One such being, the practical training option that can immensely boost a student’s profile in addition to providing hands-on experience in his area of study. Broadly speaking, there are two types of practical training options. The Optional Practical Training (OPT) and the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) that students may apply for on a Student Visa USA. We have listed the points of comparison between the two trainings.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

• The training directly relates to the student’s study area and it is an integral part of the student’s curriculum.
• The CPT is usually done part-time (20 hours per week).
• The Designated school official (DSO) authorizes CPT in the SEVIS database and the authorization is printed on the student’s Form I-20.
• The CPT has to take place before the  program end date mentioned on the Form I-20.
• It is an option for work, internship, or cooperative education, that is offered by sponsoring employers through agreements with the school.
• An entire year’s wort of CPT results in an ineligibility of the student for an OPT.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

• This training is not a part of the student’s academic curriculum and is done in addition to the prescribed curriculum. However, it must be ensured that the student meets USA Study Visa Requirements and maintain the F-1 status. Also, the training is directly in relation to the student’s area of study.
• The OPT is of the following types; 1. Pre-completion OPT: Before course completion and allowed part-time during academic session and full-time during vacation. 2. Post-completion OPT: After course is completed and allowed full-time.
• DSO needs to recommend OPT in SEVIS and authorized by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) is needed. An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is issued to the student.
• The student is allowed to work for any employer, provided that the training relates to the student’s area of study.
• When the student changes to a higher educational level, he is eligible for an additional 12 months of OPT which needs to be authorized.
• Students who receive degrees in STEM courses can extend the duration of their OPT for 24 months in addition to the initial 12-month period.

However, before a student is enrolled at his desired school and gets the benefit of US education, he needs to secure the US Study Abroad Student Visa by successfully applying for the visa, meeting the visa requirements, and cracking the visa interview. To get expert visa assistance, the student is advised to take the help of overseas education consultants and streamline the entire process.   

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Different USA Student Visa