• USA

Curricular Practical Training: Eligibility and How to Apply for CPT

2362 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Aug 10,2023 12:09 PM IST

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is an employment program typically designed for overseas students in the USA on an F-1 visa. It allows eligible students to participate in paid/unpaid internships, a critical part of the academic curriculum. It offers students to obtain valuable working experience in their chosen field of study.

$CPT.webp$
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is part-time work that permits overseas students to study in the USA on an F-1 visa, providing students with practical knowledge, training and job experience linked to their chosen course of study. CPT is a critical component of various academic programs as it allows students to apply their theoretical knowledge in the natural working environment. To be eligible for CPT, candidates must fulfil certain set of rules and regulations that the educational institutions and the USA immigration regulations set. Read the blog to find out everything about CPT, including eligibility and reasons to pursue this training.

What is CPT?

CPT or Curricular Practical Training is an overseas student authorization granted for employment training and paid internship work. Students applying for CPT can work full-time or part-time and earn money in US dollars while gaining experience in their field of interest.

Eligibility Criteria for CPT

• Valid F-1 Visa Status: Candidate must be enrolled full-time in a recognized educational institution in the USA and hold a current F-1 student visa.

• Academic Requirement: CPT is a critical part of the established curriculum and necessary for the study program. Students must demonstrate that their job experience is related to their field of study.

• Enrollment Requirement: Candidates must complete one full academic year (often two semesters or three quarters) of full-time study in the USA before being eligible for CPT.

• Job Offer: Before applying for CPT, students should already have valid employment offers or internship opportunities in their field of study.

• Academic Advisor Approval: DSO must verify that the job is essential to the student's academic program.

How to Apply for CPT?

Before applying for CPT, one must confirm one's eligibility and qualifications. Students must take advice from study abroad consultants about their internship course credit rules.

• Consult an Academic Advisor or DSO: Schedule an appointment with DSO or academic advisor to explore CPT eligibility, requirements and the application procedure.

• Secure a Job Offer: Seek a job or internship related to the field of study. The job description must contain starting and ending dates, hours worked per week, and the employer's address.

• Finish the CPT Application: Carefully complete the CPT application provided by the educational institution. It usually includes brief information, job offer details and certification from designated school officials.

• Academic Advisor Approval: Consult an academic advisor to discuss job potential and how it fits the educational goals. Their consent is required to approve the CPT application form.

• Submit Application: After completing the necessary forms and obtaining the required signatures, send the CPT application to the designated DSO. After verifying the form, issue a new I-20 form with the CPT authorization.

• Start the CPT: Following an updated I-20 form with CPT authorization, follow the terms and conditions stated on the form.

Documents Required for CPT

Following is the list of documents that students need to submit in order to apply for CPT:

• Online workshop CPT completion certificate

• Academic advisor recommendation or approval

• Latest I-20 form and DSO endorsement

• Offer letter stating the position

• Electronic I-94 form

Also read: SOP for USA

Benefits of Curricular Practical Training

On-field Work Experience

CPT allows international students to gain experience in their field of study. Students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world working situations, which helps them to enhance their skills and increase their employment opportunities.

Financial Support

CPT allows overseas students to earn money as they can work part-time (20 hours per week) during the academic year and full-time during summer breaks.

Resume Enhancement

Students' resumes can be enhanced by having relevant work experience gained through CPT, which helps students be potential employers after graduation.

Networking Opportunities

CPT helps expand the student professional network by connecting employers and industry professionals, opening doors for future job opportunities.

Academic Credit

Some academic institutions in the USA offer academic credit for teaching CPT in their academic curriculum.

Conclusion

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a critical component of adequate education for overseas students pursuing educational programs in the USA. It allows students to obtain valuable experience and apply their theoretical knowledge in practical words, enabling them to bridge the gap between the academic and professional worlds. Through CPT, students can be involved in internships, educational programs, and various work experiences directly related to the course of study. The on-filed experience helps students to enhance their knowledge, skills and confidence.

Also read: Study in USA for indian students after 12th

FAQ

Can CPT work 40 hours?

Students can work full-time (more than 20 hours per week) and part-time (less than 20 hours per week)

Can I get CPT in the first year?

To qualify for CPT, the candidate must have an F-1 visa and have completed one full year of study at an SEVP-certified school.

Can I have multiple CPT?

A student may have multiple permits simultaneously, but one full year of CPT prohibits the student from being for OPT.

What is the validity of full-time CPT?

CPT can typically last up to 12 months whereas OPT last up to 12 months and can be extended for 24 months.

Is there a time limit on CPT?

