We’ve funded 20,000+ educational dreams — act now and fund yours with loans up to US$100,000! We’ve funded 20,000+ educational dreams — act now and fund yours!

Affordable U.S. master’s programs with high ROI for Nepali students

For many Nepali students, studying overseas in the U.S. is more than an academic goal. It’s a strategic investment. But that investment comes with risk, especially when tuition, housing and living costs feel overwhelming.

So how do you choose a program that balances cost with real earning potential? The answer is to look for low-cost master’s programs that lead to high-paying jobs. You don’t need to attend an Ivy League school to earn a strong salary. What matters is choosing a degree with proven job demand, strong optional practical training (OPT) and temporary, nonimmigrant (H-1B) visa outcomes and career pathways that scale over time.

This article explores how Nepali students can find U.S. master’s programs that are affordable, visa-friendly and connected to careers that can realistically reach six-figure earning potential.

What defines “low cost” for U.S. master’s programs?

A low-cost master’s program doesn’t just mean cheap tuition. It means a program that offers good value. These are typically:

Examples include public universities in Texas, Florida, North Carolina or the Midwest. While some may not rank in the top 10 nationally, they offer respected programs in STEM, business and health care fields.

Fields that lead to strong earnings and job security

Choosing the right international study program means choosing a field where your skills are valued, employers are hiring and you can grow your income over time. For many Nepali students, the best return on investment comes from programs that combine real-world application, OPT eligibility and long-term visa sponsorship potential.

Here are some fields that tend to offer those advantages.

Computer science and data science

These fields consistently lead to strong job outcomes. Roles in software engineering, machine learning and data analysis are available across industries, from finance to health care to education. Many Nepali graduates in these programs find full-time work during OPT and use that experience to qualify for H-1B sponsorship.

Common roles:

Why it works:
Strong starting salaries, high demand and flexibility across sectors

Business analytics and information systems

These programs teach you how to solve business problems using data and technology. You don’t need a coding background to succeed, these degrees are often more accessible to students with business or math backgrounds.

Common roles:

Why it works:
Clear job relevance, broad hiring across industries and strong OPT demand

Engineering (mechanical, software, electrical, civil)

Engineering remains one of the most stable and respected fields for international students. Civil and mechanical engineers often work in infrastructure, transportation or manufacturing, while electrical engineers move into energy, hardware and telecommunications roles.

Common roles:

Why it works:
STEM OPT eligibility, consistent demand and transferable global skills

Cybersecurity

This is one of the fastest-growing areas in tech. U.S. companies are actively hiring security analysts, compliance experts and cloud security specialists. These roles often require less coding than traditional software jobs but still offer strong pay and advancement potential.

Common roles:

Why it works:
Urgent hiring demand, flexible entry points and competitive compensation

How MPOWER Financing helps Nepali students access affordable, high-return programs

MPOWER Financing supports Nepali students who want to make a smart investment in their future. If you’ve found a low-cost U.S. master’s program that matches your goals but need help with master’s degree funding, MPOWER may be a good fit.

Here’s what makes MPOWER ideal for value-focused students:

With MPOWER, you don’t need family land or a guarantor to access high-quality education. And you don’t have to sacrifice your goals to manage short-term costs.

Check Eligibility

How to evaluate return on investment (ROI) beyond rankings

Some Nepali students and families choose schools based on brand names or rankings alone. But to make a smart financial choice, consider these practical questions instead:

Remember, the path to a six-figure career is not always immediate. But a program that offers access to international student internships, practical training and in-demand job roles can help you build toward it.

Remote work side hustles that keep Nepali F-1 students SEVIS-compliant

Many Nepali students in the U.S. look for ways to earn extra income while studying, especially when family support is limited or tuition and living expenses are higher than expected. But working off campus without proper authorization can put your F-1 visa at risk.

That’s where remote work side hustles come in. With the right setup and permissions, some students can take on flexible online roles while staying compliant with U.S. immigration rules. This article breaks down what is allowed, what isn’t and how to explore what jobs are appropriate during your degree.

