CPT Universities and Proof of Funds: What International Students Need to Know

International students who pursue academic programs in the United States under Curricular Practical Training (CPT) are often required to demonstrate financial capability as part of the university application process and the issuance of the I-20 form. This article outlines what “proof of funds” means, why CPT universities require it, and how students can prepare the correct documents to meet these expectations.

1. Why Do CPT Universities Require Proof of Funds?

Proof of funds serves as documentation that the student can cover the cost of tuition, living expenses, and other necessary costs while studying in the U.S. It is a legal requirement enforced by both the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the university’s Designated School Officials (DSOs) before issuing an I-20 form.

For CPT programs, although many students work while studying, the requirement remains mandatory to ensure that students can sustain themselves without relying solely on employment income.

2. When Must You Show Proof of Funds?

You may present valid financial documentation when:

• Applying for admission to a CPT-eligible program

• Requesting your initial I-20 or a transfer I-20

• Renewing or changing your I-20

• During visa interviews at U.S. consulates (especially for new students or those who left the U.S.)

3. How Much Funding Is Required?

The required amount varies by university, but typically includes:

• Tuition and fees for one academic year

• Living expenses for one academic year (usually $10,000–$18,000 depending on location)

• Dependent costs if applicable (e.g., spouses or children)

For example, if tuition is $12,000 and the estimated living expenses are $15,000, you must show at least $27,000 in accessible funding.

4. What Documents Count as Proof of Funds?

Here are acceptable forms of financial documentation:

Bank Statements

• Personal or sponsor’s savings or checking account
• Issued within the last 3 months
• Should clearly show the account holder’s name and the available balance

Affidavit of Support

• Required if the funds are not in your name
• Signed statement from a sponsor promising financial support

Scholarship Letters or Assistantship Offers

• From your institution or a third-party sponsor
• Must specify the amount and duration of funding

Loan Approval Letters

• From a recognized bank or loan agency
• Must include your name, approved amount, and loan conditions

5. What Is NOT Accepted?

• Tax returns or pay stubs alone
• Unrealized stocks, cryptocurrency, or real estate valuation
• Bank letters without amounts
• Screenshots without official bank headers

6. Tips for Submitting Proof of Funds

1. Convert to USD: If the account is not in U.S. dollars, provide an exchange rate or conversion summary.

2. Organize clearly: If submitting multiple pages, add a summary cover page.

3. Avoid red flags: Don’t show last-minute large deposits—this can trigger suspicion.

4. Plan ahead: Some embassies or universities require documents to be no older than 30 days.

7. Examples from CPT Universities

• Westcliff University : Requires a minimum of $35,853 in accessible funds for I-20 issuance.

• Monroe University: Requires a minimum of $34,134 in accessible funds for I-20 issuance.

Conclusion

Proof of funds is a crucial part of applying to a CPT university and maintaining F-1 status. Preparing this documentation in advance will help avoid delays in receiving your I-20 or visa, and demonstrate your preparedness to study and live in the U.S. responsibly.

If you’re unsure how much funding you need to show or what documents are acceptable, always consult the school’s DSO or admissions advisor. Preparing well is the first step toward a successful academic and professional journey in the United States.