top of page
HMS

MENU

Study Guide

Your guide to studying in the USA

Find relevant information, hear from other students, and stay caught up on the latest news at HMS.

The CPT Miniseries: How to Apply for CPT

  • Writer: Tyler Howell
    Tyler Howell
  • Jul 24
  • 3 min read

Updated: Oct 2


Applying for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is not as simple as finding a job and starting work. Since CPT is a form of employment authorization regulated by U.S. immigration law, it must be approved before you begin working. According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), CPT must be an integral part of your curriculum and requires authorization from your Designated School Official (DSO).


This post outlines the process and requirements based on official guidance from DHS, USCIS, and ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement).


Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Before applying for CPT, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria:

  • You are currently in valid F-1 status.

  • You have completed at least one full academic year of study in the U.S. (unless you’re enrolled in a graduate program that requires immediate CPT).

  • Your proposed employment is directly related to your major field of study.

  • Employment is either required by your degree program or part of a course that carries academic credit.

Note: According to ICE’s SEVP Policy Guidance, CPT must be “an integral part of an established curriculum.” CPT cannot be used for general work experience not tied to academic content.

Step 2: Get a Job Offer Related to Your Major

You must have a job offer in hand before CPT can be authorized. The position must:

  • Be directly related to your declared major.

  • Match your academic level (e.g., bachelor’s, master’s).

  • Have a formal offer letter with:

    • Employer’s name and address

    • Job title and responsibilities

    • Start and end dates

    • Number of hours per week

    • Supervisor contact information

Pro Tip: Work with your university’s career services or academic department to ensure the job aligns with your program and can be tied to a course.

Step 3: Enroll in the Associated Course

CPT must be linked to a specific course that appears in the university’s curriculum catalog. The course should:

  • Be listed in your program’s academic bulletin.

  • Carry academic credit.

  • Be taken during the same semester or term as the CPT.

  • Require or allow practical training as part of the grade.

Some schools have designated “internship,” “practicum,” or “co-op” courses for this purpose.

Step 4: Submit CPT Application to Your DSO

Once you’ve secured the offer and enrolled in the relevant course, you’ll need to apply for CPT through your university’s international student office. You’ll likely be required to submit:

  • The employer’s job offer letter

  • Course registration details

  • A CPT request form (signed by your academic advisor)

  • Your most recent I-20 and passport/visa

  • Proof of full-time enrollment and good academic standing


Your DSO will verify your eligibility and authorize your CPT in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). They will also issue a new I-20 with CPT details on page 2.

Important: You cannot begin working until the CPT start date listed on your new I-20.

Step 5: Start Your CPT Assignment

Once you have received your updated I-20 and reached your CPT start date, you are legally authorized to begin working in the approved position. Be sure to:

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

  • Work within the authorized dates and weekly hour limits (part-time or full-time).

  • Maintain enrollment in the associated course.

  • Report any changes to your DSO immediately.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Starting work before CPT is approved in SEVIS.

  • Working beyond the authorized dates or for a different employer.

  • Failing to register for the associated course.

  • Exceeding 12 months of full-time CPT, which cancels your OPT eligibility.


Summary

Applying for CPT is a multi-step process that requires careful coordination between you, your academic advisor, your employer, and your DSO. Remember, CPT is not just a job—it's a form of academic training that must comply with U.S. immigration rules. Follow the correct steps and you’ll be well on your way to gaining real-world experience while maintaining legal status.


Ready to explore integral CPT options? Browse our list of accredited universities offering integral CPT programs.



bottom of page