You cannot work while you are here in the U.S. on a student visa unless you are authorized to do so under OPT or CPT. OPT and CPT are both employment authorizations for students on the F-1 Visa.
- CPT stands for Curricular Practical Training:
- For undergraduate students;
- Full-time or part-time;
- Requires a signed agreement between student and employer;
- Requires enrollment in an internship class with on-the-job training;
- The training must relate directly to the student’s area of study, be part of the program of study; and
- Fee if in summer or winter.
- OPT stands for Optional Practical Training:
- Students are allowed to work for 1 year after they have completed at least one year of their education;
- For undergraduate and graduate students;
- No fee except for filing fee;
- Must relate to course of study but is not integral; and
- Can only work 20 hours a week (part-time) while school is in session.