US Authorities Tighten Scrutiny on Student CPT Approvals

The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) warned colleges on August 12 that they face potential legal or administrative action for improperly approving Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for international students.

SEVP clarified that CPT must be an integral, required part of an academic curriculum, explicitly stating that work authorization cannot be granted solely for gaining general work experience.

Designated school officials must now maintain rigorous evidence that training is directly related to a student's major, as authorities increase oversight to prevent the misuse of CPT for employment.