Understand the F-1 visa work rules first

Before jumping into a remote job, make sure you understand how work authorization works for U.S. student visas.

Even if a remote job pays through an international platform or seems “freelance,” it still counts as work under F-1 visa rules.

What kind of remote work is allowed?

You can only take on remote or freelance jobs if they fall under one of the following approved categories:

1. On-campus jobs that are remote

Some campus jobs may allow you to work from your apartment or dorm. For example, if you’re a teaching assistant or IT support worker and your department permits online shifts, that’s fine.

Make sure:

2. CPT-authorized internships that allow remote work

If your internship is approved under CPT and your employer allows remote work, you can work from home legally.

Make sure:

3. OPT-approved remote work after graduation

Once you’re approved for OPT jobs for international students, you can work remotely for U.S. companies or international employers, as long as the job is related to your degree.

Make sure:

Remote income ideas that may seem safe but are not

Many students from Nepal have heard of online jobs like freelancing or tutoring as easy international student job opportunities. But under F-1 rules, these roles are not allowed unless properly authorized.

Avoid these common risky income sources:

Even if the money is small or the work is “just a side project,” it still counts as unauthorized employment unless tied to a school-approved program.

Stay focused on safe work opportunities

For many Nepali students, the urge to earn money quickly can lead to visa risks, especially when funding is tight. MPOWER Financing helps reduce that pressure by offering no-cosigner student loans that cover both tuition and living expenses.

That means you can say no to risky jobs and instead focus on your studies and approved work opportunities like CPT or on-campus roles.

MPOWER also supports your success through:

With MPOWER, you have space to prioritize long-term success rather than short-term risk.

Check your eligibility

How Nepali students can build skills legally

If earning money is not an option yet, there are still smart ways to build experience and prepare for future income:

No credit? No problem. How Nepali students can qualify for U.S. loans

If you’re a Nepali student planning to study in the U.S. or Canada, you’ve probably run into one frustrating problem – most lenders ask for a U.S. credit history, a cosigner or both. But as someone who hasn’t lived or worked in North America yet, how can you meet those requirements?

The good news is, a growing number of lenders now offer private international student loans that do not require a U.S. credit score. Some even provide no-cosigner loans based on your academic background and future earning potential. This article explains how Nepali students can qualify, what to expect and what to avoid.

Why U.S. credit history matters and why you probably don’t have one

In most traditional lending systems, a credit score tells lenders how trustworthy you are when it comes to paying back debt. These scores are based on your history of borrowing and repayment through credit cards, bank loans or utilities.

As a new international student, you likely:

Without a credit score, many traditional banks or private lenders will not approve you for a loan. Or they’ll require a cosigner with U.S. citizenship or permanent residency. That’s where alternative options become essential.

How international lenders approve loans without credit history

Some lenders now use nontraditional methods to assess your ability to repay a loan. They focus on your future, not your past.

These lenders evaluate:

You may still need to provide some documents, such as:

But you will not need to provide a U.S. credit score or a financial guarantor if the loan is truly no-cosigner and credit-free.

Nepali students can qualify with no credit history

MPOWER Financing offers no-credit-history, no-cosigner student loans designed specifically for international students from countries like Nepal. That means you don’t need a credit score, collateral or a guarantor to apply.

What MPOWER offers:

You can apply entirely online and receive a decision quickly. If approved, MPOWER sends the funds directly to your university so you can focus on your studies.

For Nepali students who want to invest in their education without depending on family assets or credit history, MPOWER offers a clear and accessible path forward.

Check your eligibility

What to look for in a no-credit-history student loan

Not all lenders offering loans without a credit score are transparent. Some education loan providers may still ask for a cosigner, charge high hidden fees or start repayment during your studies.

