A brief difference between CPT and OPT

---> Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Curricular Practical Training gives international students authorization to gain employment training and to do paid internships. Students have the opportunity to work full-time (more than 20 hours per week) or part-time (20 hours) or less per week, earn in US dollars, and gain work experience in their area of interest. CPT must be completed before graduation as candidates are allowed to do part-time or full-time jobs. One significant point to note is that if you work full-time for 12 months in CPT, you will lose your eligibility for OPT. \\\ --->Optional Practical Training (OPT): Optional Practical Training is temporary employment that is directly related to F-1 students' major area of study. OPT allows international students with an F-1 Visa to work up to 12 months in relation to their area of study. Eligible students can apply for OPT employment authorization before completing their studies (pre-condition) or after completing their studies (post-completion). Although students are allowed to work for 12 months, however, students with a STEM degree are allowed to extend it to 17 months. Moreover, all periods of pre-completion OPT will be deducted from the available period of post-completion OPT. \\\ --->Difference between CPT and OPT: The main difference between the CPT and OPT is the period for which the candidate is eligible to work. OPT can be completed before or after graduation, CPT must be completed before graduation. Another major difference is that CPT is required for a candidate's major and if not candidate must receive course credit whereas for OPT a candidate has to earn course credit. \\\ Let me know if you'd like a more detailed differenciation. Hope this was insightful! #CommunityMentor #OPT #CPT #masters #studyabroad #USA