OPT, CPT, and H-1B Explained for CSP Students – Indian Student Guide

Understanding OPT, CPT, and H-1B: A Work Rights Guide for CSP Students

Understanding work rights is important for Indian students planning to build a career in the U.S. This guide explains the main pathways: CPT (Curricular Practical Training), OPT (Optional Practical Training), and H-1B visa. All three are key to gaining practical experience and long-term work options after studying at Concordia University, St. Paul (CSP).

1. Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

What is CPT?

  • CPT allows international students to work or intern during their studies if the job is related to their major.

  • It must be approved by the university and be part of the curriculum (credit-bearing or required training).

Eligibility for CPT at CSP:

  • Must complete at least one academic year in the U.S. before becoming eligible

  • Internship must be directly related to your program

  • Part-time (up to 20 hours/week during semester) or full-time (in summer or if allowed by CSP)

  • Requires authorization through CSP’s International Student Services (ISS)

2. Optional Practical Training (OPT)

What is OPT?

  • OPT is temporary work authorization after completing your degree

  • It allows you to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months

STEM OPT Extension:

  • If your degree is STEM-designated (e.g., MS in Data Analytics, Computer Science), you can apply for a 24-month extension

  • This gives you 36 months total of work authorization

OPT Application Guidelines:

  • Apply 90 days before or up to 60 days after graduation

  • You must have completed at least one full academic year

  • Work must be directly related to your field of study

  • Requires application to USCIS with support from CSP ISS

3. H-1B Work Visa

What is H-1B?

  • A non-immigrant visa that allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations

  • Often used after completing OPT

Key Points:

  • Requires employer sponsorship

  • Annual lottery-based selection process (limited slots)

  • If selected, status begins from October 1 of the filing year

  • STEM OPT gives multiple chances to enter the H-1B lottery (up to 3 attempts)

4. Timeline Summary

Stage
Type
Duration
Notes
During study
CPT
Part-time or full-time
Needs academic approval
After graduation
OPT
12 months
All students are eligible
STEM program extension
STEM OPT
Additional 24 months
For STEM-designated programs only
Long-term employment

H-1B Visa
Initially 3 years
Can be extended, leads to Green Card

5. CSP Support for Work Rights

  • CSP’s International Student Services (ISS) team helps with CPT and OPT paperwork

  • CSP offers career support and Interstride (a job platform for international students)

  • Students are guided through OPT filing, H-1B information, and employer education

Final Tips

  • Plan early — especially if aiming for STEM OPT and H-1B

  • Keep records of all employment and training offers

  • Stay in touch with your CSP Designated School Official (DSO) for visa compliance

  • Use your OPT time wisely to gain industry experience and build a case for sponsorship