Do I need to apply for a work authorization (CPT) to participate in the ADC bridge programs?

hey there :)

For CPT, it depends on the exact structure of the bridge programme and your university’s rules. I would definitely confirm with your international student office before participating, rather than assuming it counts as a workshop and therefore does not require authorization.

For STEM OPT, the key issue is whether the employment is directly related to your STEM degree. It isn’t automatically disqualifying just because the employer is an MBB firm, but you need to be able to establish that relationship and meet the STEM OPT requirements. Your DSO and the employer’s immigration team should be able to confirm this for your specific degree and role.

Best, Alessa :)

Hi there,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your questions:

• First of all, whether you need a CPT for a bridge program depends on how the program is classified. Rules differ a lot between universities, so I would strongly advise you to clarify this with your international student office and the recruiting team of the consulting firm before participating, since only they can tell you for certain.
• Moreover, STEM OPT is tied to your degree and not to the content of your job. So the relevant question is whether your degree program is STEM-designated. If it is, you can generally use the STEM OPT extension while working at MBB, and the consulting firms are used to supporting the required paperwork.
• Lastly, please keep in mind that visa questions are too important to settle in a forum. I would strongly advise you to get both points confirmed in writing by your university and, once you have an offer, by the mobility team of the consulting firm.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hi there,

Do not rely on a Q&A for this! This is an immigration and work authorization question, and the answer depends on your university, visa status, the program structure, and the firm.

1. Ask your university’s DSO whether participating in the bridge program requires CPT or any other authorization.
2. Ask each firm’s recruiting or immigration team whether they require work authorization for the program and what documentation they expect.

These are also excellent questions to ask while networking with current international consultants at the firms. They can tell you how the process worked in practice, but still verify the answer with your DSO and the firm’s immigration team.

Get the answer in writing before you participate.

Good luck!

Hi there, 

I suggest you ask the recruiter. I would be surprised if you need a work authorization for such a program but it makes sense to ask the people who actually have clarity on this. 

Best,
Cristian