CPT compliance checklist: 7 mistakes Nepali students must avoid
Curricular practical training (CPT) can be a great opportunity for international students to earn money, gain real-world experience and build skills while completing their degree. But many Nepali students misunderstand the rules or overlook key steps, which can result in serious consequences, including loss of visa status or loss of optional practical training (OPT) later on.
If you’re studying in the U.S. on an F-1 visa, it is your responsibility to follow the CPT for international student rules exactly. This checklist will help you avoid seven of the most common mistakes Nepali students make with CPT and show you how to stay on track for your career goals.
1. Starting work before CPT is approved
You’re not allowed to begin working, training or even onboarding until your CPT is officially approved by your school and listed on your updated I-20. Even one unpaid training session or early login can count as unauthorized work and cause problems later during visa interviews or OPT approval.
What to do instead:
After receiving a job offer, submit all required documents to your designated school official (DSO) and wait until you receive a new I-20 with CPT listed. Only then can you legally receive work authorization for international students, including orientation or setup tasks.
2. Working in a job that doesn’t match your degree program
CPT must be directly related to your major, not just any job that pays well. For example, if you’re studying computer science, working as an office assistant or social media intern might not qualify. Nepali students often feel pressure to accept any opportunity available, especially if finances are tight, but misaligned jobs can lead to visa denials later.
What to do instead:
Make sure the job description clearly connects to your academic program. Talk with your DSO if you’re unsure. Keep written proof, such as your offer letter and class syllabus, in case of future questions during visa renewals or H-1B applications.
3. Skipping course enrollment or paperwork
Some universities require you to enroll in a specific class or internship credit course to qualify for CPT. If you forget to register or miss the deadline, your work could be deemed unauthorized even if you already received your CPT I-20.
What to do instead:
Double-check with your academic department and DSO to confirm if CPT is tied to any required coursework. Register for the course on time and complete any assignments or evaluations connected to your internship.
4. Working more hours than allowed
Part-time CPT is limited to 20 hours per week while school is in session. Going even slightly over this limit, even during peak project weeks, is considered a violation of F-1 rules. Some Nepali students mistakenly assume the hours are flexible if their employer asks them to stay longer.
What to do instead:
Track your hours carefully and have a clear conversation with your manager about limits. Let them know upfront that your visa only allows 20 hours per week while enrolled.
5. Completing too much full-time CPT and losing OPT eligibility
If you complete 12 months or more of full-time CPT (more than 20 hours per week), you will lose your eligibility for OPT after graduation. For many Nepali students who depend on OPT for income and H-1B sponsorship chances, this mistake can seriously limit future opportunities.
What to do instead:
Use full-time CPT only during summer or required co-op terms. Track how many total months you’ve used. Your DSO can help you confirm how much time remains before you hit the 12-month limit.
6. Forgetting to update your DSO when job details change
If your job title, location, supervisor or employer changes, you may need to update your CPT records. Many Nepali students forget this step and continue working under the old CPT authorization, thinking it still applies. But any major change could invalidate your work approval.
What to do instead:
If your job duties shift or you get assigned to a new team, tell your DSO right away. They will let you know if new paperwork is required. Keep your Form I-20 and job description consistent and up to date.
7. Assuming remote, freelance or unpaid work is automatically allowed
Just because a role is unpaid or online doesn’t mean it qualifies for CPT. If it’s off campus and involves work, even volunteer work, you still need CPT approval. Freelance gigs, startup side projects and short-term international student job opportunities are often risky unless your school approves them in writing.
What to do instead:
Never accept freelance or remote gigs without confirming with your DSO first. Even small unpaid projects can violate your visa if they don’t meet CPT standards. If a company cannot provide a formal offer letter or job description, it’s best to avoid the risk.
Balance career goals and visa rules
CPT lets you start building your future while you’re still in school, but financial pressure often makes the process stressful for Nepali students. Many students say yes to questionable internships or long hours simply to cover daily expenses.
MPOWER Financing offers an alternative with private education loans that are designed specifically for international students, with no cosigner or collateral required. With financial support for tuition and living expenses, you can focus on legal, career-building internships without risking your status.
MPOWER also offers:
- Career coaching and internship prep through the Path2Success program
- Visa-friendly job search resources and resume tools
- Support for budgeting during school and OPT
- Scholarships and fixed-rate loans for 500+ U.S. and Canadian universities
When you’re not forced to take risky roles or break the rules just to survive, your entire U.S. experience becomes safer and more rewarding.
What happens if you violate CPT rules?
Even small CPT violations can lead to major consequences. If you work without proper authorization, work more hours than allowed or skip key paperwork, you could face:
- Loss of F-1 visa status
- Denial of future OPT or STEM OPT applications
- Problems during future visa renewals or U.S. embassy interviews
- Ineligibility for H-1B or permanent residency sponsorship
Some Nepali students only learn the risks after speaking to an immigration attorney or hearing from friends who faced trouble. By following the rules from the beginning and asking your DSO before making any changes, you can protect your future work and study plans.
