The CPT Miniseries: Am I Eligible for Day 1 CPT? Understanding the Criteria

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) offers international students on F-1 visas a pathway to gain practical work experience during their academic programs. However, not every F-1 student is immediately eligible for CPT. Understanding the requirements is essential to avoid violations and plan your academic and career goals effectively.

General Eligibility Requirements

According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), an F-1 student may be eligible for CPT if the following conditions are met:

1. Valid F-1 Status: You must be maintaining lawful F-1 status.

2. Enrollment for One Academic Year: Generally, students must have completed at least one full academic year (defined as two semesters or three quarters) of full-time study at a SEVP-certified school in the United States.

3. Program Must Require or Offer CPT: The training must be an integral part of your academic program and either required or offered as part of an elective for credit.

4. Job Must Be Related to Major: The employment must be directly related to your field of study.

5. CPT Must Be Authorized Before Work Begins: You must receive CPT authorization from your Designated School Official (DSO), and it must be recorded in SEVIS before you begin working.

Exception: Eligibility Criteria for Day 1 CPT

There is an exception to the one-year requirement. If your academic program mandates practical training from the beginning, as documented in the school’s official curriculum, you may be eligible for CPT in your first semester. According to DHS guidance, this is permissible only if the CPT is integral and required for all students in that program or concentration.

To be eligible for Day 1 CPT, students must meet the following requirements:

1. Enrollment in a Graduate Program Requiring Immediate Practical Training: The program must necessitate practical training from the outset as part of its curriculum. This is an exception to the general rule that students must complete one academic year before engaging in CPT.

2. Valid F-1 Status and SEVP-Certified Institution Enrollment: Students must maintain valid F-1 status and be enrolled full-time at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified institution.

3. Job Offer Related to Field of Study: A written job offer directly related to the student's major is required before CPT authorization.

4. DSO Authorization: The Designated School Official (DSO) must authorize CPT in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and provide an updated Form I-20 before employment begins.

Additional Considerations

• Academic Standing: Some institutions may require a minimum GPA (e.g., 3.0) for CPT eligibility.

• On-Site Requirements: Legitimate Day 1 CPT programs often require regular on-site class attendance, which may be monthly or per semester, to ensure compliance with F-1 regulations.

• Impact on OPT: Engaging in 12 months or more of full-time CPT can eliminate eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT) at the same educational level. Part-time CPT does not affect OPT eligibility.

Day 1 CPT can be a valuable opportunity for international students in programs that require immediate practical training. However, it's essential to ensure that all eligibility criteria are met and that the program complies with USCIS regulations. Always consult with your DSO and consider seeking advice from immigration professionals to navigate the complexities of CPT authorization.

Program-Specific Considerations

Each school has its own CPT policy within the framework established by federal regulations. Some key differences may include:

• Whether CPT is required for all students in the program or offered as an elective.

• Whether part-time or full-time, CPT is allowed during the academic year.

• The documentation needed for CPT approval includes a job offer letter and course enrollment confirmation.

Be sure to review your school’s CPT policy and speak with your DSO to understand how the general USCIS and DHS rules apply to your specific situation.

Important Documentation

To apply for CPT, you will typically need to provide:

• A formal job offer letter from the employer, including job title, duties, location, and number of hours per week.

• Proof of course registration (if CPT is for course credit).

• DSO approval and CPT notation in your SEVIS record and on your Form I-20.

Summary

Eligibility for CPT is based on multiple factors, including your visa status, academic progress, and whether the training is an established part of your academic program. Always consult your DSO and make sure your employment aligns with USCIS and DHS rules to avoid jeopardizing your F-1 status.