What is CPT work authorization for international students

CPT is a type of work permission that lets F1 international students work in the U.S. when the job is a required or integral part of their academic program. It must be approved by the school before you start working, and the job must relate directly to your major.

What CPT Is and How It Works

CPT stands for Curricular Practical Training. It allows F1 students to do paid or unpaid work when that work is built into their curriculum. This usually means an internship, practicum, cooperative education, or any training that your program requires or gives credit for. The school’s international office authorizes CPT in SEVIS and issues a new I-20 showing your employer, work dates, and whether it is part-time or full-time.

Key Rules

• You must have been full-time in F1 status for at least one academic year, unless your program requires training from the first term.
• The job must match your major. A finance student cannot use CPT for a graphic design job.
• You need an offer letter before approval. CPT is employer-specific.
• You cannot start work until the CPT start date on your I-20. Working early is a status violation.
• Part-time CPT is 20 hours per week or less during semesters.
• Full-time CPT is more than 20 hours per week. Doing 12 months or more of full-time CPT removes your eligibility for OPT.
• No USCIS application. The school approves CPT; there is no separate work card.

Common Practical Points

• Credit requirement: Many schools require you to register for an internship course to qualify.
• Multiple CPT periods: Allowed, as long as each one meets academic rules.
• Paid vs unpaid: Both allowed. Paid CPT requires a Social Security number and proper payroll paperwork.
• Remote work: Usually allowed if employer rules permit and you stay within CPT dates and hours.
• Internship timing: Summer CPT is common because academic schedules allow more flexibility.

In simple terms, CPT is work that is tied to your degree and approved by your university. As long as the job is related to your studies, fits school rules, and you wait for the new I-20 before starting, you stay in good immigration standing.