The Curricular Practical Training (CPT) program is a wonderful way for international students to work and study in the United States. You can apply for the program and earn money, gain work experience, and give your professional career a head start, allowing you to thrive in highly competitive industries. But first, how do you obtain a CPT work permit?
Your ultimate guide to the CPT application process and CPT work permits
Eligibility requirements
Not all international students in the United States are eligible to apply for the CPT program. You must be a legal F-1 visa holder and enrolled in a full-time academic program for at least one year before you can process your application.
Moreover, you can only start working after your CPT application has been approved. It’s important to note that your CPT job or internship must be related to your field of study to be considered. For instance, if you are enrolled in an MS Information Technology program in an accredited college, your line of work must involve IT systems and other relevant tasks.
Obtaining a work permit
Before obtaining a CPT work permit, you must make sure that your school offers a CPT program. If it does, you can proceed to the following steps:
Obtain a job offer letter from your employer, including essential information such as the company name and address
Apply for your college or university’s CPT program
Receive your application approval, which will detail your CPT start and end dates
Send the approval and other necessary documents to your employer
Begin working according to the approved start date for your CPT
Take note that CPT may only start after you have completed at least one academic year in your school. However, if you would like to begin working right away, you may consider applying for the Day 1 CPT program instead.
Do you need help with your CPT application and work permit? Contact a reputable educational consultant to find out more about the program and discover the best CPT University or college for your future.
