What Are CPT Requirements? Eligibility and Criteria for Obtaining Work Authorization

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a program that lets you study while gaining invaluable work experience through internships. The process for CPT is simpler than that of Optional Practical Training (OPT) because it's initiated by your school and doesn't require approval from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

 

In addition to selecting an accredited CPT university, it's essential to understand the CPT requirements to enhance your chances of obtaining work authorization. Below, we outline what's required for a successful CPT application.

 

·         Offer letter - One of the critical requirements for Day 1 CPT is securing an offer letter. You need to obtain this from an accredited university and then submit it along with your CPT verification form.

 

·         Register for a course in advance - As a part of the CPT process, you must enroll in a CPT course ahead of time. After registering, submit your offer letter, CPT application form, and CPT agreement, ensuring that they are signed by both your employer and school. Some schools may use an offer letter or employment letter instead of a CPT agreement. But don't worry, CPT can still be issued without the employer's signature. However, school policies might change, so do your research before proceeding.

 

·         Await approval - Once you've submitted all required documents, wait for your school's CPT approval and then carefully review the new I-20 form. As a part of CPT requirements, verify and confirm that all details about your employer on the I-20's second page are accurate. Remember that you must wait until the effective date on your CPT authorization before you begin work.

 

·         Understand your work options - To be eligible for a CPT, you can opt for a practicum, a paid or unpaid internship, or a co-op education program. You can engage in your chosen work or training as long as you're enrolled as a student at an accredited Day 1 CPT university.

 

 

Need advice?

 

Learn more about CPT requirements here at CPTDog. We’re partners with over 50 accredited CPT universities in the US. You can trust our educational consultancy firm to help you boost your eligibility to get work authorization while you study.