In Progress
1) F-1 Student Path (Your Foundation)
Execute CPT correctly (your internship lifeline)
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is how you legally work internships while still a student. You're eligible after completing one full academic year—unless your program requires an internship earlier. Part-time CPT (20 hours or less) is safe. Full-time CPT (more than 20 hours) comes with a trap: if you accumulate 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you lose your OPT eligibility entirely. That means no work authorization after graduation. Track your CPT days religiously—most students who lose OPT didn't know they crossed the line until it was too late.
The government must always know where you are sleeping.
- You must report any change of address to your DSO within 10 days of moving.
- Most schools have an online portal (like iStart or SEVIS Portal) where you update this. Failure to do this is a serious violation that can lead to record termination.
Free Resource: HOW TO CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS WITH USCIS online
Resources
Record your progress
Mark this subsection complete to track your progress.