CPT is an off-campus work permit for F-1 students, allowing them to gain work experience related to their fields of study during programs.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows international students to work off-campus while still studying in the U.S. Unlike OPT, which is typically used after graduation, CPT gives students the opportunity to gain practical work experience in their field of study during their academic program. The work must be directly related to the student's major, providing a way to both earn legal income and enhance their learning with real-world experience.
Like OPT, CPT is a legal work permit tied to the F-1 visa and can be considered a benefit granted to F-1 students by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
CPT applications are typically submitted at the beginning of the semester. If international students wish to engage in off-campus work related to their major, they must apply for CPT authorization from their school’s International Students Office after securing a job. Only after the authorization is approved can students legally start working.
Note:
CPT authorization is not required for on-campus work.
Unlike OPT, CPT does not require approval from USCIS; it only requires approval from your school’s Designated School Official (DSO). Once your CPT is approved, you will receive a new I-20 with CPT authorization.