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CPT for international students

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Internships can be an important part of your college or graduate degree, providing hands-on experience and valuable skills essential for your future career. However, as an international student in the U.S., work requirements and visa restrictions can make it harder to find internships. That’s where curricular practical training (CPT) can be such a valuable option. CPT for international students allows you to gain practical experience in your field of study while staying compliant with your F-1 visa. In this guide, we’ll discuss what CPT is, the benefits of CPT internships, and how to find CPT opportunities.

What is curricular practical training (CPT)?

CPT is a type of work authorization for international students that allows you to work in jobs related to your field of study. It can be part time or full time and must be directly related to your academic program.

As an international student, CPT is designed to help you get experience in your field while you’re still enrolled in school. It’s an excellent way to apply classroom learning to real-world settings and enhance your professional skills. However, before you start CPT, you must get approval from your school, and your internship must be considered an essential part of your academic curriculum.

Requirements of CPT for international students

You must meet the following requirements to qualify for CPT for international students:

  • Enrollment status: You must be enrolled in a full-time degree program at an accredited U.S. institution.
  • Complete one year of study: You must have completed at least one academic year (two semesters), unless your program requires immediate participation in practical training.
  • Job relevance: The CPT position must be directly related to your field of study.
  • School authorization: You must obtain approval from your designated school official (DSO) and receive an updated Form I-20 before starting work.
  • Credit requirement: In some cases, CPT must be taken for academic credit as part of your curriculum.

The difference between CPT and OPT

While CPT for international students allows you to work during your studies, Optional Practical Training (OPT) jobs for international students are typically done after graduation. OPT is a temporary work authorization that allows you to gain experience in your field of study after completing your degree. OPT internships may last up to 12 months, with an additional 24-month extension available for students in STEM fields.

There are several additional differences between CPT and OPT.

  • Timing: CPT is available while you’re still studying, while OPT is usually performed after graduation
  • Work hours: CPT can be part time or full time, but full-time CPT for 12 months can make you ineligible for OPT.
  • Approval process: CPT requires approval from your school. OPT requires authorization from the U.S. government.
  • Flexibility: While CPT must be tied to an academic course, OPT jobs for international students offer more flexibility in choosing opportunities related to your field of study after graduation.

Both programs provide valuable work permits for international studentsto gain experience in their fields.

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The benefits of CPT for international students

Internships for international students in the USA through CPT offer several benefits:

  • Gain valuable real-world experience that enhances your resume. Participating in internships lets you apply the knowledge and skills you’ve gained in the classroom to practical work settings, making your resume more appealing to future employers. Employers value hands-on experience, so having internship experience can help you stand out in the job market.
  • Build a professional network in your industry. Internships help you meet industry professionals and establish valuable connections that may lead to future job opportunities. Networking with professionals in your field can connect you with mentors, secure job referrals and gain insights into industry trends.
  • Improve your understanding of U.S. workplace culture. Interning in a professional environment in the U.S. can help you learn about workplace etiquette, communication styles and teamwork dynamics. Understanding these aspects of workplace culture can help you integrate smoothly into future work settings.

How to find CPT opportunities

Finding internships based on CPT for international students can take some time and effort, but there are several ways to increase your chances.

  1. University career services: Many universities have career centers that offer job listings, resume reviews and interview preparation tailored to international students. Career advisors can provide guidance on creating a strong application and help you understand employer expectations, making it easier to find CPT opportunities.
  1. Networking: Attend career fairs, talk to professors, and connect with professionals in your field to increase your chances of finding CPT opportunities. Building a strong professional network can lead to valuable referrals and inside knowledge about job openings.
  1. Online job boards: Websites like LinkedIn, Indeed and specialized job portals include many international student job opportunities. These sites often let you filter searches based on your eligibility for CPT roles. Regularly updating your profile and engaging with job postings may increase your visibility with potential employers and improve your chances of finding a position.
  1. Internship programs: Some companies have established internship programs designed specifically for international students. These typically offer structured training and may lead to long-term employment opportunities. Researching companies with a track record of hiring international students can help you focus your search on employers familiar with CPT requirements.
  1. Professional associations: Joining professional associations related to your field of study may give you access to exclusive job postings, networking events and career development resources. These associations often offer mentorship programs and workshops that can give you an edge in your job search.
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MPOWER Financing: Assistance with CPT opportunities

MPOWER Financing was founded in 2014 to provide international student resources to help remove the financial obstacles often faced by global citizens studying abroad. In addition to helping international students finance their education, MPOWER offers career guidance and visa support through its Path2Success program. When you work with MPOWER, you can take advantage of free visa services, including visa support letters and a visa preparation course, as well as career services that include guidance on searching for internships and jobs through CPT, OPT and H-1B sponsorships.

In addition to the Path2Success program, MPOWER offers:

  • Flexible loans: Borrow up to US$100,000 for studies at 500+ U.S. and Canadian universities.
  • Scholarships: A range of scholarship opportunities for international and DACA students.

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FAQs

Are there different CPT requirements for graduate students or postgrads?

Yes, graduate students may have different CPT requirements than undergrads depending on their academic program. Some graduate programs may allow immediate CPT participation if it’s a mandatory part of the curriculum, whereas undergraduates typically must complete one academic year before becoming eligible.

How do I apply?

To apply for CPT, you need to secure a job offer that’s directly related to your field of study, obtain approval from your designated school official (DSO), and receive an updated Form I-20 that includes CPT authorization before starting work.

What documents do I need to submit for CPT approval?

Generally, you’ll need a job offer letter from an employer, proof of course enrollment (if required), and any application forms specified by your school’s international office.

Can I work for multiple employers on CPT?

No, CPT authorization is job-specific, meaning you can only work for the employer approved by your school. If you want to work for multiple employers, you’ll need to get separate approvals and a new Form I-20 for each.

Is CPT available for part-time and full-time work?

Yes, CPT can be either part time (up to 20 hours per week while school is in session) or full time (more than 20 hours per week during breaks or if allowed by the program).

Does CPT affect my eligibility for OPT?

Yes, if you complete 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you will not be eligible for optional practical training (OPT). However, part-time CPT does not impact your eligibility for OPT.

Do I need to be enrolled in a specific course to apply for CPT?

Yes, CPT must be an integral part of your academic program, which means you may need to enroll in a course that includes practical training as a requirement.

Is there a deadline to apply for CPT?

While there’s no universal deadline, universities usually have their own application deadlines based on semester timelines, so it’s important to check with your DSO and apply well in advance.

Can I apply for CPT more than once?

Yes, you can apply for CPT multiple times as long as it remains an integral part of your academic program and does not exceed the limits imposed by your school or immigration regulations.


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