Glossary · Concepts & rules
Day-1 CPT
F-1 graduate programs that authorize CPT (work) from the first day of enrollment. Heavily scrutinized; many flagged by ICE/SEVP.
Some master's programs offer Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization from day one of enrollment, allowing students to work full-time on F-1 status while attending classes. Marketed aggressively to laid-off H-1B workers. WARNING: ICE/SEVP have flagged several of these schools; USCIS scrutinizes the underlying I-539 heavily. The program must be 'integral to the established curriculum' per 8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(i). Future H-1B / green-card adjudications often question whether the F-1 was bona fide. Use only if you have a genuine educational goal AND the school is regionally accredited.
Sources & official references
- 8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(i)— F-1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT) — must be integral part of established curriculum and tied to a specific employer.
Related terms
F-1
Academic-student visa. Allows study + limited work via OPT and CPT.
CPT (Curricular Practical Training)
F-1 work authorization tied to a specific course requirement or internship — granted by the school, not USCIS.
I-539 (Change/Extend Nonimmigrant Status)
The form you file to change from H-1B to H-4, F-1, B-2, or to extend nonimmigrant status without leaving the US.
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