F1 Student Visa CPT, OPT, STEM Program Guide
If you’re looking to study in the U.S. and gain valuable work experience, the F1 Student Visa STEM program might be the perfect opportunity for you. This guide explains everything you need to know about the program, including the F1 Visa, STEM fields, and the benefits of Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT).
What is an F1 Student Visa?
The F1 Student Visa allows international students to study in the U.S. at accredited institutions. It provides legal authorization to pursue an education while adhering to U.S. immigration laws.
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. These fields are in high demand globally and offer a wide range of career opportunities. As a STEM student, you can benefit from additional work authorization in the U.S. through the OPT STEM Extension.
What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?CPT is a program that allows F1 students to work in the U.S. while studying. With CPT, you can gain hands-on experience in a field related to your major, either part-time (up to 20 hours/week) or full-time (over 20 hours/week), during your studies.
What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)?OPT allows you to work in the U.S. after graduation, (you can add Graduation logo, icon, or graduation image here) gaining practical experience in your field of study. You can work for 12 months under regular OPT, and if you’re in a STEM field, you can extend this for an additional 24 months, for a total of 36 months.
F-1 Student Visa STEM Programs
Hybrid Program Duration
- Bachelor’s Degree Program:
- The duration of the bachelor’s program is 10 semesters of coursework, 4 years.
- Credit Hours: 120 credit hours, with 12 credit hours per semester.
- Master’s Degree Program:
- The duration of the master’s program is 5 semesters of coursework that typically spans 2.5 years. You have the option to accelerate and complete it within one year.
- Credit Hours: 30 credit hours, with 6 credit hours per semester.
- Doctorate Degree Program:
- The doctorate program duration ranges from 2 to 5 years, depending on individual progress.
- Credit Hours: 60 credit hours.
Hybrid Program Campus
- Bachelor’s Degree Program:
- Detroit Education Center: Detroit, Michigan
- Master’s Degree Program:
Select from the available campus locations for your master’s degree when applying
- Detroit Education Center: Detroit, Michigan
- Phoenix Education Center: Phoenix, Arizona
- Reston Education Center: Reston, VA
- Doctorate Degree Program:
- Detroit Education Center: Detroit, Michigan
Academic Calendar
| Academic Term | Program Start Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2024 Term 2 | October 21, 2024 | Closed |
| Spring 2025 Term 1 | January 6, 2025 | Closed |
| Spring 2025 Term 2 | March 10, 2025 | Closed |
| Summer 2025 Term 1 | May 12, 2025 | Open |
| Summer 2025 Term 2 | June 23, 2025 | Open |
| Fall 2025 Term 1 | August 19, 2025 | Open |
| Fall 2025 Term 2 | October 21, 2025 | Open |
Admission Requirements
- If you are outside the USA, submit the following documents:
- Your latest acquired degree in English
- Latest transcript in English
- Valid passport copy
- Resume/CV
- English proficiency certificate
- Letter of Intent: check the following link to learn how to prepare it:
- Bank Statement
If you have a sponsor, please ask your sponsor to learn how to write a sponsor letter from the following page:
- If you are inside the USA and want to change your status, submit the documents mentioned in the previous section plus:
- English Proficiency Certificate
- To learn more about our English language requirements and available test waivers, including minimum scores and details for each degree level,
- Alternatively, you can apply directly for the easiest option, the
, which requires a 90 score at least out of 160 to be eligible for the degree mentioned above. You can take these English tests unlimited times for free until you achieve a passing score. Afterward, please pay the required fee of $70 and submit your English test score certificate to our admission office.
- To learn more about our English language requirements and available test waivers, including minimum scores and details for each degree level,
The documents should be submitted in clear PDF or JPG files, titled according to their content, and appropriately scanned using a scanning machine.
Degree Program Tuition and Fees Overview
| Degree Program | Tuition (Per Credit Hour) | Tuition (Per Month) | Estimated Total Per Academic Year | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Science in Information Systems | $299 | $750 | $8,970 | Four Years |
| Master of Business Administration | $575 | $720 | $8,625 | Two Years |
| Master of Science in Engineering Management | $575 | $720 | $8,625 | Two Years |
| Master of Science in Business Analytics | $575 | $720 | $8,625 | Two Years |
| Master of Science in Information Systems | $575 | $720 | $8,625 | Two Years |
| Doctor of Information Technology | $700 | $811 | $10,500 | Four Years |
F1 Student Visa Program Fees
Application Fees
- Free Application Submission
You can submit your application for free. This includes uploading all required documents: degree certificates, transcripts, resume, letter of intent, and other necessary paperwork.
