Concordia University Texas

• Attend all required in-person sessions (residencies) on campus each semester (online-only attendance is not allowed).
• Maintain full-time enrollment and comply with the university’s requirement for a full course of study: Enroll in all semesters and sessions (Fall, Spring, and Summer) each academic year and obtain a minimum of 6 credits per semester or session (18 credits per year).

There are short academic breaks between semesters and sessions. Please take a look at the academic calendar for more details. 

CTX has 3 semesters per year — Fall, Spring, and Summer.

Typically, it takes 2 years to complete the program. 

International students on CPT authorization may continue working during designated academic breaks provided they meet all conditions outlined in this policy and maintain compliance with federal immigration regulations.

To work during academic breaks, students must:

• Hold valid F-1 visa status
• Possess current CPT authorization from the Designated School Official (DSO)
• Be enrolled in a degree program at Concordia University
• Have registration for the subsequent academic term following the break
• Maintain good academic standing as listed in the Academic Catalog

Work Authorization During Breaks

1. Christmas Break

Students with valid CPT authorization may continue working during Christmas break

Work must be directly related to their field of study and approved CPT position

Students must be registered for the spring semester to maintain eligibility

2. Spring Break

Continued work authorization applies during Spring break for students with valid CPT

Students must be currently enrolled in the spring semester

Work must align with previously approved CPT arrangements

3. Other Designated Breaks

Work authorization during other academic breaks (as defined by the Academic Calendar) follows the same principles

Students must maintain enrollment in the academic term immediately following the break

Restrictions and Limitations

1. Work Hour Limitations

Part-time CPT students (20 hours or less per week during academic sessions) may work full-time during breaks

Full-time CPT students may continue full-time work during breaks

Work hours must not exceed what is specified in the CPT authorization

2. Employment Continuity

Students may only work for employers previously approved in their CPT authorization

Any change in employer requires new CPT authorization before the break period

Work location must remain consistent with approved CPT authorization

Reporting Obligations

Notify the International Student Services office of intent to work during breaks

Report any changes in employment status or work location

Maintain accurate records of work hours and duties

Ensure timely registration for subsequent academic terms

Compliance and Violations

Failure to comply with this policy may result in:

Termination of CPT authorization

Loss of F-1 status: Ineligibility for future immigration benefits

International Student Services will conduct periodic reviews of CPT compliance

Random audits of student work arrangements may be conducted

Students found in violation will be subject to immediate review and potential status termination

Pre-Break Requirements (minimum 30 days before break)

• Submit Break Period Work Request form to International Student Services
• Provide updated employment verification from CPT employer
• Confirm registration status for post-break academic term
• Attend mandatory pre-break compliance meeting (if required)

During Break Period

• Maintain regular communication with DSO if requested
• Report any changes in work status immediately
• Keep detailed records of work activities and hours
• Ensure continued compliance with all CPT regulations

Post-Break Requirements (within 10 days of term resumption)

• Submit Break Period Work Summary report
• Verify continued enrollment and academic progress
• Update CPT authorization if needed for continuing work