Post-Graduation Work Options: Your Guide to OPT and CPT After an MS in USA

Post-graduation work options in the United States are an important knowledge area for international students after an MS study in USA. Thus, two basic routes are described: Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Both of the routes exist to provide a venue for a student to gain practical experience in a job. Here is what you need to know about each in 2024-2025:

Understanding OPT and CPT: What Are They and Why Do They Matter?

OPT and CPT are employment authorization programs for F-1 visa students meant to provide practical training related to their field of study. The use of CPT is normally while still in class; it allows work experience as part of your curriculum. While OPT is used before or after graduation with a period of up to 12 months of employment authorization—extendible for STEM students.

These programs will enable you to apply the knowledge developed so far, further enhance your skills and employability, especially when you complete your MS in US.

Eligibility Criteria: How to Qualify for OPT and CPT During and After Your Studies

Eligibility for both OPT and CPT requires that you maintain F-1 status and be enrolled full-time for at least one academic year. However, there are key differences:

• CPT requires an internship or employment that is integral to your academic curriculum. You must have a job offer before applying.
• OPT does not require a job offer at the time of application but must be directly related to your field of study. You can use OPT either before or after completing your degree.

STEM students benefit from a 24-month extension, allowing them to stay in the U.S. for up to 36 months after graduation, making the MS study in USA even more advantageous.

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying for OPT and CPT as an International Graduate

CPT Application:

• Make sure that employment is part of the curriculum for the students enrolled in the degree program.
• Get the consent from the DSO.
• Change your I-20 form and proceed to commence work on the specified date.

OPT Application:

• This application should be completed within 90 days before or 31 days after completing the MS course.
• Form I-765 should be filled out for the employment authorization document.
• Only the amount of $410 USCIS for a fee for processing is to be paid.
• This requires planning, as OPTs approved last 6 months and can be extended.

Maximizing Your Employment Opportunities: Combining CPT and OPT for Career Success

Looking at the broader picture, try to use CPT for internship purposes during the MS study in US and use post-OPT for employment after that. Nevertheless, remember:

• When you have used 12 months or more of full-time CPT, the opt becomes unusable to that person.
• When in a career related to STEM, use the opt-stem extension for the intended further employment.
• When one plans ahead strategically he or she will be able to optimize on their practical training and employment search after completion of their studies.

STEM OPT Extension: How to Stay and Work in the U.S. for Up to 3 Years

STEM students may be eligible for an additional 24-month extension, bringing the total OPT time to 36 months. Such an extension may be granted only if the student’s employment is in a STEM-designated occupation and the employer is registered with E-Verify.

This extension is a great plus for students who want to pursue an MS in USA MS STEM field, as it allows them to earn more practical experience and seek long-term employment opportunities, such as H-1B sponsorships.

Navigating the Transition: What Happens After OPT Ends? Exploring the Cap-Gap Extension and H-1B Options

When your OPT is nearing its end, you have a 60-day grace period to either leave the U.S., enroll in another program, or change your visa status. If you apply for an H-1B visa during this time, you can take advantage of the Cap-Gap Extension, allowing you to continue working while waiting for H-1B approval.

This transition from OPT to H-1B ensures continuous work authorization and is a popular route for graduates who have secured long-term positions in their field of study after completing their MS study in USA.

If you’re looking for expert guidance to navigate these work options or to apply for your MS program in the USA, Imperial Overseas Education Consultants is here to help! Our dedicated team offers one-on-one counseling to assist you in every step, from selecting the right program to securing your visa and work authorizations. With branches across the country and over 70 counselors specializing in various fields, you’ll receive tailored support to enhance your academic and career journey.

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