If you are an international student studying at a U.S. institution that is certified by the SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program), you may be eligible to apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Please continue reading as we explore the eligibility requirements for F-1 students to obtain this type of work authorization and how a seasoned Essex County Employment Immigration Attorney can assist you in navigating this process.
What Types of Practical Training Are Available to F-1 Students?
For international students on F-1 visas, there are two types of practical training available: curricular practical training (CPT) and optional practical training (OPT). CPT is a work authorization that allows international students to gain practical, hands-on experience in their field of study while they are pursuing their degree. Essentially, it’s an alternative work/study, internship, cooperative education, or other type of required internship or practicum that a sponsoring employer offers through agreements with a student’s school.
The key difference between CPT and OPT is that CPT is a work experience that is directly integrated into your academic curriculum and completed before graduation, whereas OPT allows you to work in your field of study for a period of time, either before or after graduation. Unlike CPT, OPT doesn’t necessarily need to be tied to a specific coursework.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements for Curricular Practical Training?
To be eligible for CPT, an F-1 student must:
- You are in the U.S. in valid F-1 status.
- Be enrolled as a full-time student for at least one academic year in the U.S. before applying for CPT.
- Secure an employment offer directly related to your field of study.
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress throughout your studies.
- Obtain approval from your Designated School Official (DOS).
- CPT must occur before the end date of your program, as specified on Form I-20
It’s important to understand that not all F-1 students are eligible for CPT. Only international students with a program that specifically requires a practical training component as part of their curriculum can apply for CPT.
Keep in mind that extensive CPT eliminates your eligibility for OPT. International students who are studying ESL (English as a Second Language) full-time are also not eligible for CPT. The qualifications for CPT may depend on additional requirements specific to your institution and legal status. Therefore, it’s advisable to seek guidance from an experienced Essex County immigration attorney for advice and further clarification.
If you have any questions regarding work authorization in the U.S., please don’t hesitate to contact an attorney from the Law Offices of Christopher T. Howell, Esq., who can guide you through every step of the process. Connect with our firm today for more information.
