Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a part of the U.S. immigration system which allows international students to engage in internships, cooperative education programs, and other work-study experiences related to their field of study while maintaining an F-1 student status. As professions evolve, an education limited to theoretical learning is insufficient to succeed “on the job” and thus it is critical for international students to engage in CPT as a way to enhance their learning and skill set.
Activating CPT will have some variations based upon what your universities/institutions require. In general, though, international students in the United States will follow these steps:
- Eligibility Confirmation: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for CPT, including having completed at least one academic year of full-time study in a qualifying program and obtaining approval from your academic advisor or designated school official (DSO). First year CPT is available at some institutions.
- Internship Opportunity: Secure an internship opportunity that is directly related to your major field of study and is an integral part of your academic program. Obtain a job offer letter from your employer detailing the terms and conditions of the internship.
- Documentation Gathering: Gather all necessary documentation, including the job offer letter, and any forms required by your academic institution or the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- DSO Review: Submit your documentation to your DSO for review. They will ensure that the internship meets the criteria for CPT and provide guidance on the application process.
- Application Submission: Your DSO will collaborate with you to complete your CPT application process, which may involve submitting forms to the USCIS for authorization. Be sure to allow sufficient time for processing, and submit your application well in advance of your intended start date.
- Authorization Confirmation: Once your CPT application is approved, USCIS will inform you that you can begin your internship. Make sure to keep a copy of your authorization document for your records, which you will also share with your new employer.
When using CPT, there are several important things to be aware of:
- Maintaining Status: Maintaining your F-1 student status while on CPT is imperative. This includes keeping a full course load during the academic year and complying with all visa regulations—never withdraw from/drop a course without consulting your international student advisor.
- Duration Limits: There are limits on the duration of CPT authorization, typically capped at 12 months. Be mindful of these limits and plan your internships accordingly to ensure you have sufficient time to gain valuable experience.
- Impact on OPT: Using 12 months or more of full-time CPT can impact your eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation. Consider the implications of using CPT extensively on your future employment opportunities.
- Regulatory Compliance: Make sure that your CPT experience complies with all relevant regulations, including those related to work hours, compensation, and the nature of the work performed. Violations can have serious consequences, including loss of visa status.
TLDR: While work experience will allow you to make the most of your CPT experience, ensure compliance with immigration regulations to maintain your legal status in the U.S. Find CPT opportunities by downloading theFrogHire.aiextension to make the job hunt more efficient while you search simultaneously across all five major job sites (e.g., Handshake, Indeed).