- $105 Eligibility Processing Fee
After submitting your application, you will receive step-by-step guidance to ensure you meet the eligibility for the F-1 Student Visa program. The admission team will review your credentials, English test results, and other requirements. Upon approval, you will need to pay this processing fee via the payment link.
- $500 I-20 Form Refundable Fee
After completing the eligibility review, you will receive your acceptance letter. To issue your I-20 form, you must pay a $500 refundable fee. If your visa application is rejected at the U.S. Embassy, you can provide the rejection document (blue slip) and request a refund. Upon payment, you will receive the I-20 form within 2 weeks. The payment link will be shared with your acceptance letter.
- $210 SEVIS Preparation Fee
Once you receive your I-20 form, you can apply for the SEVIS fee and DS-160 form. We provide full support and guidance to file your SEVIS fee on your behalf and prepare you for the U.S. Embassy interview. The $210 SEVIS preparation fee can be paid here:
- $350 SEVIS Governmental Fee
This is a mandatory government fee required to schedule your U.S. Embassy appointment. Pay the $350 SEVIS fee here:
Total Fees for Applicants Outside the USA
For applicants outside the USA, an additional fee applies:
- 6. $185 DS-160 Form Fee
You will pay $185 for the DS-160 form directly to the U.S. Embassy in your local currency. We provide full support and guidance to help you successfully apply for the Embassy appointment and you can check the following page to know how to get your F1 visa approved.
Total Fees for Applicants Outside the USA: $1,350
Referral Benefit: You can earn $200 for each student you refer who pays the full fees listed above. You can either keep the $200 for yourself or split it with the referred student.
For Applicants Inside the USA
If you are already inside the USA (e.g., on a B1/B2 visa), you will need to file a change of status to an F-1 Student Visa:
- 7. $350 I-539 Form Preparation Fee
We provide full support to prepare and file your I-539 form to change your visa status. Pay the $350 preparation fee here:
- 8. $420 USCIS I-539 Governmental Fee
You must also pay the $420 USCIS government fee directly. Complete your payment here:
Total Fees for Applicants Inside the USA: $1,935
Summary of Fees
- Total Fees for Applicants Outside the USA: $1,350
- Total Fees for Applicants Inside the USA: $1,935
Finally, please fill out the following free application form to enable us to proceed with your application.
- If you’ve already applied and need to complete your application process, please visit our F-1 Admission Requirements Complete Process page.
- For any additional information or help, please email [email protected].
Contractual Pathways for U.S. Visa Programs
Windsor University supports students in exploring education opportunities in the U.S. through F-1, M-1, and J-1 visa programs. By collaborating with accredited entities, we provide guidance and resources to help students navigate their academic journey with ease and confidence.
F1 Student Visa CPT, OPT, STEM Program Guide
If you’re looking to study in the U.S. and gain valuable work experience, the F1 Student Visa STEM program might be the perfect opportunity for you. This guide explains everything you need to know about the program, including the F1 Visa, STEM fields, and the benefits of Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT).
What is an F1 Student Visa?
The F1 Student Visa allows international students to study in the U.S. at accredited institutions. It provides legal authorization to pursue an education while adhering to U.S. immigration laws.
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. These fields are in high demand globally and offer a wide range of career opportunities. As a STEM student, you can benefit from additional work authorization in the U.S. through the OPT STEM Extension.
What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?CPT is a program that allows F1 students to work in the U.S. while studying. With CPT, you can gain hands-on experience in a field related to your major, either part-time (up to 20 hours/week) or full-time (over 20 hours/week), during your studies.
What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)?OPT allows you to work in the U.S. after graduation, (you can add Graduation logo, icon, or graduation image here) gaining practical experience in your field of study. You can work for 12 months under regular OPT, and if you’re in a STEM field, you can extend this for an additional 24 months, for a total of 36 months.
F-1 Student Visa STEM Programs
Hybrid Program Duration
- Bachelor’s Degree Program:
- The duration of the bachelor’s program is 10 semesters of coursework, 4 years.
- Credit Hours: 120 credit hours, with 12 credit hours per semester.
- Master’s Degree Program:
- The duration of the master’s program is 5 semesters of coursework that typically spans 2.5 years. You have the option to accelerate and complete it within one year.
- Credit Hours: 30 credit hours, with 6 credit hours per semester.
- Doctorate Degree Program:
- The doctorate program duration ranges from 2 to 5 years, depending on individual progress.
- Credit Hours: 60 credit hours.
Hybrid Program Campus
- Bachelor’s Degree Program:
- Detroit Education Center: Detroit, Michigan
- Master’s Degree Program:
Select from the available campus locations for your master’s degree when applying
- Detroit Education Center: Detroit, Michigan
- Phoenix Education Center: Phoenix, Arizona
- Reston Education Center: Reston, VA
- Doctorate Degree Program:
- Detroit Education Center: Detroit, Michigan
Academic Calendar
| Academic Term | Program Start Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2024 Term 2 | October 21, 2024 | Closed |
| Spring 2025 Term 1 | January 6, 2025 | Closed |
| Spring 2025 Term 2 | March 10, 2025 | Closed |
| Summer 2025 Term 1 | May 12, 2025 | Open |
| Summer 2025 Term 2 | June 23, 2025 | Open |
| Fall 2025 Term 1 | August 19, 2025 | Open |
| Fall 2025 Term 2 | October 21, 2025 | Open |
Admission Requirements
- If you are outside the USA, submit the following documents:
- Your latest acquired degree in English
- Latest transcript in English
- Valid passport copy
- Resume/CV
- English proficiency certificate
- Letter of Intent: check the following link to learn how to prepare it:
- Bank Statement
If you have a sponsor, please ask your sponsor to learn how to write a sponsor letter from the following page:
- If you are inside the USA and want to change your status, submit the documents mentioned in the previous section plus:
- English Proficiency Certificate
- To learn more about our English language requirements and available test waivers, including minimum scores and details for each degree level,
- Alternatively, you can apply directly for the easiest option, the
, which requires a 90 score at least out of 160 to be eligible for the degree mentioned above. You can take these English tests unlimited times for free until you achieve a passing score. Afterward, please pay the required fee of $70 and submit your English test score certificate to our admission office.
- To learn more about our English language requirements and available test waivers, including minimum scores and details for each degree level,
The documents should be submitted in clear PDF or JPG files, titled according to their content, and appropriately scanned using a scanning machine.
Degree Program Tuition and Fees Overview
| Degree Program | Tuition (Per Credit Hour) | Tuition (Per Month) | Estimated Total Per Academic Year | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Science in Information Systems | $299 | $750 | $8,970 | Four Years |
| Master of Business Administration | $575 | $720 | $8,625 | Two Years |
| Master of Science in Engineering Management | $575 | $720 | $8,625 | Two Years |
| Master of Science in Business Analytics | $575 | $720 | $8,625 | Two Years |
| Master of Science in Information Systems | $575 | $720 | $8,625 | Two Years |
| Doctor of Information Technology | $700 | $811 | $10,500 | Four Years |
F1 Student Visa Program Fees
Application Fees
- Free Application Submission
You can submit your application for free. This includes uploading all required documents: degree certificates, transcripts, resume, letter of intent, and others.
- $105 Eligibility Processing Fee
After submitting your application, you will receive step-by-step guidance to ensure you meet the eligibility for the F-1 Student Visa program. The admission team will review your credentials, English test results, and other requirements. Upon approval, you will need to pay this processing fee via the payment link.
- $500 I-20 Form Refundable Fee
After completing the eligibility review, you will receive your acceptance letter. To issue your I-20 form, you must pay a $500 refundable fee. If your visa application is rejected at the U.S. Embassy, you can provide the rejection document (blue slip) and request a refund. Upon payment, you will receive the I-20 form within 2 weeks. The payment link will be shared with your acceptance letter.
- $210 SEVIS Preparation Fee
Once you receive your I-20 form, you can apply for the SEVIS fee and DS-160 form. We provide full support and guidance to file your SEVIS fee on your behalf and prepare you for the U.S. Embassy interview. The $210 SEVIS preparation fee can be paid here:
- $350 SEVIS Governmental Fee
This is a mandatory government fee required to schedule your U.S. Embassy appointment. Pay the $350 SEVIS fee here:
Total Fees for Applicants Outside the USA
For applicants outside the USA, an additional fee applies:
Total Fees for Applicants Outside the USA: $1,350
Referral Benefit: You can earn $200 for each student you refer who pays the full fees listed above. You can either keep the $200 for yourself or split it with the referred student.
