If you’re an international student studying in the US, you may be interested in the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) visa. This is a special visa that allows international students to complete paid internships and work experience in the US while they are still enrolled in school. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the CPT visa.

Key Takeaways

• The CPT visa allows international students to complete paid work experience in the US while they are still enrolled in school.
• To be eligible for a CPT visa, you must have been enrolled in school for at least one year and be in good academic standing.
• You must also have a job offer that is related to your field of study in order to apply for a CPT visa.
• While on a CPT visa, you can work part-time or full-time, and your work experience must be an integral part of your academic program.

CPT Visa Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a CPT visa, you must meet certain requirements. These include:

Enrollment in a US Academic Institution

You must be currently enrolled in a US academic institution that is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and have completed at least one full academic year of study. You must also be in good academic standing.

Job Offer

You must have a job offer that is related to your field of study. This means that the work you will be doing must be directly related to your academic program.

Course Credit

Your work experience must be an integral part of your academic program, and you must receive course credit for it. Your school must have a cooperative agreement with your employer, and your work experience must be for academic credit.

Application Process

Once you have a job offer and have met the above requirements, you can apply for a CPT visa. You will need to fill out Form I-20, which is provided by your academic institution, and submit it to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

How CPT Works

Once you’ve been approved for a CPT visa, you can start your work experience in the US. You are allowed to work part-time or full-time, depending on your academic program requirements. You must also be enrolled in a related academic course, and your work experience must be an integral part of that program.

There are some limitations to the CPT visa. You cannot work more than 20 hours per week during the academic year, but you can work full-time during your academic breaks.

Conclusion

The CPT visa is a great opportunity for international students to gain work experience in the US while they are still enrolled in school. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply for a CPT visa and start your work experience in the US.

FAQs

How long does it take to get a CPT visa?

The processing time for a CPT visa varies, but it can take up to 90 days. It’s important to apply well in advance of when you want to start your work experience in the US.

Can I apply for a CPT visa more than once?

Yes, you can apply for a CPT visa multiple times as long as you meet the eligibility requirements each time.

Can I travel outside the US on a CPT visa?

Yes, you can travel outside the US on a CPT visa, but you must have the proper documentation to re-enter the US. It’s important to speak to your academic institution’s international student office before traveling outside the US.