Stage 8 · Lesson 6 of 8
CPT, OPT and STEM OPT in the US
F-1 students can work on campus up to 20 hours a week during term. (CPT) allows internships that are an integral part of the curriculum, usually after one academic year. (OPT) gives up to 12 months of work related to your field, during or after the degree.
Graduates of eligible STEM degrees (science, technology, engineering and maths) can apply for a 24-month extension, called STEM OPT. Your school's , the staff member who handles student visa records, recommends OPT, and USCIS decides.
Under the 2026 fixed admission period rule, work beyond your admission end date needs an extension of stay. OPT is a form of , but it is not a long-term work visa, and is a separate process.
Common trapapplying late, because OPT applications have strict windows.
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Resources for this stage
Start with
- GuideFreeStudy in the States
US Department of Homeland Security
Official rules on on-campus work, CPT, OPT and STEM OPT