Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a temporary work authorization that allows F-1 international students in the US to gain off-campus work experience, such as internships or co-op programs, while completing their degree. Unlike Optional Practical Training (OPT), which is approved directly by USCIS after graduation, CPT is authorized entirely by a university's Designated School Official (DSO). For CPT to be legal under federal law, the work must be an integral part of the school's established academic curriculum and directly related to the student's major. Thousands of Indian international students enrol at CPT programs every year.
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