Work Authorization: CPT & OPT Explained
As an F-1 student, you can gain real-world work experience in the U.S. through two types of work authorization: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT). Both require advance planning and approval - you cannot begin working without the right documents in place.
⚠️ Working without authorization is a serious immigration violation that can result in loss of F-1 status and long-term bars from future U.S. visas. When in doubt, contact the International Office before accepting any work.
Use this table to understand which type of work authorization applies to your situation:
| CPT (Curricular Practical Training) | OPT (Optional Practical Training) | |
|---|---|---|
What it is | Work authorization tied directly to a course or academic requirement (e.g. internship, co-op, required practicum) | Work authorization for employment related to your field of study; it can be used before or after graduation |
Who authorizes it | Your DSO at the OCU International Office; no USCIS filing needed | USCIS; you apply through OCU, then wait for an EAD card from USCIS |
Eligibility | Enrolled for at least one full academic year; must be a required or integral part of your program | Enrolled for at least one full academic year; job must be directly related to your major |
Duration | Per semester (renewable). Full-time CPT for 12+ months eliminates standard OPT eligibility | Up to 12 months; STEM OPT extension adds 24 more months (36 total) for qualifying degrees |
When to apply | At least 2–3 weeks before the semester/work start date | Up to 90 days before graduation (for post-completion OPT). Pre-completion OPT: during studies |
Processing time | A few days (DSO approval) | 3–5 months at USCIS - apply early |
Can you work more than one job? | Only the specific employer listed on your I-20 | Yes - any employer in your field. Multiple employers allowed on OPT. |
CPT must be authorized before you begin work. Secure your job offer first, then start this process at least 2–3 weeks before your expected start date.
STEP 1Confirm eligibility | You must have been enrolled full-time for at least one full academic year before applying. Check with the International Office if you are unsure. |
STEP 2Get a job offer letter | Secure your internship or co-op position first. You need the employer's name, address, job title, and your expected start/end dates before applying. |
STEP 3Enroll in the required course | CPT must be tied to a course (e.g., an internship credit course). Register for it in the same semester as your CPT authorization. Ask your academic advisor which course applies. |
STEP 4Complete the CPT request form | Visit the international office to get the CPT request form (pdf). Need a signature from your DSO. |
STEP 5Submit to the International Office | Submit your completed CPT form, job offer letter, and course registration to the International Office. Allow at least 2–3 weeks before your start date. |
STEP 6Receive updated I-20 | Once approved, you will receive an updated I-20 listing your CPT employer and dates. Do not begin work until you have this document. |
STEP 7Apply for Social Security Number (SSN) | Once cleared from the international office, apply for an SSN. You may begin your application as soon as possible as appointment times may vary. |
OPT processing through USCIS takes 3–5 months. Apply early - this is the most time-sensitive process in your F-1 student experience.
STEP 1Apply early - up to 90 days before graduation | USCIS takes 3–5 months to process OPT applications. Missing your window can leave you without authorization after graduation. Apply as soon as you are eligible. |
STEP 2Request an OPT I-20 from the International Office | Submit your OPT request form (pdf) to the International Office. You will need to specify your desired OPT start date, which must be within 60 days of your graduation date. |
STEP 3File Form I-765 with USCIS | After receiving your OPT I-20, file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) online or by mail with USCIS along with the required fee. |
STEP 4Wait for your EAD card | USCIS will mail your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card. Do not begin working until your EAD card arrives and your start date has passed. |
STEP 5Find a job in your field | Your OPT employment must be directly related to your degree program - at least 20 hours/week for full-time OPT. You have up to 90 days of unemployment during your OPT period. |
STEP 6Report your employment to OCU | You must report your employer’s information to the International Office within 10 days of starting work. Failure to report can put your status at risk. |
STEP 7Apply for STEM OPT extension (if eligible) | If your degree is in a STEM field (check the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List), you may apply for a 24-month OPT extension through your employer using Form I-983. Apply at least 90 days before your OPT expires. |
12-Month CPT Rule: If you use full-time CPT for 12 or more months total, you lose your standard 12-month OPT benefit. Part-time CPT (20 hours/week or less) does not count toward this limit.
OPT Unemployment: You may have a total of 90 days of unemployment during your standard OPT period (60 days during STEM OPT extension). Track your employment status carefully and report to the International Office.
Reporting Requirement: All changes to your OPT employment (new employer, change of address, loss of job) must be reported to the International Office within 10 days.
