Changing to another status (H1b, green card, etc.) and thinking of leaving your Day 1 CPT Program? Or, just want to begin at a different school? Withdrawing properly from a university is crucial because it directly impacts your F-1 visa status, your ability to legally work and stay in the U.S., and your future immigration opportunities. Here’s how to do it properly and protect your F-1 status.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows international students on F-1 visas to gain practical work experience in the fields related to their academic programs while enrolled in school. It’s a valuable opportunity—especially for those balancing career development and financial responsibilities.
That said, sometimes a student may decide that their current CPT school isn’t the right fit. Common reasons include:
Whatever your reason, withdrawing from a CPT school involves more than just stopping your attendance. Because your F-1 visa and CPT work authorization are tied to your enrollment, it’s important to follow the correct steps to maintain your legal status.
Let’s be clear: withdrawing from your CPT school the wrong way can seriously affect your F-1 status.
Here’s what can happen if you don’t handle it properly:
SEVIS Termination: If your school reports you as withdrawn and your SEVIS record isn’t transferred or closed correctly, your visa status may be terminated. If your status is terminated, you may need to apply for reinstatement—a lengthy and uncertain process.
Unlawful Presence: Staying in the U.S. without valid F-1 status can trigger immigration consequences, such as future visa denials or bars on re-entry.
Loss of CPT Authorization: CPT is only valid while you are actively enrolled. Once you withdraw, your work authorization ends. Mind the transition of your legal working authorization.
It's always recommended to finish at least the current semester if you are changing into another status like H1b, to avoid any future immigration complications. Note that you can study fully online, even change to a status like H1b, H4, Green Card, or L1/L2.
Here's how to withdraw from your CPT school responsibly and protect your visa status:
Your Academic Advisors and Designated School Official (DSO) should always be your first point of contact for any change of enrollment plans or employment. They’ll guide you through your school’s withdrawal process and explain how it impacts your SEVIS record.
If you’re transferring to another school, apply and get accepted before initiating the withdrawal. This ensures you have a clear path forward.
Every school has a formal process—usually an online withdrawal form or a written notice. Complete this step properly and keep a copy of your submission for your records.
Don't forget the tuition refund! The majority of universities in the US provide partial refunds for your tuition, provided you haven't reached halfway through your current semester. Schools like California Institute of Advanced Management even provide a refund before you finish more than 60% of your semester. The actual refund policies vary school by school, so make sure you read them and discuss with the school about the refund amount, refund form, and expected refund date.
If you’re transferring, ask your DSO to release your SEVIS record to your new school. You’ll need to provide:
Once the transfer is complete, your new school will issue a new I-20. This document reflects your updated program, CPT eligibility, and other critical details. Review it carefully.
If there will be a gap in your CPT work authorization, let your employer know ahead of time. This helps avoid any confusion and protects you and your employer from compliance issues.
Hussan was nearing the end of his summer semester when he received an offer from a better-fitting CPT school. Rather than rushing the switch, he finished his semester, worked closely with both schools, and arranged a SEVIS transfer immediately after his final exam. The best part? He successfully transferred 9 graduate credits to his new program—saving both time and tuition.
👉 Why it worked: Hussan followed the rules, kept communication open, and timed everything right. Now he’s thriving in his new program with a lighter course load and a head start.
Emma got the news every international student dreams of—her H-1B was approved, and the start date was October 1. The only issue? Her CPT semester wouldn’t end until December. Emma decided to shift her focus to her career and pause her study at that time, so she worked with her DSO to withdraw mid-semester in early October.
Her SEVIS record was properly closed. She traveled back to her country in November, completed her H-1B visa stamping smoothly, and even received a 50% tuition refund from her previous school.
⚠️ Note: Emma’s story had a happy ending, but this path carries risk. Mid-semester withdrawals can affect future visa applications or credibility with consulates. We always recommend completing the semester unless your attorney or DSO advises otherwise.
Communicate early. Plan carefully. Document everything.
Whether you’re transferring schools like Hussan or transitioning to H-1B like Emma, your DSO is your best friend—and timing is everything.
Here are some things you should do before officially withdrawing:
Depending on how you handle the process, you’ll end up in one of these situations:
If you complete the withdrawal properly, you may receive a grace period. During this time, you can:
If your SEVIS record is terminated due to failure to follow procedures, you’ll be considered out of status and may need to leave the U.S. immediately.
If your status is terminated but you remain in the U.S., you can apply for F-1 reinstatement. However, this process is time-consuming, and approval is not guaranteed.
A: Only if your new CPT authorization begins immediately and there’s no gap in status.
A: No. If the transfer is done correctly, your SEVIS ID stays the same.
A: Contact your DSO immediately. They may still be able to help you avoid SEVIS termination.
A: Yes, as long as you plan a SEVIS transfer and follow your school’s withdrawal procedures.