Need to write to your school for CPT or OPT authorization? This letter is a formal request. It asks your school to approve your Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT). Students usually need this letter when seeking internships or jobs related to their field of study.
Writing this letter can be daunting. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We understand the importance of getting it right.
In this article, we will share templates, examples, and samples of this letter. These resources will make writing easier. You can use these samples as a starting point. Tailor them to your specific situation.
Letter To School For Cpt Or Opt Authorization
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[International Student Advisor’s Name] (If known, otherwise use title)
[International Student Advisor’s Title]
[School Name]
[School Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name of Advisor],
I am writing to request authorization for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) / Optional Practical Training (OPT). I am a student at [School Name], majoring in [Your Major]. My student ID number is [Your Student ID].
I have received an internship/job offer from [Company Name] located at [Company Address]. My start date is [Start Date] and my end date is [End Date]. The position is [Job Title] and involves [Brief Description of Job Duties].
This opportunity is directly related to my field of study and will provide valuable practical experience that will enhance my academic learning. I have attached a copy of the offer letter from [Company Name], my resume, and [Optional: a detailed job description or a statement explaining how the job relates to your major].
I understand the requirements for CPT/OPT authorization and believe that I meet all eligibility criteria. Please let me know what steps I need to take to complete the authorization process and if you require any further documentation from me.
Thank you for your time and assistance.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
How to Write a Letter to School For CPT or OPT Authorization
Subject Line: Conveying Your Intent from the Get-Go
- Employ a concise subject line. Omit superfluous verbiage.
- Examples: “CPT Authorization Request – [Your Name] – [Student ID]” or “OPT Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Expected Graduation Date]”
- Directly indicate the purpose: CPT or OPT, and your identifying information.
Salutation: Initiating Professional Correspondence
- Utilize a formal salutation; eschew casual greetings.
- “Dear [International Student Advisor’s Name],” or “Dear [Designated School Official],” are appropriate.
- If the specific name is unknown, employ “Dear International Student Office,” as a last resort.
Opening Paragraph: Articulating Your Request
- Immediately state your intent. Be unambiguous.
- Example: “I am writing to formally request authorization for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for a [Full-time/Part-time] position at [Company Name], or “I am petitioning for a recommendation for Optional Practical Training (OPT) commencing [Start Date] upon graduation.”
- Briefly allude to the rationale underpinning your request (e.g., program requirements or career objectives).
Body Paragraphs: Detailing the Pertinent Information
- CPT Request:
- Elaborate on the job description and its relevance to your field of study.
- Include the start and end dates of the CPT employment.
- Specify whether the CPT is full-time or part-time.
- Provide the employer’s name, address, and contact information.
- Affirm that the CPT is a mandatory component of your curriculum or directly related to your major course of study.
- OPT Request:
- Indicate your desired OPT start date (post-graduation).
- Specify whether you are applying for pre-completion or post-completion OPT.
- Mention any previous CPT or OPT usage.
- Articulate your future career aspirations and how OPT will facilitate their attainment.
Supporting Documents: Fortifying Your Application
- Enumerate all appended documents essential for processing your request.
- Examples: Offer letter from the employer, transcript copy, I-20 copy, resume.
- Clearly state: “Please find attached the following documents in support of my application.”
Closing Paragraph: Expressing Gratitude and Availability
- Conclude with a note of appreciation for their consideration.
- Reiterate your availability to furnish any further information or documentation they may require.
- Example: “Thank you for your time and consideration. I am available to provide any additional information needed.”
Closing: Formal Sign-Off
- Employ a professional closing.
- “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” are standard.
- Affix your handwritten signature (if submitting a physical copy). If submitting digitally, type your full name.
- Type your full name beneath your signature, followed by your student ID number and contact information.
Frequently Asked Questions: Letter To School For CPT/OPT Authorization
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the letter required from your school for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT) authorization.
Understanding the requirements and process can streamline your application.
The letter should include your SEVIS ID, program of study, CPT/OPT start and end dates, type of training (CPT or OPT), employer’s name and address (if applicable), and a statement confirming that the training is directly related to your field of study. It must be printed on official school letterhead and signed by your Designated School Official (DSO).
Contact your Designated School Official (DSO) or the international student services office at your institution. They will provide you with the specific procedures for requesting the letter, which may involve completing a form or submitting specific documentation.
The processing time varies depending on the school. It is advisable to submit your request well in advance of your desired CPT/OPT start date, typically several weeks or more, to allow sufficient time for processing and issuance of the letter.
If there are any changes to your CPT/OPT plans, such as a change in employer or training dates, immediately notify your DSO. You may need to request a revised letter reflecting the updated information.
No. CPT and OPT are distinct types of work authorization. You will need a separate letter specifically for CPT and another separate letter specifically for OPT, each outlining the details relevant to the respective training period.
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