CPT
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a type of work authorization that allows F-1 international students to participate in paid off-campus academic internships during their degree program. The purpose of CPT is academic, not just for employment purposes, and the internship must be considered an integral part of a student’s degree program. Graduate students requiring CPT should review the information on the Viterbi Grad CPT webpage. Undergraduate students requiring CPT should review information on the Internship & Co-Ops for Credit webpage.
OPT
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a type of work authorization that permits F-1 students to gain work experience in their field of study while in the United States. OPT is not a visa; rather, it is a type of employment benefit for F-1 students who are maintaining their visa status. Students should review the OPT information provided on the VASE website in addition to the OIS Post-Completion OPT page.
Work Authorization
U.S. employers must check to make sure all employees, regardless of citizenship or national origin, are allowed to work in the United States. Having an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is one way to prove that you are allowed to work in the United States for a specific time period. Find out more by visiting the F-1 Student Employment page.
