fees & Scholarships for Indian Students: 2025 Outlook
| Cost Category | Typical Range (2025) |
|---|---|
| Tuition (per year) | USD 20,000–55,000 (varies by university/program) |
| Living Expense (per month) | USD 800–2,000 (city/location dependent) |
| CPT Application Fee | None |
| OPT Application Fee | USD 410 |
- Explore top scholarship options—Merit and need-based for international students
- Ask your university about work-study opportunities and part-time campus jobs
For affordable US colleges and application tips, see Cheap Universities in USA.
CPT & OPT Visa Rules (2025): Timelines and Tips
- CPT Approval: 5–7 business days (by university)
- OPT Approval: 1–3 months (by USCIS); apply up to 90 days before program end date
- STEM OPT Extension: Apply before initial OPT expires; must have STEM degree & eligible employer
- All F-1 students must maintain full-time enrollment (except during post-completion OPT)
- Keep all your I-20s and authorization records safe for future visas
Career Opportunities and Post-Study Work Pathways
| Sector | Popular Roles After OPT/CPT | Salary Range (USD/year) |
|---|---|---|
| Tech / IT | Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Business Analyst | 80,000–140,000 |
| Business / Finance | Financial Analyst, Marketing Specialist | 70,000–120,000 |
| Engineering | Mechanical/Electronics Engineer, Product Manager | 80,000–130,000 |
| Healthcare | Healthcare Analyst, Research Assistant | 60,000–100,000 |
- CPT and OPT help build real American work experience—boosting your H-1B visa chances
- STEM-OPT helps extend your stay by 2 extra years for in-demand roles (What is STEM?)
- Success stories: Indian alumni have joined top firms like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft via OPT routes
Careful planning of CPT/OPT can be a gateway to high-paying jobs and permanent residency in the US. Check average US salaries by industry here: Average Salary in USA.
In summary, both CPT and OPT offer unique advantages for Indian and international students seeking practical experience in the US. Make your decision based on your degree structure, work goals, and plans for post-study work or immigration. Always verify the latest 2025 rules with your university’s international office for a smooth, successful study abroad journey.
FAQs on CPT vs OPT: What International Students Need to Know in 2025
1. Is CPT different from OPT?
Yes, CPT (Curricular Practical Training) and OPT (Optional Practical Training) are different types of off-campus work authorizations for F1 international students in the USA.
CPT is for practical training integral to your curriculum, such as internships or cooperative education, and must be part of your degree program. OPT is a temporary work authorization for work directly related to your major, available after you complete (or, in some cases, before you complete) your degree. Both have distinct application processes, durations, and eligibility requirements.
2. Can I work 40 hours on CPT?
Yes, F1 students can work 40 hours or more per week under full-time CPT during official school breaks or if approved for full-time CPT by their Designated School Official (DSO). During the regular academic year, CPT is typically limited to part-time (20 hours or less per week) unless otherwise approved. Be sure to confirm with your school's international office for specific restrictions and guidance.
3. Can I do OPT if I did CPT?
Yes, you can apply for OPT even if you have previously used CPT, as long as you did not participate in 12 months or more of full-time CPT at the same educational level. If you used 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you become ineligible for OPT at that degree level; however, part-time CPT does not impact OPT eligibility.
4. What is an OPT visa in the USA?
OPT (Optional Practical Training) is not a separate visa but a work authorization for F1 visa holders. It allows international students to work off-campus in jobs directly related to their major area of study, usually after graduation (post-completion OPT) or sometimes before completion (pre-completion OPT). OPT can be granted for up to 12 months, with a possible 24-month extension for certain STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) majors.
5. What is the difference between CPT and OPT for F1 students?
The main differences between CPT and OPT for F1 students are timing, eligibility, and purpose.
- CPT: Must be part of the curriculum and approved before the internship or job. You can use CPT while still enrolled as a student.
- OPT: Can be pre-completion (during studies) or post-completion (after graduation), not usually tied to academic requirements. OPT allows work related to your field but isn't part of course credit or degree structure.
6. What is the difference between CPT and Pre-completion OPT?
CPT and pre-completion OPT both allow F1 students to gain practical experience while still enrolled, but differ in significant ways.
- CPT is for internships or practical training that is a required part of your degree program or offers academic credit.
- Pre-completion OPT is not tied to course requirements and can be used for any qualifying job related to your major, but counts against your total OPT period (reducing time available after graduation).
7. Can I use both CPT and OPT?
Yes, you can use both CPT and OPT during your studies, as long as you do not exceed 12 months of full-time CPT. Only full-time CPT for 12 months or more makes you ineligible for OPT; part-time CPT does not affect your future OPT eligibility. Always consult your Designated School Official (DSO) before making plans.
8. How do I apply for CPT?
To apply for CPT, follow these steps:
- Obtain a job offer related to your major and integral to your curriculum.
- Request CPT authorization from your school's DSO (Designated School Official).
- Work with your academic department to confirm eligibility and course registration if needed.
- Receive a new Form I-20 with CPT approval before starting work.
9. What are the CPT rules for F1 visa holders?
CPT rules for F1 visa students include:
- CPT must be related to your major and integral to your program of study.
- Usually, you must have completed at least one full academic year (unless required by the program).
- CPT must be authorized by your DSO, with a new I-20 issued before employment starts.
- Part-time CPT is 20 hours or less per week, while full-time CPT is more than 20 hours per week.
- 12 or more months of full-time CPT at one degree level makes you ineligible for OPT.
10. What is STEM OPT?
STEM OPT is a 24-month extension of post-completion OPT for F1 students who earned a U.S. degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) major. To be eligible, your employer must participate in E-Verify and your degree must be on the DHS-approved STEM list. You must apply before your regular OPT period ends and work in a position directly related to your STEM field.
11. What is the duration of CPT for F1 students?
The duration of CPT depends on your academic program, but there is no set maximum for part-time CPT. However, if you accumulate 12 months of full-time CPT at one degree level, you lose eligibility for OPT at the same level. Consult your academic and international office for your school's specific limits and guidance.
12. What do I need to know about OPT and CPT as an international student in the USA?
OPT and CPT are essential work authorization options for F1 international students in the USA:
- CPT: Work related to your major and part of your academic program; must be approved before beginning employment.
- OPT: Temporary employment directly related to your major, available before or after graduation. Up to 12 months, extended to 36 months for eligible STEM students.
- Planning: Meet with your DSO to review timelines, eligibility, and how use of CPT might impact OPT in the future.
