CPT explained: what your school decides

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) lets F-1 students work while they study, when the work is part of their program. Unlike OPT, it is authorized by your school, not by USCIS.

What counts as CPT

The work must be an integral part of your curriculum: an internship, practicum or co-op that your program requires, or that earns academic credit. It is tied to a specific employer, specific dates, and authorization from your designated school official (DSO), printed on page 2 of your I-20.

Do not start work until the authorization is on your I-20. Working before the start date, after the end date or for a different employer is unauthorized employment.

When you become eligible

Generally after you have been enrolled full time for one full academic year in lawful status. The exception is a graduate program that requires practical training from the start, where you may be eligible sooner.

Some schools offer CPT from the first term of a graduate program. If you are considering one, ask your DSO how the program meets the requirement, and consider asking an immigration attorney how it could be viewed in later applications.

Part-time or full-time

• Part-time CPT: 20 hours a week or less. It does not affect your OPT.
• Full-time CPT: more than 20 hours a week. 12 months or more of full-time CPT makes you ineligible for OPT at that degree level. Less than 12 months does not.

Where we fit

We look for internships your school can authorize, for the dates it approves, and we prepare you for the interviews. Your DSO decides whether a role qualifies as CPT, and we don't give immigration advice.

Official sources

• Study in the States: F-1 Curricular Practical Training
• 8 CFR 214.2(f): the F-1 regulation
• ICE: practical training