Could someone clarify the 12-month CPT and OPT rule? Does using 12 months of CPT disqualify you from OPT?
If full-time CPT exceeds 12 months, you will not be eligible to apply for OPT. Part-time CPT has no restrictions on applying for OPT.
Two conditions can make you ineligible to apply for OPT after graduation:
You have already used OPT at the same degree level before.
You have done more than 12 months of full-time CPT during your current program.
Yes! The rule is:
If you use 12 months or more of full-time CPT , you lose eligibility for OPT at that degree level.
Here’s how it works:
• Part-time CPT (20 hrs/week or less): Doesn’t count toward the 12-month limit
• Full-time CPT (more than 20 hrs/week): Counts toward the 12-month limit
• If you accumulate 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you cannot apply for OPT after graduation
• Using less than 12 months of full-time CPT (even 11 months and 29 days) does not affect your OPT eligibility