Pros and Cons of Day 1 CPT Programs
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What is CPT? What You Should Know About CPT Programs

Real-world work experience and internship opportunities are among the many benefits of attending accredited degree programs and institutions for traditional and international students.

With that in mind, many colleges and institutions become Curricular Practical Training (CPT) institutions in order for international students to receive practical training in their chosen fields.

What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows international F-1 students to work while pursuing their studies with authorization primarily granted by their educational institution.

Additionally, the Study in the States defines CPT as training that relates directly to the student’s major area of study and is an integral part of the school’s established curriculum. Curricular Practical Training occurs before the end date found on the student’s Form I-20 and the authorization is approved for one specific employer during a specific period of time. • CPT must be authorized before the student can begin work.

This innovative approach allows students to balance their academic and professional commitments right from the beginning of the program by allowing them to work a set number of hours per week in a job related to their major field of study and be an integral part of their course curriculum.

What is Day 1 CPT? Is it different from CPT?

Day 1 CPT allows a student to begin work from the first day they start school, while a regular CPT program requires students to focus on schooling for a certain length of time before they find work that complements their training and degree. It is important to note that starting CPT after a certain amount of time in the classroom allows students to develop their expertise in their chosen field, making them highly skilled and attractive to prospective employers. Starting in a Day 1 CPT program does not provide students with the same advantage.

Who is Eligible for Curricular Practical Training?

First and foremost, CPT is not universally available at all institutions and programs, so students should research to see if their desired school and program offers this policy designation. Beyond that, Day 1 CPT schools are even fewer and farther between.

If CPT is offered and it meets institutional requirements, like University of Bridgeport’s Curricular Practical Training program, students must also qualify and meet specific eligibility requirements, such as:

  • Maintaining lawful F-1 status.
  • Satisfying one full academic year (full spring and fall semesters) requirement for their current degree program set by both immigration and the institution.
  • Continuing enrollment for a full course of study during Curricular Practical Training.
  • Meeting all academic criteria set by the student’s academic department.
  • Not being enrolled in University of Bridgeport’s English language institute.
  • Ensuring the internship or co-op position is not as an independent contractor
  • Not working remotely or any place other than the company location (note: remote work is currently allowed due to COVID-19).

CPT programs allow international students to gain work experience, learn and live with diverse communities, and experience and involve themselves in American campuses and activities, all while earning their college degree.

Find out more about the CPT program at University of Bridgeport by contacting us. We can’t wait to give you the individual and personalized attention you deserve in and out of the classroom!