Here’s some guidance on what to consider when comparing lenders:

Feature

What to look for

Collateral or cosigner

Not required

Approval requirements

Based on school, program and visa

Interest rate type

Fixed rates are easier for planning

Loan coverage

Tuition, housing and insurance (U.S. only)

Repayment start

Repayment during school: Varies by lender; often deferred, or small, fixed payments or interest-only

After graduation: A grace period is common but not guaranteed; confirm length in your offer terms

Transparency

Clear terms with no surprise charges

Support resources

Help with budgeting, job search and more

Why this matters for Nepali applicants

No-cosigner student loans are not just about money. They’re about opportunity and peace of mind.

Fixed vs. variable rates: Which should Nepali students choose?

If you’re a Nepali student considering aninternational student loan, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is choosing between a fixed or variable interest rate. This choice affects how much you’ll repay over time, how predictable your monthly payments will be and how much financial risk you’re willing to take on while studying in the U.S. or Canada.

While both options have pros and cons, the best choice depends on your personal situation, risk tolerance and postgraduation plans. This article breaks it down so you can decide what works best for you.

What is a fixed interest rate?

A fixed rate student loan ensures your interest rate stays the same for the entire life of your loan, regardless of what happens in the broader economy.

Pros of fixed rate student loans

Cons of fixed rate student loans

Fixed rates work well for students who value stability and want to avoid financial surprises, especially during their optional practical training (OPT) or post-graduation work permit (PGWP) job search period.

What is a variable interest rate?

A variable interest rate can change over time. It’s typically tied to a benchmark rate, such as the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) in the U.S. or a similar rate in Canada. If that benchmark goes up or down, your interest rate will follow.

Pros of variable-rate student loans

Cons of variable-rate student loans

Variable rates can work well for students who expect to pay off their postgraduate education loan quickly or who are comfortable with financial risk.

A quick comparison: Fixed vs. variable

Feature

Fixed interest rate

Variable interest rate

Monthly payment

Always the same

Can change over time

Risk of rate increase

None

Rates can go up

Initial rate

Can be higher

Usually lower

Good for

Long-term planning and stability

Short-term loans or high-risk takers

Bad for

Taking advantage of market drops

Budgeting or tight cash flow

How MPOWER Financing helps Nepali students choose international student loans wisely

MPOWER Financing offers fixed interest rate loans to eligible Nepali students pursuing degrees in the U.S. or Canada. That means your loan terms stay the same from start to finish, no matter what happens with global interest rates.

With MPOWER, there’s:

MPOWER loans are designed to help you plan confidently while focusing on your degree and long-term career. If you’re comparing master’s degree funding options and want to avoid financial uncertainty, a fixed-rate MPOWER loan can offer the stability you need.

Check your eligibility

Why student loan interest rates matter more for Nepali students

Many Nepali families are converting savings from rupees to U.S. or Canadian dollars to support their children’s education. A small increase in interest rates can create real financial stress, especially when that increase is combined with exchange rate fluctuations or unexpected job search delays.

Additionally, students on OPT or PGWP may not find high-paying jobs right away. Fixed-rate loans help remove one layer of uncertainty during that transition period. They also make it easier to plan remittances or repay family support without worrying about your loan suddenly becoming more expensive.

For many Nepali students, fixed-rate loans offer more peace of mind, even if the rate starts out slightly higher.

How Nepali students can fund medical school in the U.S.

Becoming a doctor is a lifelong dream for many Nepali students, but attending medical school in the U.S. can feel financially impossible. With tuition fees often exceeding US$60,000 per year and limited funding available for international students, most assume it’s out of reach unless they come from a wealthy background.

But it is possible. If you plan early, understand your options and are open to nontraditional funding routes like no-cosigner student loans, you can find a path to a U.S. medical degree, even if your family cannot support you financially.

This article breaks down what you need to know about scholarships, loan options and important considerations before applying to medical school in the U.S. as a Nepali student.

The reality of medical school costs in the U.S.

U.S. medical schools are among the most expensive academic programs in the world. On average, tuition alone ranges from US$40,000 to US$65,000 per year, and total yearly costs can reach US$80,000 when you include housing, supplies and insurance.

For Nepali students, these numbers often seem impossible. Local banks may not approve student loans of this size, especially without collateral. Family assets may be limited. And few schools offer full financial aid to international medical students.

