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The CPT Miniseries: CPT Policies You Need to Know (According to USCIS and SEVP)

  • Writer: Tyler Howell
    Tyler Howell
  • Aug 13
  • 3 min read

Updated: Oct 2


Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows F-1 students to gain valuable work experience during their studies, but it's not as flexible as many assume. CPT is tightly regulated by federal agencies, including the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)—specifically through its Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Violating CPT rules can jeopardize your immigration status, so understanding official policy is essential.

This post explains the most important CPT policies you need to follow to stay compliant.


CPT Must Be an Integral Part of the Curriculum

According to USCIS and ICE, CPT must be “an integral part of an established curriculum.” That means the practical training must be:

  • Required or credit-bearing within your degree program.

  • Listed in the university’s official course catalog.

  • Directly related to your major (not just any job or internship).

  • Approved by your university through a course enrollment and Designated School Official (DSO) authorization.

❗ CPT cannot be used for employment unrelated to your academic program or for general work experience.

CPT Must Be Authorized in SEVIS Before Work Begins

Per ICE SEVP regulations, your DSO must authorize CPT in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and issue a new Form I-20 before you start working.

You are not allowed to begin working until the CPT start date listed on your I-20.


A Job Offer Is Required

You cannot apply for CPT without a job offer. According to DHS, the job offer must include:

  • Employer name and address

  • Job title and duties

  • Start and end dates

  • Hours per week (to determine full-time vs. part-time)

  • Confirmation that the job is directly related to your major


CPT Can Be Full-Time or Part-Time

Defined by DHS:

  • Part-time CPT: 20 hours or fewer per week

  • Full-time CPT: More than 20 hours per week

While both are legal, you should be cautious about full-time CPT. If you engage in 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you will lose eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT) at the same degree level.


One Full Academic Year Requirement

In most cases, you must complete one full academic year (typically two semesters or three quarters) before becoming eligible for CPT. This applies unless:

  • You’re in a graduate-level program that requires immediate practical training.

  • CPT is mandated by the curriculum from the first semester (must be documented by the school).

Always confirm this with your DSO before making plans.

CPT Is Employer- and Date-Specific

CPT authorization is not open-ended. You are only permitted to:

  • Work for the specific employer listed on your I-20.

  • Work during the specific dates authorized by your DSO.

If you want to change employers, extend your CPT, or switch from part-time to full-time, you must submit a new CPT request and receive an updated I-20 before making the change.


CPT Does Not Require USCIS Approval

One key distinction from Optional Practical Training (OPT) is that CPT is authorized by your school, not USCIS. There is no need to file Form I-765 or wait for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). However, this means your school is responsible for ensuring your CPT is compliant.


You Must Be Enrolled in the Associated Course

Every semester or term you use CPT, you must be enrolled in the academic course that supports it. Dropping or failing that course could make your CPT authorization invalid and result in a violation of status.


Staying Compliant

To avoid legal trouble or F-1 status termination:

  • Work only within your authorized dates, hours, and employer.

  • Stay enrolled full-time in your academic program.

  • Check in with your DSO for every CPT term or job change.

  • Understand how CPT affects OPT and long-term immigration goals.


Summary

CPT is a privilege, not a right, and it comes with strict federal regulations. By following policies from USCIS, DHS, and ICE/SEVP, you can safely take advantage of CPT without compromising your F-1 status or future immigration benefits. Always work with your DSO, and treat CPT as part of your education, not just a job.



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