Lots of International students have American dreams. In addition to getting a fine education, they also intend to get meaningful work experience while they’re there. But if you’re here on an F-1 student visa, not just any job is open to you. The United States government imposes special rules on student work.
If you’re getting confused or do not know how to proceed, you should not worry about it. You should approach the well-experienced study visa consultants. They will help you at every step with their experience. As well as they can assist you in understanding your rights and options. They can help you with filling in paperwork, and they can ensure you do not come outside of the rules if you decide to study and work.
Can I work in the U.S with a student visa? Easy guide to CPT and OPT
Read the information thoroughly before applying for a USA study visa:
Definition of F-1 Student Visa?
The F-1 visa is a type of student visa. It is designed for individuals seeking to pursue full-time studies in the United States. It is awarded to students attending a college, university, or other approved institution. The main aim of this visa is to study. But in the U.S., students are allowed to work with this visa, though with certain caveats and with the right permission.
Can You Work on an F-1 Visa?
You can work while studying in the United States on an F-1 visa, but with restrictions. You must follow the rules. There are three primary avenues for international students to work:
Work opportunity facility on campus: Your school will employ you in jobs like working in the library, cafeteria, or office. You may work up to 20 hours per week during classes and full-time during vacations. This work is the easiest kind and does not require special governmental approval — only your school’s approval.
CPT (Curricular Practical Training): This enables you to work off-campus while studying, but only if it is a part of your course. For instance, if your degree contains an internship, you can use CPT for legal work.
OPT (Optional Practical Training): This allows you to work after finishing your studies. You must apply and get approval from the US immigration office.
What is CPT?
CPT Meaning: Curricular Practical Training. It is a form of employment off campus as part of your study program. It could be an internship, training, or work experience as part of your course. For instance, if you’re an engineering student and your program wants you to do an internship, you can do that through CPT.
If you are interested in working under CPT, you must have completed at least one academic year in the U.S. Your work has to be related to your course of study, and you have to have permission from your school. You can do part-time work of 20 hours a week during your semester. If you work on CPT for 12 months or more, then opt will not be provided to you.
What Is OPT?
OPT is short for Optional Practical Training. It enables you to work once you graduate; often, you are even able to work while studying. The job has to be related to your college major. The OPT visa allows many students to get real work experience in the U.S. after they graduate.
There are two types of OPT:
- Pre-completion OPT: You do this while still in school (not as common).
- Post-completion OPT: You apply for this after you complete your degree (most common).
You are eligible to work up to 12 months on OPT. If your degree is in a field related to science (STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math), then you could apply for a 24-month extension, giving a total of 36 months of work. You must file your application with USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and immigration services).
If you are still confused about what the difference is between the CPT and OPT, then you should approach the USA study visa consultants. Their experts will guide you properly because they have been in this field for the last more than 20 years. They are experts; they will guide you every step.
Conclusion
Yes, you can work in the United States. However, you will have to follow the rules. You can work on campus or off campus through CPT and OPT. These programs allow the student to gain practical work experience as well.
