Where do I start when applying for CPT in the USA as an international student?
12 Oct 2026 · Answered by Deepak Kumar · 2 min read
Quick Answer
verified
To apply for CPT, start early, complete the CPT online certification course, get a Detailed Training Description from your employer, and share your documents with the International Student and Scholar Advisor. Do not start work until your CPT I-20 is approved.
Start your CPT application early, because the process is lengthy and can take up to 2 weeks, and longer during peak season. Follow the steps below in order and do not begin work before your approval.
CPT Application Steps
| Step | What you do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Start early, since the process can take up to 2 weeks or more in peak season |
| 2 | Complete the CPT online certification course |
| 3 | Get a Detailed Training Description from your employer and inform your Faculty Advisor |
| 4 | Give all relevant documents and information to the International Student and Scholar Advisor for review |
| 5 | Receive approval on your CPT I-20, then print it, sign it and keep it safe |
Rules to Remember
- No paid or unpaid work can start until you have received your CPT approval on the I-20.
- Working full-time on CPT for 12 months at the same education level makes you ineligible to apply for OPT.
- To stay eligible for OPT, work part-time on CPT or full-time for less than 12 months.
My Advice
Treat the 12-month full-time limit as a hard line and track your CPT months from day one. Speak to your international student office before you accept an offer, so your plan for OPT stays safe.
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