For Applicants Inside the USA
If you are already inside the USA (e.g., on a B1/B2 visa), you will need to file a change of status to an F-1 Student Visa:
- 7. $350 I-539 Form Preparation Fee
We provide full support to prepare and file your I-539 form to change your visa status. Pay the $350 preparation fee here:
- 8. $420 USCIS I-539 Governmental Fee
You must also pay the $420 USCIS government fee directly. Complete your payment here:
Total Fees for Applicants Inside the USA: $1,935
Summary of Fees
- Total Fees for Applicants Outside the USA: $1,350
- Total Fees for Applicants Inside the USA: $1,935
Finally, please fill out the following free application form to enable us to proceed with your application.
If you’ve already applied and need to complete your application process, please visit our F-1 Admission Requirements Complete Process page.
For any additional information or help, please email [email protected].
Contractual Pathways for U.S. Visa Programs
Windsor University supports students in exploring education opportunities in the U.S. through F-1, M-1, and J-1 visa programs. By collaborating with accredited entities, we provide guidance and resources to help students navigate their academic journey with ease and confidence.
F1 Student Visa CPT, OPT, STEM Program Guide
If you’re looking to study in the U.S. and gain valuable work experience, the F1 Student Visa STEM program might be the perfect opportunity for you. This guide explains everything you need to know about the program, including the F1 Visa, STEM fields, and the benefits of Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT).
What is an F1 Student Visa?
The F1 Student Visa allows international students to study in the U.S. at accredited institutions. It provides legal authorization to pursue an education while adhering to U.S. immigration laws.
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. These fields are in high demand globally and offer a wide range of career opportunities. As a STEM student, you can benefit from additional work authorization in the U.S. through the OPT STEM Extension.
What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?)CPT is a program that allows F1 students to work in the U.S. while studying. With CPT, you can gain hands-on experience in a field related to your major, either part-time (up to 20 hours/week) or full-time (over 20 hours/week), during your studies.
What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)?OPT allows you to work in the U.S. after graduation, (you can add Graduation logo, icon, or graduation image here) gaining practical experience in your field of study. You can work for 12 months under regular OPT, and if you’re in a STEM field, you can extend this for an additional 24 months, for a total of 36 months.
Work PermitA work permit authorizes non-U.S. citizens to work legally in the United States for a specified period. According to United States Center of Immigration Services (USCIS) regulations, you are eligible to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which you can receive within 90-150 days after application.
F-1 Student Visa STEM Programs
Hybrid Program Duration
- Bachelor’s Degree Program:
- The duration of the bachelor’s program is 10 semesters of coursework, 4 years.
- Credit Hours: 120 credit hours, with 12 credit hours per semester.
- Master’s Degree Program:
- The duration of the master’s program is 5 semesters of coursework that typically spans 2.5 years. You have the option to accelerate and complete it within one year.
- Credit Hours: 30 credit hours, with 6 credit hours per semester.
- Doctorate Degree Program:
- The doctorate program duration ranges from 2 to 5 years, depending on individual progress.
- Credit Hours: 60 credit hours.
Hybrid Program Campus
- Bachelor’s Degree Program:
- Detroit Education Center: Detroit, Michigan
- Master’s Degree Program:
Select from the available campus locations for your master’s degree when applying
- Detroit Education Center: Detroit, Michigan
- Phoenix Education Center: Phoenix, Arizona
- Reston Education Center: Reston, VA
- Doctorate Degree Program:
- Detroit Education Center: Detroit, Michigan
Academic Calendar
| Academic Term | Program Start Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2024 Term 2 | October 21, 2024 | Closed |
| Spring 2025 Term 1 | January 6, 2025 | Closed |
| Spring 2025 Term 2 | March 10, 2025 | Closed |
| Summer 2025 Term 1 | May 12, 2025 | Open |
| Summer 2025 Term 2 | June 23, 2025 | Open |
| Fall 2025 Term 1 | August 19, 2025 | Open |
| Fall 2025 Term 2 | October 21, 2025 | Open |
Admission Requirements
- If you are outside the USA, submit the following documents:
- Your latest acquired degree in English
- Latest transcript in English
- Valid passport copy
- Resume/CV
- English proficiency certificate
- Letter of Intent: check the following link to learn how to prepare it:
- Bank Statement
If you have a sponsor, please ask your sponsor to learn how to write a sponsor letter from the following page:
- If you are inside the USA and want to change your status, submit the documents mentioned in the previous section plus:
- English Proficiency Certificate
- To learn more about our English language requirements and available test waivers, including minimum scores and details for each degree level,
- Alternatively, you can apply directly for the easiest option, the
, which requires a 90 score at least out of 160 to be eligible for the degree mentioned above. You can take these English tests unlimited times for free until you achieve a passing score. Afterward, please pay the required fee of $70 and submit your English test score certificate to our admission office.