But many Nepali students are making it work. They do it through a mix of:

Scholarships for international medical students

There are very few full international scholarships for international medical students in the U.S., but some partial options do exist. Start looking as early as possible, ideally before or during your undergraduate studies.

Where to look:

Realistically, most Nepali students will need to combine scholarships with international student loans to make medical school affordable.

Loan options for Nepali medical students

Nepali banks rarely approve loans large enough to cover U.S. medical school costs unless the student’s family owns significant land or assets. Even then, repayment terms may start immediately, adding pressure before you even begin your clinical training.

Private international student loans are a better fit for many aspiring doctors, especially those pursuing postgraduate degrees in approved medical or health-related programs.

No-cosigner loans for future doctors

Some lenders now offer no-cosigner loans based on your degree program and future earning potential. These loans do not require land, gold or a financial guarantor.

What to look for:

You’ll need to verify whether your specific program, such as MD, DO or global health, is covered by the lender before applying.

MPOWER Financing supports aspiring Nepali doctors

MPOWER Financing offers no-cosigner loans for eligible international students pursuing graduate-level degrees in health and medicine. If you’re a Nepali student accepted to a participating U.S. medical or health sciences program, MPOWER may be able to help you fill the funding gap.

Here’s how MPOWER stands out:

MPOWER supports many health-related master’s degrees and dual programs. If you’re pursuing medicine with a global or public health focus, you may find options that align with your goals.

Do U.S. medical schools accept international students?

Yes, but not all of them. Only about 40 to 50 U.S. medical schools actively accept international applicants. These schools vary widely in their policies and funding availability.

What to look for:

Keep in mind that competition is intense. You’ll need strong academics, a competitive MCAT score and proof that you can cover the full cost of attendance unless you qualify for aid.

 

Check your eligibility

MBA funding for Nepali students: Combine scholarships and no-cosigner loans

Earning an MBA in the U.S. or Canada is a major step for many Nepali students looking to grow their careers, expand their networks and increase long-term earning potential. But with program costs often reaching tens of thousands of U.S. dollars per year, financing educationcan feel like the biggest obstacle.

For most Nepali MBA students, there’s typically not one single funding source that covers all costs. The best approach blends merit-based scholarships, partial university support and international student loans. Done right, this combination lets you access world-class business education without risking your family’s assets or giving up career flexibility after graduation.

What makes MBA programs challenging to finance?

Compared to other postgraduate degrees, MBA programs tend to cost more and offer fewer built-in funding options. Unlike STEM master’s programs that often include research assistantships or departmental grants, MBAs are typically self-funded and highly competitive.

Financial realities Nepali students face

Because of these barriers, many qualified applicants delay or abandon their MBA plans, or settle for schools based on affordability alone rather than return on investment (ROI). But with the right mix of support, it’s possible to pursue a program that matches both your ambition and your budget.

Scholarships available for Nepali MBA students

International scholarships can significantly reduce your loan burden if you apply early and strategically. While full scholarships are rare, partial funding from the university or external sources can make a real difference when combined with a no-cosigner loan.

What types of scholarships are available?

How to increase your chances

Many students from Nepal focus only on getting admitted and then start searching for funding. But the strongest scholarship applications are built into your initial application. Consider funding as part of your strategy from day one.

How MPOWER Financing helps Nepali students fund their MBA smartly

MPOWER Financing offers no-cosigner student loans tailored for international graduate students, including those in MBA programs. For Nepali applicants, this opens up access to programs that would otherwise be financially out of reach.

What MPOWER offers:

MPOWER also offers scholarships for international students, so you can fund part of your MBA with university support and fill the gap with a no-cosigner student loan.

If you’re ready to make your MBA goal a reality, without putting family assets at risk, MPOWER can be part of a smarter, more sustainable strategy.

Check Eligibility

Why no-cosigner loans are a game changer for Nepali MBA students

In Nepal, most bank loans require families to pledge land, provide verified income and serve as cosigners. For students from non-urban areas or whose families cannot show documented wealth, this can feel impossible.

