Will working full-time on CPT for 12 months make me ineligible for OPT?
12 Oct 2026 · Answered by Geetha Muthu · 1 min read
Quick Answer
verified
Yes. Working full-time on CPT for 12 months makes you ineligible to apply for OPT. To stay eligible, work part-time on CPT, or work full-time for less than 12 months. Speak to your international student office, since rules can change.
Yes, working full-time on CPT for 12 months makes you ineligible to apply for OPT. You can protect your OPT by staying below that limit.
CPT and OPT Eligibility
| CPT pattern | OPT eligibility |
|---|---|
| Full-time CPT for 12 months | Not eligible to apply for OPT |
| Full-time CPT for less than 12 months | Eligible to apply for OPT |
| Part-time CPT | Eligible to apply for OPT |
Related CPT Rules
- The CPT process is lengthy and can take around 2 weeks at many schools, or longer during peak season.
- You need approval on your CPT I-20 before doing any paid or unpaid work.
- Your International Student and Scholar Advisor reviews your CPT application.
My Advice
Keep a running tally of your full-time CPT months and stop before you reach 12. Ask your school's international office to confirm your count in writing before you accept a long full-time CPT role.
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