CPT and Unpaid Training

CPT and unpaid training Links to an external site.: Although the CPT regulations permit employment, CPT should not be looked at simply as a form of "work authorization." The US Department of Homeland Security has stated that "Compensation is not a consideration when determining whether an opportunity qualifies as CPT.” Therefore, if a training opportunity meets the necessary criteria, CPT is recommended even if the training is unpaid. If the unpaid training is not covered by an authorization such as CPT, the student could risk his or her current F-1 status, as well as eligibility for future statuses such as H-1B, Permanent Residency, etc.