CPT vs OPT, and why too much full-time CPT can bite you

CPT is tied to your program and authorized by your DSO, while OPT is authorized by USCIS via an EAD. One thing people miss: using 12 months or more of full-time CPT eliminates your OPT eligibility. Part-time CPT does not count against OPT the same way. If your program pushes heavy full-time CPT, ask your DSO how it affects your OPT before you enroll. Anyone here navigated this tradeoff?