Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT

What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is another employment authorization option for F-1 visa students in the United States. Unlike Optional Practical Training (OPT), which is typically used post-completion of a degree program, CPT is employment that is an integral part of your established curriculum, usually taking place during your studies. Here are some key points about F-1 CPT:

  1. Integral Part of Curriculum:
    • CPT must be an integral part of your established curriculum, and it must be required for your degree program or earn you academic credit.
  2. Eligibility:
    • You must have been enrolled in a U.S. school for one full academic year before being eligible for CPT.
    • Unlike OPT, there is no specific time restriction on how long you’ve been in the U.S. before applying for CPT.
  3. Types of CPT:
    • There are two types of CPT: part-time (20 hours or less per week) and full-time (more than 20 hours per week).
    • Full-time CPT requires authorization from your Designated School Official (DSO) and may affect your eligibility for OPT.
  4. Employment Authorization:
    • To engage in CPT, you must receive authorization from your DSO and have the appropriate endorsement on your Form I-20.
  5. Employment Limits:
    • There is no specific limit on the duration of CPT as long as it remains an integral part of your curriculum. However, engaging in 12 months or more of full-time CPT can make you ineligible for OPT.
  6. Application Process:
    • The process involves obtaining a job offer related to your field of study, receiving approval from your DSO, and updating your Form I-20.
  7. Post-Completion CPT:
    • After completing your degree, any remaining CPT authorization is forfeited. If you want to continue working, you may need to apply for OPT.

It’s important to consult with your DSO to understand the specific rules and regulations regarding CPT at your institution, as policies can vary. Additionally, maintaining proper documentation and following the guidelines set by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is crucial to ensure compliance with immigration regulations.

Related Important Information for Student Visas and Student Status

 

Our Expertise and Services

Assessing Eligibility: Our skilled attorneys and paralegals will evaluate your eligibility and guide you through the various options available to bring your family members to the United States. We talk in different languages for your comfort like English, Bangla, Hindi & Urdu.
Document Preparation: We assist you in gathering the required documentation, ensuring that all forms and supporting evidence are accurately completed and submitted in a timely manner.
Petition Filing: Our team will handle the preparation, filing, and tracking of your family visa petition, advocating for your loved one’s immigration rights at every step of the process.
Communication and Representation: We communicate with relevant immigration authorities on your behalf, responding to any requests for additional evidence or interviews, and providing legal representation throughout the proceedings.

Follow-up Assistance

After the visa is approved, we offer guidance on the next steps, including adjustment of status or consular processing, to help your family members smoothly transition to life in the United States.

Recent News

Success Stories

Clients Comments

No comments for this post.

At Mehran Law, We understand the importance of keeping families together, no matter where they come from. Our dedicated team of experienced immigration attorneys and paralegals will be navigating the complex process of USA family visas, ensuring that you can bring your loved ones closer to you.

Immigration Law can vary from person to person and also be very complex. You should always contact an experienced immigration attorney before filing a petition or making a decision. Contact us at 470-800-9213 or [email protected] for a free consultation.