CPT Processing Time: The standard processing for most student requests, including CPT, is 5 business days (excluding weekends and holidays), but you should apply at least 2 weeks before your employment start date to ensure that your CPT is approved on time and you have your CPT I-20 in hand on your first day of work.
CPT is defined as alternative work/study, internship, cooperative education, or any other type of required internship or practicum that is offered by sponsoring employers through cooperative agreements with the school which must be "an integral part of an established curriculum" (8 CFR 241.2(f)(10)).
CPT is usually granted for one semester or term. You may only work for the time period authorized on your I-20. However, you may request to extend your CPT. You must extend your CPT before your work authorization expires.
CPT is typically authorized one semester at a time and is based on your CPT course enrollment confirmation, or your department's required practical training experience.
How long does CPT authorization take? It takes 7-10 business days for Career Planning & Development and the Office of International Affairs to process work authorizations. You must plan ahead and you should inform your employer of your special requirements as an F-1 student.
CPT is authorized by a Designated School Official (DSO) at International Student Services (ISS). It may take ISS 15 business days to review and approve a student's CPT request. An F-1 student must request authorization from the school at which they are enrolled full-time with their F-1 I-20.
Students can work part-time on campus up to 20 hours and part-time on CPT simultaneously. Example: Students can work up to 20 hours per week on-campus and additionally up to 20 hours per week on part-time CPT or over 21 hours per week on full-time CPT so long as the work does not interfere with academic progress.
Eligibility for CPT Be in valid F-1 immigration status for at least two full-time semesters (1 academic year). Secure an academically appropriate internship offer directly related to the student's field of study. Obtain CPT authorization BEFORE beginning employment; authorization cannot be back-dated.
CPT is defined as alternative work/study, internship, cooperative education, or any other type of required internship or practicum that is offered by sponsoring employers through cooperative agreements with the school which must be "an integral part of an established curriculum" (8 CFR 241.2(f)(10)).
A cooperative agreement is a hybrid between a contract and a grant. While its purpose is typically similar to a grant in that it focuses on increased scientific knowledge, the sponsor takes a more active role as a partner to the research, rather than just a funder.