Blog: Applying to a Day-1 CPT Program from Outside the US: The Full Sequence

Depending on the Day 1 CPT universities you are enrolled in, the CPT application process usually takes up to 1-2 weeks. 

Usually, after you received an offer letter from your Day 1 CPT universities, you can start to apply for internship authorizations. CPT application usually involves the following steps:

Step 1: Verify Eligibility
To be eligible for CPT at Day 1 CPT universities, you must have a valid F-1 status and be a graduate student whose program requires immediate participation in CPT. Maintaining the required GPA is also crucial; some universities permit part-time CPT for lower GPAs, while others require a GPA above 3.0 for full-time CPT. Additionally, ensure you are enrolled in or can enroll in the required internship course directly related to your degree program.


Step 2: Secure a Job Offer
To proceed with CPT application, you must secure a job directly related to your major. The job offer letter from your employer should include key details such as job title, start and end dates, work location, job description, and weekly hours.

Some Day 1 CPT universities may require a Cooperative Education/Internship Agreement signed by both you and your employer to formalize the terms of your internship or employment.


Step 3: Gather and Submit Required Documents
To apply for CPT at Day 1 CPT universities, start by completing the CPT application form available through your university's online portal. Ensure your job offer letter is on company letterhead, signed, and includes all required details. Depending on your university's requirements, you may need to submit additional documents like:

    • Academic Work Placement (AWP) form
    • Proof of tuition payment
    • Cooperative Agreement.
    • Once all documents are ready, submit them to the appropriate department, typically the Designated School Official (DSO) or Registrar’s Office, by the specified deadline.


Step 4: Submit CPT Application
To submit your CPT application, log in to your university’s online system, such as Terra Dotta or Suncas. Follow the prompts to complete the online CPT request and upload the required documents prepared in Step 3.

After submission, allow for the university’s specified processing time, typically 5-14 business days, before receiving your new Form I-20 with CPT authorization.


Step 5: Receive & Confirm CPT Authorization
Once your CPT request is approved, you will receive an updated Form I-20 with the CPT authorization on page 2.

It is important to carefully review the details on your I-20, including the authorized employer, work dates, and any specific conditions.

You may begin working only on or after the CPT start date listed on your I-20 if everything checks out find, otherwise contact your DSO ASAP.


Step 6: Maintain Compliance During CPT
To remain eligible for CPT, you must continue to maintain full-time enrollment and meet the GPA requirements set by your university. Adhere to the work hours allowed under your CPT authorization—whether part-time or full-time—and ensure your employment stays within the authorized dates. Since CPT is typically authorized on a term-by-term basis, be prepared to reapply each semester if you plan to continue working.


Step 7: Renewal and Reapplication
CPT renewal requirements vary by university and program. Some schools require students to renew CPT each term or semester, while others authorize CPT for longer periods. Check your school's renewal schedule and submit updated employment documents before your current CPT authorization expires.