The major difference between OPT and CPT is the period of time when you are eligible for these programs and the type of work allowed in each program. OPT can be completed before or after graduation, while CPT must be completed before graduation. CPT employment is part of your major curriculum that allows students to work in a paid or unpaid internship, practicum, or cooperative (co-op) education program. CPT must be required by your major and if it not, you must receive course credit. Only certain employers participate in CPT. Moreover, OPT is not employer specific and allows work, not an internship, and you do not need to earn course credit.

You can apply for your F-1 student visa 120 days before the start date of your course as indicated on form I-20.

The USCIS wants confidence that you will return to your home country at the end of your studies and that you are a bona fide student, genuinely interested in pursuing your studies in the U.S. This can at times include evidence of your economic interest in your home country, career goals and objectives, social roots and evidence of a sable life already built. Our legal team will work closely with you to help establish the types of documents that will look favorably in your application submission.

Form I-20 will indicate the amount of money you must have available to cover the first year of expenses. This amount will include your tuition and fees along with living expenses for you and your dependents, if applicable. If you do not have enough funds immediately available, you can have a financial sponsor included in your application. You cannot combine your funds with your sponsor, your sponsor must show they have the entire amount you will need readily available in their account.

Yes! Depending on your status you can change your status to that of an F-1 and begin your studies without having to re-enter the U.S., saving you time and money.