CPT rules for F-1 visa students explained

If you’re a student from Nepal planning to study in the United States, you’ve likely heard about CPT or curricular practical training. CPT for international students lets you gain real-world work experience while staying compliant with your F-1 visa. But figuring out how it works, when you’re eligible and what steps you need to take can be confusing, especially when you’re juggling classwork and life in a new country.

This guide breaks down the CPT rules for F-1 visa holders in simple terms. You’ll learn what CPT is, how to qualify and what Nepali students should expect when trying to work while studying in the U.S.

Eligibility requirements for CPT

Before you can apply for CPT, you need to meet several requirements:

You must be on a valid F-1 student visa.
You must be enrolled full time at a U.S. university that is certified by SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program).
You must have completed at least one full academic year (two semesters) of study unless your degree program requires earlier participation.
The job must be directly related to your field of study.
You must receive authorization from your designated school official (DSO) before beginning work.

These rules are non-negotiable. Even small violations of student visa work restrictions can put your immigration status at risk. That’s why you should never begin working until you have written CPT approval and a new Form I-20.

A career services workshop in session at a U.S. university. A group of international students, including a young Nepali woman, listens to a professional giving a presentation on CPT and work authorization rules. Folders, job fair flyers, and handouts cover the students’ desks.

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What is CPT and why it matters for Nepali students

Curricular practical training is a type of work permit for international students that allows F-1 visa holders to work while enrolled in a full-time degree program in the U.S. The work must be directly tied to your academic program, either as a required component or as an integral part of your studies.

For students from Nepal, this type of practical training is a major benefit. It gives you the chance to earn income, gain skills and make professional connections in your field before graduation. This is especially valuable if you plan to return to Nepal with international work experience or apply for optional practical training (OPT) later.

Unlike some work options in Nepal where internships may be informal or arranged by your college, CPT in the U.S. is a formal process with rules that must be followed closely.

How to apply for CPT as a Nepali student

The CPT application process starts at your university. Most schools have detailed guidance on how to apply, but the general steps are:

Secure a job offer You cannot apply for CPT without an official job or internship offer that is directly related to your major. This might be a summer internship, a part-time role during the semester or a required practicum.
Get academic department approval Your department must verify that the work is tied to your degree and meets CPT requirements. Some programs require you to enroll in a course that corresponds to your internship or training.
Meet with your DSO Your designated school official will update your SEVIS record and issue a new Form I-20 with CPT authorization. The I-20 will list the name of your employer, work dates and whether it is part time or full time.
Wait for approval You must receive CPT authorization in writing before starting work. Do not assume verbal confirmation is enough. Always follow up with documentation.

Every school sets its own internal deadlines, so talk to your DSO early to avoid delays. Nepali students often face tight timelines when arranging internships, so planning ahead is critical.

How CPT fits into your long-term visa plan

Many Nepali students who apply for CPT are also thinking about what comes next. Whether you want to apply for OPT, stay in the U.S. under an H-1B visa or return to Nepal with global experience, CPT can be a stepping stone.

It helps you:

Build your resume with U.S.-based experience
Make industry connections that may lead to full-time job offers
Become a more competitive candidate for OPT, especially in STEM fields

However, abusing CPT rules or skipping steps can backfire. If you begin work without proper authorization or misrepresent your academic program, you could lose your F-1 status and miss the opportunity for post-graduation work.

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Types of CPT: Full time vs. part time

There are two forms of CPT authorization, depending on how many hours per week you plan to work.

Part-time CPT: Up to 20 hours per week while school is in session. This is the most common option for students trying to balance classes and work.
Full-time CPT: More than 20 hours per week, usually allowed during school breaks or if your academic program requires full-time work.

If you complete more than 12 months of full-time CPT, you will no longer be eligible for optional practical training. However, part-time CPT does not affect your OPT eligibility. This is one of the most important CPT rules for F-1 visa holders to understand, especially if you’re planning a long-term career path that includes post-completion work in the U.S.

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FAQs

When can I apply for CPT as an F-1 student?You can apply after completing one full academic year at your U.S. university, unless your degree requires earlier CPT. Always check with your designated school official (DSO) for timing.

Do I need a job offer before applying for CPT?Yes. CPT requires a valid job or internship offer directly related to your field of study. You cannot apply in advance without one.

Can I do more than one CPT internship?Yes, but each new job needs separate CPT approval and a new I-20 form. Make sure every job meets the program requirements.

Does full-time CPT reduce my OPT time?Yes. If you complete 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you’ll lose eligibility for OPT. Part-time CPT does not affect your OPT.

Do I need to enroll in a class during CPT?Often, yes. Many universities require you to register for a course connected to your internship. Skipping this step may result in denial or status issues.

Can I change employers under CPT?Only if you receive new CPT approval from your DSO. CPT is job-specific, so switching without an update is not allowed.

How long does CPT approval take?It depends on your school. CPT approval can commonly take 1-2 weeks, but mistakes in your application can delay approval time.. Start early and submit all required documents to avoid delays.

Can unpaid internships qualify for CPT?Yes, as long as the internship meets CPT requirements and is tied to your academic program. You still need full approval before starting.

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Understanding CPT rules for F-1 Visas