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 an increase in Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorizations that violate federal regulations. The agency specifically flagged cases where the training was not an integral part of an established academic curriculum.

SEVP, which operates under U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), said improper authorization could trigger investigations, loss of SEVP certification, and legal repercussions. The warning targets colleges that use CPT as a workaround to provide international students with employment rather than genuine academic training.

CPT allows F-1 visa students to participate in work-study programs or internships through agreements between their institution and an employer. Students must have completed one full academic year and be enrolled full time at an ICE SEVP-certified institution. Unlike optional practical training, CPT does not require U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services approval or an Employment Authorization Document; instead, a DSO authorizes it on the student's Form I-20.

When a DSO signs or re-signs Form I-20 to authorize CPT, the official certifies under penalty of perjury that the training is required or integral to the student's curriculum. SEVP may request documents at any time to prove the necessity of CPT for degree completion. Institutions suspected of misuse could face additional scrutiny from SEVP and Homeland Security Investigations, including withdrawal of SEVP certification.

SEVP acknowledged that schools define degree requirements but emphasized its commitment to identifying institutions that attempt to bypass federal oversight. The agency's message to students is clear: CPT must be directly connected to academic programs and backed by institutional records.