Frequently Asked Question

No, Curricular Practical Training (CPT) work authorization cannot be issued or approved before the program start date, as per federal regulations (8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(i)).

The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) defines CPT as employment that is an integral part of an established curriculum, such as internships, practicums, or cooperative education. CPT requires both a job offer and authorization from the Designated School Official (DSO) before a student begins working.

It is important to note that there is no official “30-day rule” within the CFR for CPT. The “30-day” time frame sometimes mentioned by universities is an administrative guideline—not a regulation. This guideline primarily relates to Social Security Number (SSN) applications, as the Social Security Administration (SSA) allows students authorized for CPT to apply for an SSN no earlier than 30 days before their employment start date.

In summary, students may not begin CPT employment before the program start date, and all authorization must be formally approved by the DSO in compliance with federal regulations.