No-cosigner loans offer a different model. Instead of asking for what you already have, they look at what you are about to build. These loans are based on:

Why this matters for Nepali applicants

No-cosigner student loans are not just about money. They’re about opportunity and peace of mind.

Private vs. Nepali bank loans: Compare to find what’s best for international students?

When you’re accepted to a U.S. or Canadian university, the next big issue is how to pay for it. For Nepali students, that often means choosing between two very different options: private international student loans or education loans from banks in Nepal.

At first glance, Nepali bank loans may seem more familiar or less risky. But the full cost of student loans goes beyond just the interest rate. You have to consider collateral, currency, repayment timing, family pressure and long-term planning.

This article compares the true cost and tradeoffs of both options, so you can make a choice that supports your goals, not just your short-term survival.

What Nepali bank loans offer (and require)

Most overseas education loans from Nepali banks are designed for students going abroad. These loans usually cover tuition, living expenses, insurance and travel costs. But they also come with strict conditions.

Common requirements:

Even if the interest rate seems lower, these requirements can create long-term pressure on your family. If your parents can’t repay or something delays your job search after graduation, family property could be at risk.

How private international student loans work

Private international lenders offer loans directly to students, usually in U.S. or Canadian dollars. These private international student loans are designed to fit international degree programs, including repayment timelines that match your job search period after graduation.

Key features:

These private student loans may have higher interest rates than Nepali bank loans on paper. But the benefits of visa and job support, currency alignment and independence can reduce financial stress and risk over time.

Hidden costs to consider

When comparing loan options, don’t just focus on the interest rate. Look at the full picture.

Cost factor

Nepali bank loan

MPOWER Financing

Collateral required

Yes (land, home or gold)

No

Cosigner required

Usually a parent or guardian

No

Repayment currency

Nepali rupees

U.S. or Canadian dollars

Start of repayment

During studies or soon after

Interest-only payments during school, full payments 6 months after graduation

Family financial risk

High if property is pledged

None

Loan usage flexibility

May be limited

Include tuition, housing and insurance (tuition and university-invoiced expenses in Canada)

Approval process

Can be slower with more paperwork

Online, fast for eligible students

For many Nepali students, the hidden cost of putting family property at risk is an important consideration.

MPOWER Financing helps Nepali students compare with confidence

MPOWER Financing offers private international student loans with no cosigner and no collateral. That means you can apply on your own, based on your academic background and future goals, not your family’s land or bank statements.

What sets MPOWER apart:

MPOWER loans are disbursed directly to your university and can be managed entirely online. That gives you more control, more time to focus on your studies and fewer financial risks to your family back home.

If you want to fund your degree with confidence, not compromise, MPOWER gives you a real alternative.

Check your eligibility

What to consider before choosing

Ask yourself:

Every student’s situation is different. For some, a collateral-based loan from Nepal may work best. For others, the ability to apply without a cosigner, receive job and visa support and manage the loan independently is worth more.

Collateral-free education loans for Nepalis: Fund your degree without property

For many Nepali students studying overseas, the biggest roadblock to studying in the U.S. or Canada is not university acceptance; it’s finding the money to go. Even talented, motivated students are often told their plans are impossible because their families cannot provide land, gold or other assets as loan security.

But collateral-free loans, also known as bina dhito loans, offer a different path. These options are designed for students who want to finance their education without using family property as collateral. If you’ve been admitted to a top university but feel stuck because of financial limitations, this guide is for you.

What is a collateral-free (bina dhito) loan?

A collateral-free loan is a student loan that does not require any form of property or asset as security. In Nepal, these are often called bina dhito loans, and while local banks rarely offer them, private education loan lenders are starting to fill the gap.

Instead of asking for land or a family guarantee, these loans look at your:

These loans are ideal for students pursuing postgraduate degrees who may not come from wealthy families but are ready to invest in their future.

Why collateral is a problem for many Nepali families

Most private education loans from Nepali banks require physical collateral, usually in the form of:

This structure creates serious barriers for students from rural areas, single-parent households or families without documented assets. Even students with strong academic profiles and university admission may get rejected for loans simply because their parents do not own land.

That’s why many students give up on studying abroad, not because they’re unqualified, but because the financial system is out of reach.

How international collateral-free loans solve this

Some international lenders now offer no-collateral, no-cosigner student loans to students from countries including Nepal. These loans are designed to support your education based on where you’re going, not what you own.

Key features include:

This gives Nepali students the freedom to move forward on their own terms. You don’t have to delay your education while waiting to build assets or convince your family to risk what they own.

Bina dhito loan options with MPOWER Financing

MPOWER Financing offers true no-collateral loans for Nepali students accepted to select universities in the U.S. and Canada. These loans are designed for students who want a clear, independent path to study abroad, without risking family property or relying on a cosigner.

MPOWER loans include:

MPOWER also helps Nepali students understand repayment terms in simple language, with budgeting tools that match your goals. If you need funding and your family cannot offer assets, MPOWER can help you move forward with confidence.

 

Learn more

 

How to find a good collateral-free loan

Not all lenders are equal. Some may advertise low rates but hide extra fees or make repayment confusing. Others may ask for unofficial “guarantees” even if they claim to be collateral-free.

Here’s what to look for in a trustworthy lender:

If a lender avoids your questions, pressures you to sign quickly or makes vague promises, that’s a sign to walk away.

A postgraduate STEM or business degree in the U.S. or Canada is within your reach with Bina dhito loans for your education.  

Check your eligibility

No-Cosigner Loans: A Shortcut to U.S. & Canadian Funding for Nepali Students

Getting accepted to a postgraduate program at a university abroad is a huge milestone, but for many Nepali students, it is only half the challenge. The other half is finding a way to pay for higher education  without collateral, without a cosigner and without overwhelming family pressure.

Traditional student loans in Nepal often require land as security or a family guarantor. If your parents cannot pledge property or meet strict income requirements, you may feel like your study abroad plan is over before it begins.

No-cosigner student loans offer another path. These loans are designed for international students who qualify on their own, without needing a cosigner, collateral or a long credit history. For Nepali students, that can make all the difference.

Why cosigners are a major barrier in Nepal

Most banks in Nepal offer study abroad loans only if a student’s family can provide:

But not every student has access to that kind of support. Even families who value education may not have the resources to qualify for a loan. And getting a cosigner in the U.S. or Canada is rarely possible for first-time international students.

This system leaves many qualified, hardworking Nepali students with few options, especially if they come from middle- or lower-income households.

What is a no-cosigner international student loan?

A no-cosigner loan is a type of private student loan that is based on your academic potential, not your family’s finances. These Bina dhito loans are issued by international lenders that specialize in supporting global students.

Unlike traditional loans, no-cosigner options do not require:

Instead, your eligibility is based on your university, degree program and future earning potential. These loans are typically available to students who have already received admission to a recognized U.S. or Canadian university for a postgraduate STEM or business degree.

MPOWER Financing supports Nepali students with no-cosigner loans

MPOWER Financing specializes in providing no-cosigner loans for international students in the U.S. and Canada. For Nepali students, MPOWER offers a simplified process that removes traditional roadblocks.

Here’s how MPOWER makes it easier:

Nepali students often face uncertainty around loan terms and repayment expectations. MPOWER’s approach is designed to reduce confusion, offer clarity and make higher education more accessible, especially for students who are motivated but unsupported by traditional lenders.

If you’ve been admitted to a university but don’t have a cosigner or collateral, this could be your opportunity to turn that offer letter into a real future.

 

Check your eligibility

 

Why this opportunity matters for Nepali students

For many students in Nepal, education loans are viewed as a family obligation. Parents may sell land, borrow from relatives or co-sign risky loans just to make overseas education possible. This can create stress for both students and families.

No-cosigner loans offer an alternative that allows you to:

With the right lender, these loans also come with transparent terms and flexible repayment options, giving you more control over your future.

What you need to know about CPT, OPT and working as an F-1 student

If you’re studying in the U.S. on anF-1 visa, you may be wondering when and how you can access international student job opportunities. While the F-1 visa is primarily for full-time study, there are options to gain real-world experience through legal employment. The two main types of work authorization are curricular practical training (CPT) and optional practical training (OPT).

This guide explains what each one allows, when you can use them and how to stay within the rules as an F-1 student.

On-campus work: Where most students start

Before exploring CPT or OPT, it’s worth understanding what is allowed on campus. F-1 students are permitted to work on campus part-time during the academic year and full time during official school breaks.

Typical on-campus jobs include:

You do not need additional authorization for on-campus work, but your total hours must remain under 20 per week during the semester. You must also report your job to your school’s designated school official (DSO).

What is CPT and when can you use it?

Curricular practical training (CPT) for international students is temporary work authorization that allows you to participate in paid or unpaid internships, co-op programs or practicum work that is part of your academic program.

Key facts about CPT:

Be careful not to use full-time CPT for 12 months or more, or you will lose eligibility for OPT later. Most students use CPT during the summer or as part of required internship courses.

What is OPT and how is it different?

Optional practical training (OPT) jobs for international students refers to work authorization that allows you to work in your field of study before or after graduation.

There are two types:

You’re eligible for up to 12 months of OPT per academic level. If you’re in a science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) program, you may qualify for an additional 24-month extension, known as STEM OPT.

Unlike CPT, OPT requires you to:

OPT offers more flexibility than CPT. You do not need a job offer to apply, and you can change employers if your job remains in your field.

CPT vs OPT: What to consider

Here is a quick comparison:

Feature

CPT

OPT

Requires course credit

Yes

No

Requires job offer to apply

Yes

No

Work start timeline

During your degree

During or after your degree

Who approves it

Your DSO

USCIS and your DSO

Employer flexibility

Job-specific

Not employer-specific

Maximum duration

No official limit, but 12+ months full time affects OPT

12 months, or 36 with STEM extension

Choosing between CPT and OPT depends on when you want to work and what your program allows. Talk to your DSO early to map out the best timeline.

Stay within the rules when working on an F-1 visa

Working without authorization can put your visa status at risk. Always:

If your visa is terminated for unauthorized employment, it can affect your ability to remain in or return to the U.S.

Plan ahead with financial support that fits F-1 rules

Many international students use MPOWER Financing to support their education while staying fully compliant with F-1 visa guidelines. MPOWER loans are designed for students who may not have a U.S. cosigner or credit history.

You can use an MPOWER loan to:

MPOWER works with F-1 students at approved universities and offers support throughout your studies, including visa planning resources and career tools.

Use work opportunities to build your future

As an F-1 student, you can gain valuable work experience while staying within visa rules. Whether you pursue an on-campus job, CPT internship or post-completion OPT, the key is to understand your options and plan ahead.

With the right approvals and preparation, working during your studies can support your career goals without risking your immigration status.


*Rates as low as 9.99% (10.89% APR). This interest rate and APR includes a 0.25% discount for automatic recurring payments.

DISCLAIMER – Subject to credit approval, loans are made by Bank of Lake Mills or MPOWER Financing, PBC. Bank of Lake Mills does not have an ownership interest in MPOWER Financing. Neither MPOWER Financing nor Bank of Lake Mills is affiliated with the school you attended or are attending. Bank of Lake Mills is Member FDIC. None of the information contained in this website constitutes a recommendation, solicitation or offer by MPOWER Financing or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments or other assets or provide any investment advice or service.

2025 © MPOWER Financing, Public Benefit Corporation NMLS ID #1233542

U.S. office India office
1101 Connecticut Ave. NW Suite 900, Washington, DC 20036 The Cube at Karle Town Center, 9th Floor, 100 Ft, Nada Prabhu Kempe Gowda Main Road, Next to Nagavara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560045, India

Apply Now