CPT and OPT are two types of practical training available for F-1 students. Here are the key differences between CPT and OPT:

Curricular Practical Training (CPT):

• Occurs before the student’s program end date on the Form I-20
• Authorization is for one specific employer and for a specific time period
• Student must secure the training opportunity before CPT can be authorized
• CPT must be authorized before the student can begin work
• Student can have more than one CPT authorization at the same time
• One year of full-time CPT eliminates a student’s eligibility for OPT
• CPT employment is part of the students major curriculum that allows them to work in a paid or unpaid internship, practicum, or cooperative (co-op) education program
• CPT must be required by the students major and if it is not, they must receive course credit
• Only certain employers participate in CPT

Optional Practical Training (OPT):

• Can be completed before or after graduation
• OPT employment is not employer-specific and allows work, not an internship or co-op
• OPT can be usually extended up to 24 months, whereas the CPT duration cannot be exceeded more than 12 months
• OPT can be completed before or after graduation, while CPT must be completed before graduation
• OPT is not required to be related to the students degree, but any job that one does under OPT should be related to the academic program pursued
• One year of full-time CPT eliminates a student’s eligibility for OPT

Its important to note that CPT and OPT have different eligibility requirements and application processes, so students should consult with their International Student Office on campus to determine their eligibility.