CPT do not have time limit, whereas full-time OPT is limited to one year.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

University of New South Wales (UNSW) - Kensington Campus

New South Wales, Australia • 852 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 34500-74500 / year

Okanagan College - Kelowna Campus

British Columbia, Canada • 36 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 12500-71500 / year

SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences - Stuttgart Campus

Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany • 3 Programmes

Tuition Fee : EUR 0-0 / year

Western Kentucky University

Kentucky, USA • 38 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 27000-28000 / year

George Brown College - Casa Loma Campus

Ontario, Canada • 51 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 17000-29000 / year

New Brunswick Community College - Saint John Campus

New Brunswick, Canada • 56 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 10500-11000 / year

University at Albany - State University of New York

New York, USA • 216 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 29000-30000 / year

Keck Graduate Institute

California, USA • 9 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 0-0 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

University Visit - Univerity of Manitoba

Study in Canada

Chandigarh • 01:00PM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Bay Atlantic University

Study in USA • University Visit

kochi2 • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Bay Atlantic University

Study in USA • University Visit

Patiala • 12:00PM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

Education System in Singapore

Singapore, also known as the "Lion City," has one of the most holistic and innovative education systems in the world. The Organization for Economic Co...

Updated on • Dec 12,2024 05:03 PM IST • Singapore

Medical Courses in UK

Medical courses in the UK are recognised globally for their academic challenge, updated facilities, and comprehensive practical experience. UK Univers...

Updated on • Dec 10,2024 05:36 PM IST • study in the UK

MBBS in Germany

Studying an MBBS in Germany offers a pathway to a world-class education in medicine, attracting thousands of aspiring doctors from around the globe ev...

Updated on • Dec 09,2024 05:49 PM IST • Study in Germany

Letter of Motivation for Germany

If you are planning to study abroad, you must know that the SOP is the most essential document for the application process. In Germany, the same SOP i...

Updated on • Dec 07,2024 05:11 PM IST • Germany

Part-Time Jobs in Germany for International Students

Studying abroad is an experience of a lifetime, incorporating distinct incidents and events. Students are advised to work part-time to make this adven...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 04:38 PM IST • Study in Germany

Health Insurance in Germany for International Students

Do you know that Germany has one of the world's oldest national health insurance systems? That's right, and the health insurance system of Germany dat...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 04:05 PM IST • Study in Germany

Scholarships in Germany for International Students

For international students looking to pursue their higher education abroad, Germany is known as one of the most affordable study destinations. Its cre...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 03:59 PM IST • Study in Germany

Study Permit for Canada

Planning to study in Canada? But in order to heading off to the land of the maple leaf, it's important to understand how to apply for a Canadian study...

Updated on • Dec 05,2024 05:04 PM IST • Study in Canada

Student Life in UK

The United Kingdom is home to some of the most renowned universities that provide learning opportunities to students nationwide. The country is known ...

Updated on • Dec 04,2024 04:46 PM IST • study in the UK

Master of Information Systems (MIS) in USA

In today's fast-paced and digitally-driven world, organizations increasingly depend on information systems to streamline operations, enhance decision-...

Updated on • Dec 02,2024 05:28 PM IST • USA

Bachelor of Nursing Courses in Australia

Are you passionate about helping others and drawn to the dynamic world of healthcare? A Bachelor of Nursing in Australia could be the perfect la...

Updated on • Nov 30,2024 03:16 PM IST • Australia

Study Medicine in Germany

Are you an international student planning to study medicine in Germany? We want to tell you are going in the right direction, as Germany hosts world-c...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 05:34 PM IST • Study in Germany

Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany

Germany is gaining popularity for its top-notch universities of applied science, known as Fachhochschule. These esteemed institutes offer top-quality ...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 05:22 PM IST • Germany

Student Life in Germany

Germany is known for its affordable education and top-class universities in Europe, but what is it like to become a student at a German univ...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 04:18 PM IST • Study in Germany

Complete Undergraduate Admissions Guide to Study in Germany

Ever dreamt of studying in a land steeped in history and innovation? Germany, a powerhouse of education and engineering, beckons you with it...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 03:54 PM IST • Study in Germany

PTE Score Chart 2025: PTE Exam Scoring System & Calculation

Most international institutions demand proof of strong English skills, making language proficiency tests a necessity to pursue higher education. While...

Updated on • Nov 26,2024 01:55 PM IST • PTE

Masters in Project Management in USA

Students with ISTJ Personality may have a successful future in project management as their sole personality aligns with the needs of an exceptional pr...

Updated on • Nov 26,2024 01:15 PM IST • USA

IELTS Speaking Questions

The IELTS exam is a popular way for people who want to study overseas, but don't speak English as their first language or where it's not spoken often....

Updated on • Nov 25,2024 03:45 PM IST • IELTS

Accounting Courses in USA

The United States has always been a land of opportunities, especially in education. The allure of studying accounting in the US remains strong, thanks...

Updated on • Nov 25,2024 03:33 PM IST • USA

IELTS Writing Task

IELTS Writing Task One of the most crucial aspects to scoring well on an exam is writing. The IELTS assesses both Academic and General Training in ...

Updated on • Nov 21,2024 05:46 PM IST • IELTS

Curricular Practical Training: Eligibility and How to Apply for CPT

Table of Contents

What is CPT?

Eligibility Criteria for CPT

How to Apply for CPT?

Documents Required for CPT

Benefits of Curricular Practical Training

On-field Work Experience

Financial Support

Resume Enhancement

Networking Opportunities

Academic Credit

Conclusion

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams