Trump administration warns colleges of legal risk for improper CPT approvals

On August 12, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program, housed within ICE, issued a broadcast to designated school officials warning that the administration has detected a rise in Curricular Practical Training approvals that fail to meet federal requirements. The notice clarifies that CPT must be a genuine, curriculum-linked component of an F-1 student's program and cannot be used merely as a pathway to employment. When a DSO signs a Form I-20 to authorize CPT, they certify the training's necessity under penalty of perjury, and SEVP may request supporting evidence or launch investigations into schools that appear to circumvent the rules.

Institutions risk heightened scrutiny, potential withdrawal of SEVP certification, and possible penalties for providing false information. The agency also reminded that students must be in the United States solely to pursue a full program of study. Schools are instructed to maintain thorough records and consult SEVP field representatives when questions arise.