What is CPT and how do I get authorised for a US internship on an F-1 visa?

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is work authorisation for F-1 students to participate in internships, co-ops, or other practical training experiences that are an integral part of their academic programme.

Key characteristics of CPT:
- Must be directly related to your major field of study
- Must be part of a course (you register for the course, receive credit or a grade)
- Must be authorised by your DSO (Designated School Official) before you start working
- Can be part-time (20 hours/week or less) or full-time (more than 20 hours/week)
- No application to USCIS — only your DSO authorises it via a new I-20

How to apply for CPT:
1. Find an internship/co-op with an employer
2. Register for the required practicum or internship course at your school
3. Get an offer letter from the employer (must state: start date, end date, work address, job title, and hours/week)
4. Request CPT authorisation from your International Student Office — submit the offer letter + enrollment in the course
5. Receive a new I-20 with the CPT authorisation listed
6. Start work on or after the CPT start date on your I-20

Critical warning about CPT and OPT:
If you use 12 or more months of full-time CPT before completing your degree, you lose your OPT eligibility entirely. Part-time CPT does not affect OPT eligibility regardless of duration.

STEM and non-STEM: All fields can use CPT — it is not restricted to STEM. Common in engineering, business, computer science, social work, and many others.

Paid CPT: CPT can be paid — you can and should negotiate a competitive internship salary.