- To learn more about our English language requirements and available test waivers, including minimum scores and details for each degree level,
The documents should be submitted in clear PDF or JPG files, titled according to their content, and appropriately scanned using a scanning machine.
Degree Program Tuition and Fees Overview
| Degree Program | Tuition (Per Credit Hour) | Tuition (Per Month) | Estimated Total Per Academic Year | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Science in Information Systems | $299 | $750 | $8,970 | Four Years |
| Master of Business Administration | $575 | $720 | $8,625 | Two Years |
| Master of Science in Engineering Management | $575 | $720 | $8,625 | Two Years |
| Master of Science in Business Analytics | $575 | $720 | $8,625 | Two Years |
| Master of Science in Information Systems | $575 | $720 | $8,625 | Two Years |
| Doctor of Information Technology | $700 | $811 | $10,500 | Four Years |
F1 Student Visa Program Fees
Application Fees
- Free Application Submission
You can submit your application for free. This includes uploading all required documents: degree certificates, transcripts, resume, letter of intent, and others.
- $105 Eligibility Processing Fee
After submitting your application, you will receive step-by-step guidance to ensure you meet the eligibility for the F-1 Student Visa program. The admission team will review your credentials, English test results, and other requirements. Upon approval, you will need to pay this processing fee via the payment link.
- $500 I-20 Form Refundable Fee
After completing the eligibility review, you will receive your acceptance letter. To issue your I-20 form, you must pay a $500 refundable fee. If your visa application is rejected at the U.S. Embassy, you can provide the rejection document (blue slip) and request a refund. Upon payment, you will receive the I-20 form within 2 weeks. The payment link will be shared with your acceptance letter.
- $210 SEVIS Preparation Fee
Once you receive your I-20 form, you can apply for the SEVIS fee and DS-160 form. We provide full support and guidance to file your SEVIS fee on your behalf and prepare you for the U.S. Embassy interview. The $210 SEVIS preparation fee can be paid here:
- $350 SEVIS Governmental Fee
This is a mandatory government fee required to schedule your U.S. Embassy appointment. Pay the $350 SEVIS fee here:
Total Fees for Applicants Outside the USA
For applicants outside the USA, an additional fee applies:
Total Fees for Applicants Outside the USA: $1,350
Referral Benefit: You can earn $200 for each student you refer who pays the full fees listed above. You can either keep the $200 for yourself or split it with the referred student.
For Applicants Inside the USA
If you are already inside the USA (e.g., on a B1/B2 visa), you will need to file a change of status to an F-1 Student Visa:
- 7. $350 I-539 Form Preparation Fee
We provide full support to prepare and file your I-539 form to change your visa status. Pay the $350 preparation fee here:
- 8. $420 USCIS I-539 Governmental Fee
You must also pay the $420 USCIS government fee directly. Complete your payment here:
Total Fees for Applicants Inside the USA: $1,935
Summary of Fees
- Total Fees for Applicants Outside the USA: $1,350
- Total Fees for Applicants Inside the USA: $1,935
Finally, please fill out the following free application form to enable us to proceed with your application.
If you’ve already applied and need to complete your application process, please visit our F-1 Admission Requirements Complete Process page.
For any additional information or help, please email [email protected].
Contractual Pathways for U.S. Visa Programs
Windsor University supports students in exploring education opportunities in the U.S. through F-1, M-1, and J-1 visa programs. By collaborating with accredited entities, we provide guidance and resources to help students navigate their academic journey with ease and confidence.
