Glossary · Visa classifications
F-1
Academic-student visa. Allows study + limited work via OPT and CPT.
F-1 is the student visa. Work options: CPT (Curricular Practical Training, while enrolled), OPT (Optional Practical Training, post-completion 12 months + 24-month STEM extension), and on-campus employment. Some H-1B workers facing layoff pivot to F-1 via I-539 to enroll in a graduate program. WARNING: 'Day-1 CPT' programs marketed to laid-off H-1Bs are heavily scrutinized; many have been flagged by ICE/SEVP. Use only if you have a genuine educational goal AND the school is regionally (not just nationally) accredited.
Sources & official references
- 8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(i)— F-1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT) — must be integral part of established curriculum and tied to a specific employer.
Related terms
I-539 (Change/Extend Nonimmigrant Status)
The form you file to change from H-1B to H-4, F-1, B-2, or to extend nonimmigrant status without leaving the US.
CPT (Curricular Practical Training)
F-1 work authorization tied to a specific course requirement or internship — granted by the school, not USCIS.
OPT (Optional Practical Training)
12 months of post-completion work authorization on F-1, granted by USCIS via I-765.
STEM OPT
24-month extension of OPT for F-1 graduates of designated STEM programs employed by E-Verify employers.
Day-1 CPT
F-1 graduate programs that authorize CPT (work) from the first day of enrollment. Heavily scrutinized; many flagged by ICE/SEVP.
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