How to Secure Work or an Internship in the United States
A female international student with a lanyard and ID smiles at her workplace, embodying the success that comes with gaining professional experience in the U.S.
Are you seeking a job or internship in the United States? International students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in their field of study through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) while pursuing their education in the U.S. CPT allows students to engage in full- or part-time internships, work-study positions, or other relevant roles, provided the training occurs before the program’s completion, is directly related to their academic course, and meets certain CPT work authorization criteria. Read on to learn more.
What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?
CPT is one of two practical training options available to F-1 visa holders in the United States; the other option is Optional Practical Training (OPT). Practical training through CPT can take the form of internships or even paid positions within your area of study, offering the kind of real-world experience that’s invaluable when determining your career path.
There are specific rules governing both CPT and OPT. For instance, if you’re applying for either, you must not be currently enrolled in an English as a Second Language (ESL) program. The key point to remember is that CPT must take place before you graduate or complete your degree, whereas OPT can occur either before or after you finish your academic program.
According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS.gov), the following criteria define Curricular Practical Training:
- The training must be directly related to your major.
- The training must be an integral part of your academic program’s curriculum.
- Your Designated School Official (DSO) must authorize your CPT in the SEVIS system and update your I-20 form accordingly.
- CPT must take place before the completion date of your program as listed on your I-20.
- Each CPT work authorization is employer-specific and valid for a designated time period.
- You must have a confirmed training opportunity before CPT can be authorized.
- Your CPT must be officially approved before you start working.
- You may have multiple CPT authorizations simultaneously, provided they meet the requirements.
- If you work full-time on CPT for more than 12 months, you will lose eligibility for OPT.
How Long Can CPT Last for International Students?
CPT must conclude by the end date specified on your I-20 form, meaning that you can benefit from CPT as long as you are enrolled full-time and actively working towards your degree. You can engage in multiple CPT roles, even simultaneously, but be aware that exceeding 12 months of full-time CPT will disqualify you from OPT.
As an F-1 visa holder, CPT authorization allows you to work full-time or part-time. Full-time CPT permits up to 40 hours of work per week, while part-time CPT allows up to 20 hours per week. Understanding these options is crucial before making a decision that could impact your post-graduation OPT eligibility.
Who is Eligible for CPT?
To qualify for CPT as an F-1 visa student in the United States, you must meet the following requirements:
- Your university must be SEVP-certified.
- You must be a full-time student and have completed at least one academic year.
- You must not be enrolled in an ESL program.
- You must have a confirmed internship or job offer.
If you meet these criteria, you should be eligible for CPT and can proceed with the application process.
How to Apply for CPT
The first step in applying for CPT is to secure a job offer from your desired employer. Ensure that the offer letter is on official company letterhead and includes the following details:
- Your name
- Job title
- Job description
- Employment address
- Start and end dates of your CPT employment
- Whether the position is full-time or part-time
With this letter in hand, you can begin the CPT authorization process with your university’s Designated School Official (DSO). Your DSO will update your I-20 form to reflect your CPT status and provide you with a new copy.
Many students and advisors suggest that obtaining CPT is often quicker and simpler than obtaining OPT since CPT typically involves a straightforward meeting with your DSO and is often integrated into your academic program. However, planning ahead is always wise. Consult with your university’s DSO before starting the CPT application process to ensure you understand what to expect.
CPT Authorization
Once you qualify for CPT, your DSO will annotate page three of your I-20 form with the CPT authorization. Remember, CPT work authorization is employer-specific, location-specific, and time-limited, as detailed on page three of your I-20. To maintain your CPT eligibility, you must adhere to the job conditions specified in your authorization. If you notice any discrepancies or have questions, contact your DSO immediately.
CPT Job Requirements for Students
There are various ways to apply for and utilize CPT while studying at a U.S. university. Some programs, such as the Global MBA at Adelphi University, include professional development opportunities as part of their curriculum. When researching degree programs, look for U.S. universities that align with CPT opportunities for international students.
To qualify for CPT, the training must be an essential component of your curriculum. For example, you might be required to complete an internship in your field as a graduation requirement. Additionally, the training must be relevant to your chosen field of study. If, for example, you are studying English but receive a work-study job in engineering, you would not qualify for CPT.
While the government permits full-time or part-time work under CPT, your school may have its own policies limiting how much you can work per semester or while enrolled in a full course load. It’s crucial to understand your school’s policies before committing to a position.
If you’re considering job or internship options post-graduation, OPT might be a more suitable choice than CPT.
Have questions about CPT requirements, eligibility, or the application process? Our expert counselors are here to assist you. Contact us today to accelerate your path to success.
