Full-time CPT or OPT

Day 1 CPT Universities
1

I know there is a rule about 12+ months with full-time CPT, then you are not eligible for OPT. Do people usually just give up on the OPT or do you switch to part-time after 11 months?

2

If it’s your second master, then it doesn’t matter how long you use full-time CPT. But if it’s your first master, I’d recommend that you choose a STEM program and try not to use full-time CPT for 12 months.

3

I Agree, only if you apply for DBA, i would say it’s hard to decide. Try to communicate with your company about this as early as possible.

2 Likes
4

If your company is open at all to letting you work part-time, I would definitely stay mostly part-time on CPT to not risk your OPT eligibility. The exception is like what @LA_BobaGuy said, if this is your second degree of this level and STEM designation AND you’ve already used your OPT, then it is irrelevant. However, I’m assuming that’s not the case for you.

5

I think it depends. If you only need that 11-12 months of time to extend your status here. You can totally give up the OPT.
But for most international students, they need to buy more time, hence I think maintain your eligibility of 3 years of OPT is wiser :slight_smile:

6

DBA is expensive lol

7

Two conditions can make you ineligible to apply for OPT after graduation:

:one: You have already used OPT at the same degree level before.

:two: You have done more than 12 months of full-time CPT during your current program.

8

You’re absolutely right — if you use 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you become ineligible for OPT at that degree level. That’s why many students are strategic about it.

:pushpin: Here’s what most people do:

  1. :white_check_mark: Use full-time CPT for less than 12 months (e.g., 11 months and 2 weeks), then stop or switch to part-time CPT to preserve OPT eligibility.

  2. :prohibited: Some choose to give up OPT, especially if their employer plans to sponsor them for H-1B or a green card and they’re already working full-time.

  3. :repeat_button: Others continue CPT into a new degree level, like going from a master’s to a second master’s or DBA, to reset OPT eligibility.

:date: Key tip: Always track your full-time CPT use carefully and coordinate with your DSO — don’t rely on rough estimates.