US Cracks Down on CPT Work Visas for International Students

The U.S. Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) issued a broadcast message on Aug. 12 alerting designated school officials (DSOs) to a rise in Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorizations that violate federal rules. The agency said it has seen cases where the training was not an integral part of an established academic curriculum, a core requirement for the program.

SEVP, which operates under U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), warned that schools and DSOs found to be improperly authorizing CPT could face investigations, loss of SEVP certification, and legal penalties. The message emphasized that CPT cannot be used solely as a means to provide international students with employment.

CPT allows F-1 visa holders to participate in work-study programs or internships through agreements between their institution and an employer. Unlike Optional Practical Training (OPT), students do not need to apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services or obtain an Employment Authorization Document. Instead, a DSO must authorize CPT on the student's Form I-20, and the official certifies under penalty of perjury that the training is required or integral to the student's curriculum.

SEVP may request documentation at any time to prove that CPT is necessary for a student to complete their degree. If the agency suspects misuse, it can refer cases to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and potentially revoke a school's certification. The agency stated that while schools define their own degree requirements, it remains committed to identifying institutions that attempt to bypass federal regulations.

For students, the warning underscores that CPT is not a backdoor to employment. The work must be directly tied to their academic program, and institutions must maintain records supporting each authorization.