Practical Training Opportunities for F-1 Students

At Monroe, we understand that practical, real-world experience is just as important as classroom learning. For F-1 international students, our Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs provide structured opportunities to apply your academic knowledge in a professional environment — during your studies and after graduation.

• Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is designed to integrate practical work experience into your academic program.
• Through CPT, you can pursue internships, cooperative education, or practicum assignments that are directly tied to your coursework.
• Authorization is granted by our International Student Services office (DSO), and is recorded on a new I-20.
• You may work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) or full-time (over 20 hours), depending on how your course is structured.
• Authorization is granted on a semester-by-semester basis and must align with your academic program’s course requirements.
• Important: If you engage in a full-year (or more) of full-time CPT, you may lose eligibility for post-completion OPT.

• Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows eligible F-1 students to work in the U.S. in a job directly related to their major field of study.
• There are different types of OPT:
  • Pre-completion OPT — while you're still enrolled; part-time OR full-time.
  • Post-completion OPT — after you finish your program; must be full-time.
  • STEM OPT Extension (24-month) — for certain STEM-eligible bachelor’s and master’s programs, including Information Technology and Computer Science.
• To apply, you’ll need:
  • A recommendation from a Monroe DSO.
  • Submission of Form I-765 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
• After approval, you’ll receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which determines when you can begin working.
• Standard OPT lasts 12 months. With the STEM extension, the total can be up to 36 months for eligible students.

• Part-time work = 20 hours or less/week; Full-time = more than 20 hours.
• Academic year: defined per SEVIS policy (usually ~30 weeks for full-time study).
• You must maintain your F-1 status, report any changes, and coordinate with ISS if you plan to change roles, employers, or your training period.
• Work may start only after your authorization is granted (new I-20 for CPT or EAD for OPT).

• Integrated Learning — Our CPT program is embedded directly into academic curricula, allowing you to gain hands-on experience without pausing your studies.
• Career Preparation — OPT gives you the chance to work in your field post-graduation, helping you build your résumé and professional network.
• STEM Support — If your program qualifies, you may benefit from an extended OPT period through the STEM extension.
• Immigration Guidance — Our International Student Services team is experienced in supporting F-1 students through the CPT/OPT process, helping you maintain status and navigate paperwork.

• During your studies: Speak with ISS and your academic advisor in your first year or as soon as you have an internship offer for CPT.
• Before graduation: Meet with a DSO to start your OPT recommendation and file the required paperwork with USCIS.
• After OPT begins: You must report employment, address changes, and other relevant updates to ISS, per F-1 visa requirement

If you’re interested in applying to Monroe and want more information about using CPT or OPT as part of your future studies, please reach out to: