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Study Guide
Your guide to studying in the USA
Find relevant information, hear from other students, and stay caught up on the latest news at HMS.


Exemption from FICA (Social Security & Medicare) Taxes for International Students
What you need to know When you are an international student in the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa (such as F-1, J-1 or M-1) and you are considered a nonresident alien for U.S. tax purposes , you may qualify for an exemption from the payroll taxes known as FICA (the Social Security and Medicare taxes) on wages paid to you for services performed in the U.S. under certain conditions. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements: status, how to avoid withholding, and what to do if taxes


The CPT Miniseries: How CPT and OPT Work Together
International students on F-1 visas often ask: “Can I use both CPT and OPT?” The answer is yes— if you understand the rules and plan carefully . Curricular Practical Training ( CPT ) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) are both forms of work authorization for F-1 students, but they serve different purposes and are governed by different policies. This post explains how CPT and OPT relate to each other, how they’re different, and how to make the most of both opportunities wi


The CPT Miniseries: Top Accredited "Day 1 CPT" Master's Programs for International Students
For international students on F-1 visas, Curricular Practical Training (CPT) provides an opportunity to gain practical work experience...


Study STEM-designated Health Informatics or Data Analytics at Benedictine University with CPT from day 1 – Now in Two Campuses!
If you’re an international student looking for a STEM master’s program in the USA that combines academic excellence with real-world...


1-Year Master’s Degree with CPT from day 1 at Texas Wesleyan University
If you are an international student in the U.S. looking for a fast, affordable, and career-focused master’s degree , Texas Wesleyan...


Study Organizational Leadership in Tampa: New MS Program at National Louis University
If you are an international student in the U.S. looking for a graduate program that combines flexibility, career opportunities, and...


The CPT Miniseries: CPT Eligible Employment – How to Align Career Goals with Policy
For international students in the U.S. on an F-1 visa, Curricular Practical Training (CPT) provides an important bridge between...


The CPT Miniseries: Common Myths and Misconceptions about CPT
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is one of the most misunderstood aspects of maintaining F-1 status in the United States. Despite...


The CPT Miniseries: CPT Policies You Need to Know (According to USCIS and SEVP)
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows F-1 students to gain valuable work experience during their studies, but it's not as flexible...


The CPT Miniseries: How to Apply for CPT
Applying for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is not as simple as finding a job and starting work. Since CPT is a form of employment...
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