– Differences between CPT and OPT –
Differences between CPT and OPT: This article is going to provide an informative contrast to the differences between CPT and OPT. For more information about their definitions and differences, just stay glued to this post.
Knowing the difference between an OPT and CPT can be quite confusing for some students, it was the same too for me years ago. So in this article, I will be doing one major thing, and that expatiating on what these terms are all about their differences.
Difference Between OPT and CPT
Alongside taking tests, completing assignments, and attending class, involving in practical experience is a growing attribute of a US college education.
For many students, getting job training prior to arriving at their professional careers is an important aspect of their education.
Luckily, international students with an F1 visa can also join their peers in this internship and training experiences via optional practical training (OPT) and curricular practical training (CPT) employment.
The two are apparently very common, so in this article, we show you the differences between the two!
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What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
The OPT permits students to gain practical training within their field of study while still working toward their degree, or after they have graduated.
When students are admitted to an OPT, they are competent to legally work within the US with no worker’s permit or another form of visa.
OPTs have two types
1. Pre-Completion OPT: this type permits students to work up to 20 hours a week while still enrolled in school
2. Post-Completion OPT allows recent graduates to work full time for up to 12 months in the US with no another visa.
Optional practical training can be done for up to 12 months while there are extensions for those studying fields in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
To be suitable for the 24-month extension, they have already granted the student OPT and have made their degree.
If they meet those necessities, they can then submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, which, if approved, will grant an extra 24 months to work in the US without another visa.
The OPT is one of the finest ways students can outspread their time in the US post-graduation to work legally, and many students even will receive a job offer once their OPT ends.
This allows them to start the process for a work visa, or even a green card for permanent residency.
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What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?
The CPT achieves a student’s program requirement for experience within the student’s field of study. The necessities, therefore, are a bit more severe compared to the OPT.
For instance, they must list the employer on the student’s I-20 and the training must occur before the program ends.
Many educational programs need students to gain practical experience before graduation, often through an internship or apprenticeship.
Additional Information
According to the USCIS, these training experiences comprise “any alternative work/study, internship, cooperative education, or other types of required internship or practicum that is obtainable by sponsoring employers via cooperative agreements with the school.”
The CPT lets international students legally achieve this requirement without needing another visa or a work permit.
For some programs, a course is required to be taken along with CPT. You can learn more about whether your school needs CPT through an international student counselor or an academic counselor.
Many schools have a devoted office to help students apply for and register in CPT.
What is the Difference between OPT and CPT?
The main difference between OPT and CPT is the time in which you are qualified for these programs and the type of work allowed in each program.
OPT can be finished before or after graduation, while CPT must be finished before graduation. CPT employment is part of your main curriculum that allows students to work in a paid or unpaid internship, practicum, or cooperative (co-op) education program.
CPT must be needed by your major and if it is not, you must get course credit. Only certain employers partake in CPT.
Alternately, OPT is not employer-specific and allows work, not an internship or co-op, and you do not need to earn course credit.
Which Program is Right for You?
Now that you know more about CPT vs. OPT, you’ll be better armed to inquire about your DSO questions and make the best of your college education in the States.
STEM students may want to take advantage of OPT and its extension period, buts some r students need to look at the necessities posed by their majors and educational institution to conclude
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FAQs on Differences between CPT and OPT
Below are the frequently asked questions on differences between CPT and OPT
1. Is CPT the same as OPT?
The major difference between OPT and CPT is the time period in which you are eligible for these programs and the type of work allowed in each program.
OPT can be completed before or after graduation, while CPT must be completed before graduation.
2. Is CPT the same as EAD?
NO EAD is required for CPT
3. Can I go from CPT to OPT?
CPT requires a signed cooperative agreement or a letter from your employer. If you have 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you are ineligible for OPT.
4. Can I do OPT after CPT?
Yes, as long as you do not engage in full-time CPT (that is, more than 20 hours/week) for a cumulative total of 12 months.
5. Can I apply for green card while on CPT?
You can apply for many Day 1 CPTs to maintain your status, which still doesn’t have any effect on your green card processing.
6. Can you get paid on CPT?
Yes, you can
7. What is CPT for F-1 student?
CPT is any alternative work/study, internship, cooperative education, or other type of required internship.
8. Can I work 2 full-time jobs on OPT?
You may work for more than one employer or job, but all employment must be related to your degree program.
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StudentsandScholarship Team.
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