US immigration authorities have tightened scrutiny of Curricular Practical Training (CPT), a work-authorisation option widely used by F-1 international students, including Indians.
The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), under ICE, has warned university officials against improperly approving CPT applications. The latest move does not introduce a new rule, but signals stricter enforcement of existing regulations.
CPT allows eligible F-1 students to take up internships, practicums and other work opportunities that are directly related to their academic programme.
The employment must be an integral part of the curriculum and must be approved by the university before the student starts working.
US authorities are now expected to closely examine whether colleges are using academic courses merely as a route to provide work authorisation.
Some universities, including UC Berkeley and UC Davis, have already reviewed or restricted certain forms of course-credit CPT while continuing degree-required CPT.
The development could also bring greater scrutiny to so-called “Day 1 CPT” programmes, especially if immigration authorities believe the academic programme is being used mainly to facilitate employment.
Importantly, CPT has not been cancelled. However, students may now face stricter documentation and approval requirements.
International students should make sure their CPT is genuinely connected to their degree, obtain an updated I-20 before starting work and avoid any employment that has not been properly authorised.
The message from US immigration authorities is clear: CPT remains available, but loose or questionable approvals are likely to face much tougher scrutiny.
