Question about Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
 

Hello.

I am a PhD candicate with an F1 visa. I haven't finished my degree but
just got a job offer. I can work only if I obtain the permission like
Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training
(CPT). The foreign student advisor in my school told me that right now
it takes several months to obtain an OPT and it's hard to estime the
time to obtain a CPT due to the process of issuing new I-20's. Does
anyone know how long it takes to obtain a CPT? Also I am a Canadian
citizen. Can I use my MS degree to apply for a TN visa? If yes, how
can I finish my degree later? Is it possible that I work first without
getting paid while I am waiting for a permission? Thanks!

Mike