Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is an employment authorization program in the United States for international students on F-1 student visas. It allows students to gain practical work experience directly related to their field of study as an integral part of their academic program.

Day 1 CPT refers to the option for students to begin their CPT employment from the first day of their academic program. This provides international students with the opportunity to gain valuable work experience while pursuing their degree.

CPT EXPERTS offers personalized guidance to help you choose the right university with Day 1 CPT opportunities. We consider factors such as program offerings, accreditation, CPT policies, location, and career services to ensure a fulfilling academic and professional experience.

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Why choose a CPT Expert University? Harrisburg University, Ottawa University, National Louis University, and Humphreys University are ranked as the best day 1 CPT schools for a reason. They have the student in mind with affordable programs, a hybrid format that lets students live and work anywhere in the country while pursuing their degree, and of course, students are authorized for CPT from day 1 of the program with no gaps or breaks; renewing their CPT only 1 time per year.

Yes, CPT is a legal form of employment authorization for international students studying in the United States. However, it is essential to follow the regulations set by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and maintain F-1 status throughout the CPT period.

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Our universities work hard to maintain full compliance with USCIS regulations and assist students to be in compliance as well.

CPT allows international students to work off-campus in paid or unpaid internships, cooperative education programs, or other types of work experience directly related to their field of study. Students must receive authorization from their Designated School Official (DSO) and obtain the necessary documentation before engaging in CPT.

International students pursuing degrees in the United States benefit from CPT as it provides them with practical work experience, enhances their skillset, and allows them to explore career opportunities in their field of study.

1. Immediate Work Authorization: Day 1 CPT allows students to begin their practical work experience from the first day of their academic program, providing immediate employment opportunities.

2. Gain Practical Experience: Day 1 CPT enables students to gain valuable practical work experience directly related to their field of study, enhancing their skillset and knowledge in real-world settings.

3. Enhanced Learning: Engaging in CPT allows students to apply theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom to practical work scenarios, reinforcing their understanding and learning outcomes.

4. Networking Opportunities: Day 1 CPT provides students with opportunities to network with professionals in their industry, build professional relationships, and expand their professional network for future career prospects.

5. Financial Support: Participating in Day 1 CPT allows students to earn income through employment, providing financial support to cover living expenses, tuition fees, and other educational costs.

6. Career Development: Day 1 CPT experience enhances students' resumes, making them more competitive in the job market upon graduation. It demonstrates practical skills and hands-on experience to potential employers.

7. Employment Flexibility: Day 1 CPT offers flexibility in employment options, allowing students to explore various internship opportunities, part-time or full-time positions, and industry sectors aligned with their career goals.

8. Immigration Compliance: Day 1 CPT is a legal form of employment authorization for international students studying in the United States, ensuring compliance with immigration regulations while gaining practical work experience.

9. Integration into U.S. Work Culture: Engaging in Day 1 CPT provides international students with exposure to the U.S. work culture, professional norms, and workplace dynamics, facilitating their integration into the American workforce.

10. Pathway to OPT and Career Opportunities: Day 1 CPT experience can serve as a stepping stone to Optional Practical Training (OPT) and other long-term career opportunities in the United States, enhancing students' prospects for future employment and immigration pathways.

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Overall, Day 1 CPT offers numerous benefits for international students seeking practical work experience while pursuing their academic goals in the United States, contributing to their personal, academic, and professional development.

To be eligible for CPT, international students must meet certain requirements, including maintaining F-1 status, securing a job offer related to their field of study, obtaining authorization from their DSO, and complying with USCIS regulations.

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At CPT EXPERTS, we are committed to helping international students achieve their academic and professional aspirations in the United States. Contact us today to learn more about our services and start your journey to success with Day 1 CPT!

While CPT is designed for practical work experience during an academic program, Optional Practical Training (OPT) is available to F-1 students after completing their academic program. OPT provides an additional opportunity for international students to gain practical work experience in their field of study.

One of the common questions among international students is whether they can participate in both Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) during their academic journey in the United States. Let's delve into this topic to provide clarity on the matter.

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Understanding CPT and OPT

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Before discussing whether a student can do both CPT and OPT, it's essential to understand the differences between the two programs:

• CPT (Curricular Practical Training): CPT is an employment authorization that allows international students to gain practical work experience directly related to their field of study as part of their academic program. It can be undertaken during the student's program of study and requires authorization from the Designated School Official (DSO) and compliance with USCIS regulations.

• OPT (Optional Practical Training): OPT, on the other hand, is an employment authorization available to F-1 students upon completion of their academic program. It allows students to gain practical work experience in their field of study for up to 12 months (or 24 months for certain STEM degrees) and requires application to USCIS for approval.

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Can a Student Do Both CPT and OPT?

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The short answer is yes, under certain circumstances, a student can participate in both CPT and OPT during their academic journey in the United States. However, it's essential to consider the following:

1. CPT During the Academic Program: International students can engage in CPT during their academic program, provided it is an integral part of their curriculum and directly related to their field of study. The employment must be authorized by the DSO, and the student must maintain F-1 status.

2. OPT After Completion of the Academic Program: Upon completion of their academic program, international students are eligible to apply for OPT to gain additional practical work experience in their field of study. OPT requires approval from USCIS and must be completed within specific timelines and regulations.

3. Timing and Duration: International students must carefully consider the timing and duration of both CPT and OPT to ensure compliance with regulations and maximize their opportunities for practical work experience while maintaining F-1 status.

4. STEM OPT Extension: For students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, there is an option to apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension after completing the initial 12-month OPT period.

Navigating the complexities of CPT, OPT, and other immigration-related matters can be overwhelming for international students. At CPT EXPERTS, we provide personalized consultation and guidance to help students understand their options, make informed decisions, and successfully navigate the process of obtaining practical work experience in the United States.