{"id":4816,"date":"2025-09-02T10:00:28","date_gmt":"2025-09-02T14:00:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bridgeport.edu\/news\/?p=4816"},"modified":"2025-09-02T10:00:28","modified_gmt":"2025-09-02T14:00:28","slug":"what-is-part-time-cpt","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bridgeport.edu\/news\/what-is-part-time-cpt\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is a Part-Time CPT Program and Who Is Eligible?"},"content":{"rendered":"

International college students, this program is for you! The part-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Program<\/a> is an opportunity to earn some money while doing the job you\u2019re learning about in school. Let\u2019s get into what makes you eligible.<\/p>\n

Eligible CPT Program participants<\/h2>\n

The US offers non-citizens with F-1 visa status<\/strong> the chance to participate in the CPT Program.<\/p>\n

Firstly, what\u2019s an F-1 Visa? An F-1 status<\/a> refers to the visa granted to foreign nationals who are pursuing full-time academic studies at a US educational institution. These students must maintain a full course load, demonstrate academic progress, and comply with all relevant immigration regulations. So, to be eligible for this program, you\u2019re already a full-time student in the US.<\/p>\n

Additionally, the CPT Program is specifically for students already fluent in English<\/strong>. If you\u2019re here studying in the English Language Institute, this program isn\u2019t for you.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s also not for US citizens<\/strong>. But citizens looking for a similar experience can pursue internships\u2014paid or unpaid\u2014through university career services or by contacting employers directly. Some academic programs even include practical training as a required component.<\/p>\n

All about the CPT Program<\/h2>\n

So, if you\u2019re an international F-1 student looking to work while pursuing your studies, read on. Participation in the program is contractual and doesn\u2019t last forever, so it\u2019s always good to know your options.<\/p>\n

On the Form I-20<\/a>, authorization can be approved for one employer for a specific time period. Don\u2019t delay getting all the proper signatures, because the paperwork must be authorized before day one on the job.<\/p>\n

Tracking hours is another crucial element. The F-1 visa defines the particulars of being a full-time student as one enrolled with a minimum of 12 credit hours. So the weekly number of part-time CPT hours is 20 max, a key guideline that part-time CPT students must follow. Striking a balance is necessary, so find time to relax and have a little fun.<\/p>\n

What the CPT Program is not<\/h2>\n

The CPT Program is not the OPT Program<\/em>. The Optional Practical Training (OPT) Program allows students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months after completing their academic program. They also require forms from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).<\/p>\n

The CPT Program is also different from a Day-1 CPT Program<\/em>, which allows international students with an F-1 visa to work off-campus from the very first day of their academic program.<\/p>\n

At UB, we encourage students to immerse themselves in their area of study for a full academic year before applying for the CPT Program. Doing so helps students gain confidence in a new environment and fosters excitement about starting to tangibly implement their knowledge.<\/p>\n

How to enroll in the part-time CPT Program<\/h2>\n

Given the extensive paperwork required for college applications in the United States, it is advisable to start at least a year in advance. After completing the first academic year in the US, you can also apply to the CPT Program three weeks prior to your desired entry date.<\/p>\n

Applicants must have the following minimum GPA to apply: 2.5 (Undergraduate)and a 3.0 (Graduate). Keep an eye out for application updates; they are typically sent via email.<\/p>\n

Participation in the part-time CPT Program can last up to two years. Frequently asked questions include, \u201cCan I work full-time on my CPT?\u201d and “What are the part-time CPT limits?” Some schools do allow students to work full-time, but consequently, the time permitted in the CPT Program<\/a> is reduced to 11 months.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re motivated to gain as much hands-on experience as possible or just need the extra cash, consider working full-time in the summer or on school breaks, without affecting your program status. Remember, those administrative officials are and were wise in creating the part-time CPT Program.<\/p>\n

With students limited to working only part-time CPT hours (20 per week), there\u2019s still plenty of time left in the week for studying and enjoying the recreational activities we previously mentioned.<\/p>\n

Necessary forms & their fees<\/h3>\n

SS-5-FS<\/a><\/p>\n