Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows international students in the U.S. on an F-1 visa to gain practical work experience related to their field of study. To be eligible for CPT, students must meet certain criteria:
Program Requirement: The training, whether it’s an internship or practical work, must be an integral part of the curriculum and tied to a course or requirement within their degree program.
Duration in Program: Typically, students need to have completed at least one academic year of full-time study at their current institution before being eligible for CPT, unless they are enrolled in graduate programs that mandate immediate work experience.
Maintaining Status: Students must be maintaining valid F-1 status and have a job offer to apply for CPT, since it’s employer-specific and must be authorized by their Designated School Official (DSO) at the institution.
Part-Time vs. Full-Time: CPT can be part-time (20 hours or less per week) during school and full-time (more than 20 hours per week) during breaks. However, full-time CPT for 12 months or more can affect eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Approval and Application: The application process involves getting an endorsement on the I-20 form from the institution’s international student office, demonstrating that the training aligns with their academic goals.
Before engaging in CPT, international students should consult with their school’s international student office to ensure compliance and to fully understand the implications and process for their specific situation.
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