Quick Summary
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows eligible international students in the U.S. on an F-1 visa to work legally while studying. This guide covers:
Eligibility Requirements
Best Time to Apply for CPT
Step-by-Step Application Process
Required Documents Checklist
Real-life Case Scenario
FAQs and Expert Tips
Whether you’re in New Jersey, California, or Hyderabad planning your U.S. journey, this post will help you understand how and when to apply for CPT.
What is CPT?
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is an off-campus work authorization for international students on F-1 visas. It allows you to work in a job related to your major as part of your academic program.
Definition (as per USCIS):
“CPT must be an integral part of an established curriculum and directly related to the student’s major area of study.”
Types of CPT:
Part-Time CPT
Up to 20 hours/week during the academic year
Full-Time CPT
More than 20 hours/week, allowed during breaks or as part of a full-time internship
Important: Using 12 months or more of full-time CPT disqualifies you from Optional Practical Training (OPT).
When Can You Apply for CPT?
You are eligible to apply for CPT if:
You have been enrolled for one full academic year (2 semesters) at a SEVP-certified school
Your degree program requires CPT or you enroll in a CPT-authorized course (e.g., internship course)
You have a job offer related to your major before applying
Best Time to Apply for CPT:
At least 2–4 weeks before your intended start date
Before accepting a job offer, confirm whether CPT is available in your current semester
Avoid delays during peak times (e.g., summer internship rush in April–May)
Pro Tip: Coordinate with your Designated School Official (DSO) early in the semester.
How to Apply for CPT: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer
Must be related to your major
Should include company name, job title, start/end dates, hours/week, and job description
Step 2: Enroll in a CPT-eligible Course
Some programs require you to take a related internship or co-op course to get CPT
Step 3: Request CPT through Your DSO
Submit the job offer letter and course enrollment details to your school's international office
Step 4: Receive New I-20
Your DSO will update your SEVIS record and issue a new I-20 with CPT authorization printed on Page 2
Step 5: Start Working
You can begin employment only on or after the CPT start date on your I-20
CPT Application Checklist
✔ Valid F-1 visa and I-20
✔ Enrolled full-time for one academic year
✔ Job offer letter with full details
✔ Proof of enrollment in CPT-related course
✔ CPT Request Form (from your DSO or university portal)
✔ Updated I-20 with CPT authorization
✔ Follow school-specific processing timelines
Real-Life Scenario: How Riya Applied for CPT
Riya, a master's student in Computer Science at a university in New Jersey, secured a summer internship with a fintech company. Her curriculum included a “Summer Co-op” course for which CPT was mandatory.
She followed these steps:
Confirmed with her DSO about CPT eligibility
Got a formal job offer letter
Registered for the co-op course
Submitted all documents two weeks before her internship began
Her CPT was approved in 7 business days, and she began her internship on time, gaining valuable experience for her future H1B application.
FAQs on How and When to Apply for CPT
Can I apply for CPT in my first semester?
No. You must complete one full academic year before becoming eligible, unless your graduate program requires immediate participation in practical training.
Is CPT authorization needed for unpaid internships?
Yes. Even unpaid internships require CPT if they involve active participation and training relevant to your major.
How long does CPT authorization take?
Most universities process CPT within 5–10 business days. Always check your school’s specific timeline.
Can I work for any company under CPT?
No. The job must be directly related to your field of study, and you must have CPT authorization for each specific employer.
Questions to Ask Your Immigration Attorney
Will this CPT affect my future OPT or H1B eligibility?
Does my school offer CPT during the first year for specific programs?
How does full-time CPT impact my EAD timelines for OPT?
Can I switch employers under the same CPT approval?
Key Takeaways
CPT allows F-1 students to gain practical experience legally.
Apply early, at least 2–4 weeks before the job starts.
You must have a job offer and course enrollment before applying.
CPT is employer-specific and date-bound, don’t start work early.
Consult your DSO and legal advisor to stay compliant with USCIS rules.
Looking for CPT-Friendly Jobs?
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