Optional Practical Training
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is an opportunity for you to have temporary employment to gain practical experience in your field of study. Generally, an F-1 student is eligible for a MAXIMUM OF 12 MONTHS of this type of employment for each educational level (Bachelor’s, Master’s, etc.).
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STEM Optional Practical Training
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. STEM OPT provides an opportunity to extend Optional Practical Training for an additional 24 months for graduates who completed a program of study in a STEM major. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security requires that the major and the major CIP code listed on the student’s I-20 matches up with their list of STEM CIP codes. The list of Capital majors meeting these requirements is listed on the STEM OPT instructions. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security also requires that employers meet specific requirements before a STEM OPT extension can be considered. Employers must have an e-verify employment number and must also work with the employee to complete, sign and regularly evaluate the employee on form I-983; training plan. A person who is eligible for a STEM extension must file this application before the end date of their current OPT. Unlike a traditional OPT application, a STEM extension requires employment and a specific employer prior to applying.
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Curricular Practical Training
Curricular Practical Training-paid or volunteer temporary employment-is a way for students in F-1 immigration status to gain practical experience and work authorization in their field of study before they graduate. Students must be earning academic credit for the internship or clinical work during CPT, or the work must be either a required or integral part of the academic program as documented in the University Bulletin or the Student Handbook for the academic program. Eligibility requires students to have been full time in a qualifying immigration status for one academic year, or on F-1 status for one academic year. ESL students are ineligible for CPT. The controlling federal regulations is 8 C.F.R. § 214.2(f)(10).
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