Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a program that allows eligible international students in the United States on F-1 visas to engage in practical training related to their field of study as an integral part of their curriculum. CPT is available to both Bachelor’s and Master’s degree students, but there are specific conditions and requirements that students must meet for participation:

Enrollment Requirement:
You must be a full-time student in good academic standing to be eligible for CPT.

Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Students: Generally, you must have completed at least one full academic year (two semesters) of study before becoming eligible for CPT. Some schools may have variations in this requirement, so it’s important to check with your Designated School Official (DSO) for your specific school’s policy.

Graduate (Master’s) Students: Graduate students can typically apply for CPT as soon as they begin their program, provided it’s part of their curriculum.

Curriculum Requirement:
CPT employment must be directly related to your major field of study and an integral part of your established curriculum. You will need to obtain an offer of employment that qualifies as CPT and get it approved by your DSO.

Authorization from DSO:
Before you can engage in CPT, you must receive written authorization from your DSO (Designated School Official) on your Form I-20. Your DSO will evaluate your eligibility and ensure that the CPT is appropriate for your academic program.

Limited Duration:
CPT can be either part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the academic year or full-time (more than 20 hours per week) during official school breaks (e.g., summer vacation). There is no annual limit on CPT, but engaging in 12 months or more of full-time CPT can impact your eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT).

It’s important to consult with your DSO and your school’s international student office for specific guidance and requirements related to CPT at your institution, as policies can vary from one school to another. Additionally, maintaining your F-1 visa status is crucial while participating in CPT. Violating the terms and conditions of CPT could have serious immigration consequences.

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. STEM fields are known for their emphasis on problem-solving, critical thinking, and innovation, and they are considered crucial for technological advancements and economic growth.

In the context of international students in the USA, STEM plays a significant role in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. OPT is a program that allows eligible international students in the United States on F-1 visas to work in their field of study for a specified period after completing their degree. The primary goal of OPT is to provide practical training and work experience related to the student’s major area of study.

The duration of OPT can vary for STEM and non-STEM students:

Non-STEM Students:
Non-STEM students are typically eligible for an initial period of 12 months of OPT after completing their degree program.

STEM students are eligible for an initial period of 12 months of OPT after completing their degree program, just like non-STEM students.However, the significant advantage for STEM students is that they can apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, which extends their total OPT period to 36 months (12 months initial OPT + 24 months STEM OPT extension).

It’s important to note that OPT regulations and policies can change, so it’s advisable for international students to consult with their Designated School Official (DSO) or the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for the most up-to-date information and guidance regarding OPT and STEM OPT extensions.

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa category in the United States that allows U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. It is one of the most sought-after work visas in the United States due to several reasons:

Professional Opportunities: The H-1B visa is primarily intended for highly skilled foreign workers in specialty occupations, including fields like information technology, engineering, healthcare, finance, and more. It provides an opportunity for individuals with specialized knowledge and expertise to work in the U.S.

Competitive Salaries: Employers who hire H-1B workers are required to pay them prevailing wages, which are typically competitive salaries. The H-1B non-immigrant, whether full-time or part-time, must actually receive hourly wages or an annual salary totalling at least $60,000 in the calendar year.

Dependents’ Visas: H-1B visa holders can often bring their spouse and children to the U.S. on dependent visas (H-4 visas). Dependents can accompany the primary H-1B visa holder and may be eligible to work in the U.S. under certain circumstances.

Duration of Stay: Initially, H-1B visa holders are granted up to three years of stay, with the possibility of extensions for up to a total of six years. In certain cases, extensions beyond the six-year limit are possible if the individual is in the process of obtaining permanent residency.

Path to Permanent Residency: Many H-1B visa holders view it as a potential pathway to permanent residency (Green Card) in the United States. While the H-1B visa itself is a non-immigrant visa, it can be a stepping stone toward obtaining a Green Card through employment-based immigration categories.

Due to its popularity and the limited number of H-1B visas available each fiscal year, obtaining an H-1B visa can be highly competitive. The U.S. government imposes an annual cap on the number of new H-1B visas issued, which can make it challenging for applicants to secure one. As a result, the H-1B visa program is subject to an annual lottery system, and many qualified applicants may not receive visas due to the high demand. This makes it even more sought after among international professionals seeking employment opportunities in the United States.