How Does Full-Time CPT Work?

Do you want to gain work experience in your field as early as possible? As an F-1 student, you can take advantage of the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) program. You can opt to work part-time for less than 20 hours per week or choose full-time CPT and work for up to 40 hours each week.

Not sure where to start? Here’s a beginner’s guide to the full-time CPT program:

Requirements and eligibility

The CPT program is available for students with a legal F-1 visa status and U-M-approved health insurance. In addition, you must have been physically present and enrolled in a US school for at least one academic year before applying for the program.

One important thing to remember is that your work content must be related to your field of study. So, for example, if you are working as a software developer, you must enroll in a degree program like MS Computer Science or MS Information Technology.

Application process

• Offer letter

Before submitting your CPT application, you must find a position directly related to your degree program. Make sure to secure an offer letter from your employer as soon as possible to avoid processing delays.

• Registration

In addition to securing an offer letter, you must register for CPT courses in your chosen school in advance. Before submitting the application form, make sure to have your offer letter and CPT agreement signed by the school and your employer.

• Approval and renewal

You will need to wait for your school to approve your application and provide a new 1-20 form. Once approved, take note of your school’s CPT renewal notice and renew your application as soon as possible.

Take note that you can only start working after the approval of your CPT application. Otherwise, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services will think you violated F1 student status requirement. In the future, you may face RFE when applying for H1B or Greencard.

Full-time CPT schools

Not all US schools offer CPT programs for students. To ensure that you have chosen a reputable college or university, find one that is accredited and requires onsite attendance.

Some well-known CPT schools in the country include Trine University, Harrisburg University, Westcliff University, and Monroe College.

Is full-time CPT right for you? Talk to a knowledgeable educational consultant now and make sure you don’t run into application issues.

About The Company

CPTDog is an education consultancy based in Southern California, USA. We are an official partner of many US institutions. Many university programs we work with specifically provide international students with Day 1 CPT, a type of work authorization that allows international students to work full-time during the duration of their Master's, Certificate, or Doctorate program. Our mission is to help those not selected for H1B or who have an expired OPT to study and work in the USlegally.

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