General Information
Day 1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows F-1 students to begin work related to their degree as soon as they start their academic program. This is typically incorporated into programs where practical training is an integral part of the curriculum.
Eligibility depends on whether your academic program requires immediate work experience. You should confirm this with your designated school official (DSO) and ensure it complies with F-1 visa guidelines.
Unlike traditional CPT, which requires students to complete one academic year before starting employment, Day 1 CPT allows immediate work authorization upon beginning the program, provided the work experience is necessary for your degree.
No, only certain institutions and programs offer Day 1 CPT, usually due to specific program requirements that involve practical training from the start. You should verify this with individual universities.
Switching is possible, but you must meet the academic program’s requirements and work with your DSO to ensure you remain compliant with visa regulations.
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Application Process
To apply, consult with your DSO and complete the necessary forms. You'll typically need a job offer in your field of study, and the school will provide authorization on your Form I-20.
Common requirements include a formal job offer letter, an updated Form I-20 with CPT authorization, and possibly additional program-specific documents. Always confirm with your school for exact documentation.
No, Day 1 CPT doesn’t require a new visa application; it is an authorization on your existing F-1 visa. You must, however, receive approval from your school before starting employment.
The authorization process timeframe depends on the school. Some institutions may take a few days to process the application, while others may take longer. It’s best to start the process early.
Yes, a job offer related to your degree program is typically required to apply for CPT authorization. This is because CPT is employment-based training tied to your specific field of study.
Work Authorization
Yes, Day 1 CPT allows for both part-time and full-time work as long as it meets your academic requirements and you have approval from your DSO.
Students can generally work full-time (more than 20 hours per week) or part-time (20 hours or less), depending on the program requirements and authorization from their school.
Participating in Day 1 CPT part-time does not typically affect your Optional Practical Training (OPT) eligibility. However, full-time CPT for 12 months or more may affect OPT, so check with your DSO.
Yes, you can continue with the same employer under OPT, but you must reapply for authorization through OPT and ensure your work remains related to your field of study.
No, Day 1 CPT does not require employer sponsorship. However, you must have a valid job offer in your field of study, as CPT authorization is tied to a specific employer.
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Program Requirements
Yes, Day 1 CPT is typically tied to a specific course that requires practical training. Your school’s curriculum should outline which courses qualify and how they relate to CPT.
Changing majors is possible but may impact your CPT eligibility, as the work experience must relate to your academic program. Consult with your DSO before making any changes.
Withdrawing from the CPT-related course can void your CPT authorization, which may affect your work status. Always discuss changes to your enrollment with your DSO to stay compliant.
Requirements vary by institution. Some programs may have specific GPA thresholds for CPT eligibility, so it’s best to check with your school’s policies.
Day 1 CPT typically limits students to one employer at a time. If you need to work with multiple employers, you must seek separate authorization for each position.
Travel and SEVIS Compliance
Yes, you can travel internationally, but you’ll need a valid I-20 with CPT authorization, a passport, and an F-1 visa for re-entry. Discuss travel plans with your DSO to ensure compliance.
If your SEVIS record is terminated, your CPT authorization will also end, affecting your legal status. Contact your DSO immediately if you experience any issues with your SEVIS status.
Yes, your SEVIS record must reflect CPT authorization, including details of your employer, work hours, and duration of employment. This is managed by your DSO.
Yes, Day 1 CPT authorization is documented on your Form I-20, which includes information about your employer and job start and end dates.
Yes, changing your DSO is possible, but you should inform your new DSO about your CPT status to maintain compliance and ensure smooth transitions in your SEVIS record.
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