F-1: Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is work authorization granted to international students in F-1 status to get practical training that is related to their degree and is an “integral part of an established curriculum.” CPT enables students to apply and practice the knowledge and skills gained in their academic programs.
Important CPT Details
- CPT is required for both paid and unpaid positions.
- CPT is a duration, location & employer specific work authorization that has to be authorized prior to the start date.
- There must be a bona fide employer-employee relationship. Activities that may not qualify for CPT: self-employment; starting a business; consulting or working as a 1099 independent contractor.
- Full-time vs Part-time CPT
- Part-time CPT is up to 20 hours per week, while Full-time CPT is anything above 20 hours per week
- Students are limited to Part-time CPT during the academic year (Fall & Spring)
- Full-time CPT is available only during the summer break as long as they are enrolled in the next term (i.e. fall semester). Completion of a program in the summer forfeits the earned annual vacation so students would only be eligible for Part-time CPT.
- Part-time CPT has no impact on eligibility on Optional Practical Training (OPT). Only if students are authorized for 365+ days of Full-time CPT, they would you lose their eligibility for OPT.
For questions about CPT, contact ISSS (isss@babson.edu).