CPT and OPT guidance: gain real work experience as an F-1 student.
Practical training can be one of the best parts of studying in the U.S. We help you choose programs where eligible students may do CPT, and plan ahead for OPT.
Academic consulting, not legal advice. Immigration legal work is done by our partner law firm.
CPT and OPT, side by side.
| CPT (Curricular Practical Training) | OPT (Optional Practical Training) | |
|---|---|---|
| When | During your program | Usually after you finish (some during) |
| Who authorizes | Your school's DSO | USCIS, after your DSO recommends it |
| Connection | Must be part of your curriculum | Must relate to your field of study |
| Length | Set by your program | Generally up to 12 months, with a possible 24-month STEM extension for eligible degrees |
Rules and eligibility can change. Always confirm with your DSO, and with an attorney for anything legal.
What is Day 1 CPT?
Some graduate programs build practical training into the curriculum from the first term. Eligible students may start CPT right away, instead of waiting a full academic year. We know which programs in our network work this way.
How we help
Match
We match you with programs where practical training is part of the plan.
Explain
We explain, in simple words, what your school requires for CPT.
Plan
We help you plan your timeline so you don't miss an OPT window.
Refer
Questions about your specific status or work eligibility go to our partner attorneys.
What we never do
- Promise that you'll get work authorization
- Tell you to work without authorization
- Replace your DSO or an attorney
Can F-1 students work?
Only in limited ways: on-campus jobs within hour limits, and off-campus work only with authorization such as CPT or OPT.
Do I need a job offer for CPT?
Usually yes. CPT is tied to a specific employer and to your curriculum.
Does using CPT affect OPT?
It can. Generally, 12 months or more of full-time CPT removes OPT eligibility for that degree level. Plan with your DSO.
Can I do CPT in an ESL program?
Generally no. CPT is for degree programs where training is part of the curriculum.
Is Day 1 CPT legal?
When a program truly integrates training into the curriculum and the school authorizes it, yes. That's why the choice of school matters so much.
Related guides
Short, sourced guides on the topics students ask us about most.
OPT6 min readUpdated Sep 2026
OPT for F-1 Students: Timeline, STEM Extension and Common Mistakes
A plain-English guide to OPT for F-1 students: eligibility, the filing window, the STEM extension and the mistakes that cost students their work authorization.
Read the guide
CPT6 min readUpdated Sep 2026
CPT for F-1 Students: Rules, Eligibility and Day 1 CPT
CPT lets F-1 students gain real work experience as part of their program. Here is how curricular practical training works, who is eligible, and what to know before choosing a Day 1 CPT school.
Read the guide
Academic consulting, not legal advice. Immigration legal work is done by our partner law firm.
