CPT vs OPT - Key Difference You Should Know in 2024

Before delving into the difference between OPT and CPT, let’s know what is CPT.

CPT, or Curricular Practical Training, is a program that allows international students on F-1 visas to gain practical, hands-on experience directly related to their field of study. This can include internships, cooperative education programs, or any other work-study programs integral to the established curriculum.

Below, you can check the top features of Curricular Practical Training.

• Only during an academic program (before the expiration date on an I-20) may one use CPT.

• The university's overseas office has granted CPT authorisation for a certain company and for a specified amount of time.

• A qualifying student may participate in CPT part-time (less than 20 hours per week) or full-time (more than 20 hours per week) as often as they choose.

• Students considering the CPT to OPT conversion should be aware that they will not be eligible for OPT (a further kind of work authorisation covered later) at the same degree level if they have utilised 12 months or more of full-time CPT. OPT eligibility is unaffected by part-time CPT. 

Once you know about the CPT, let’s understand what is OPT.

OPT or Optional Practical Training is an employment authorisation program for F-1 visa holders. OPT offers an opportunity for temporary employment directly related to their major area of study. OPT can be used both before and after the completion of the academic program, providing flexibility for students to engage in practical training.

Below, you can check the top features of Optional Practical Training.

• It's essential to remember that students are not qualified to apply for CPT once their OPT time has ended.

• Part-time (less than 20 hours per week) or full-time (more than 20 hours per week) OPT is available for pre-completion (OPT used prior to the expiration date on an I-20).

• Post-completion OPT (OPT used before the expiration date on an I-20) is limited to full-time employment. After completing the program, F-1 students can apply to USCIS for post-completion OPT. Students can often apply for it up to three months in advance of the course completion date and up to one month after finishing all of their degree requirements. Additionally, USCIS will reduce your pre-completion OPT time from your post-completion OPT authorised period if you have already taken part in pre-completion OPT.

• If you are prepared to submit an OPT application, you may get further information about the procedure and required documents by getting in touch with your university's international office.

CPT has 2 variants – Required CPT and Optional CPT. Both have different purposes and importance while studying in the USA.

• Required CPT - This is necessary if your institution or college mandates that all graduates get real-world experience to be admitted.

• Optional CPT - This should be relevant to your study area but is not required for your degree. 

There are 4 types of OPT, which are as follows - 

• Pre- Completion OPT

• Post-Completion OPT

• 24-Month OPT Extension

• Cap-Gap OPT Extension

Each variant has specific eligibility criteria and durations, impacting when and how students can engage in practical training related to their studies.

Also, Read: Upcoming Intakes to Study in USA

Below, you can check the major difference between OPT and CPT.

Understanding the minimum eligibility criteria for CPT and OPT is necessary to ensure that students can seamlessly integrate practical training into their educational journey. Below, you can check the complete eligibility for CPT and OPT.

• You must have an active F-1 Status.

• You must be enrolled full-time in one academic year before the work is performed.

• You must be registered for a degree program at a recognised US university with SEVP certification.

• You must possess a particular employment offer that fulfils the requirements of the educational institution for the required course, degree, or co-op program.

• You must have an active F-1 Status.

• Enlist full-time for a complete academic year before completing the task.

• You must enrol in a degree program in a U.S. higher education institution that has been accredited and SEVP certified.

• A job offer is not necessary to qualify for OPT. However, it is recommended: And that you work on projects that are closely relevant to your field of study.

• You must not have utilised CPT for 12 months or longer.

• You must not have utilised any OPT at a higher degree level or the 12 months of OPT at the same degree level.

A detailed discussion of CPT and OPT in 2024 offered you adequate knowledge of the nuances, differences, and key features of these crucial employment authorisation programs. Whether students want to integrate work into the academic curriculum through CPT or explore flexible, practical training options with OPT, they can make informed decisions to enhance their educational and professional journeys.

We hope the blog based on the difference between OPT and CPT is useful and informative to you. However, if you are seeking more information regarding the same, contact our expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC).  You can also take free online counselling through our website. Our expert counsellors will provide you with the best support and guidance you need for admission and visa. In addition, they will help you shortlist the universities according to your profile. For more information or any queries, contact application02@meridean.org or 1800-1230-00011. 

Q1. Can I participate in both CPT and OPT?

Ans. Yes, it's possible to participate in both CPT and OPT, but the eligibility criteria and timing must be carefully considered.

Q2. Is there a limit to the duration of CPT and OPT combined?

Ans. Yes, there are limits to the combined duration of CPT and OPT. 

Q3. Can I extend my OPT if I change my academic program?

Ans. It depends on various factors. Changing academic programs may impact OPT eligibility, and students should seek guidance from the designated school official (DSO). 

Q4. Are there any restrictions on the type of employment allowed under OPT?

Ans. OPT allows various types of employment, including internships, regular employment, and volunteer work, as long as they are directly related to the student's major area of study.