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.

• How to apply for an F-1 visa?
• How to reinstate your F-1 Status?
• How to apply for an F-2 visa?
• How to Change of Status to F-1 from another non-immigrant status?
• How to Transfer from one school to another school?
• Can an F-1 student work off campus due to extreme hardship? 
• Curricular Practical Training (CPT) 
• Optional Practical Training (OPT)
• FAQ  for F-1 and M-1 Students

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.

After the visa/petition 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.