UC Berkeley suspends work authorizations for international students indefinitely
Work permits halted due to changes in US immigration regulations
1What is the CPT program?
Course Credit CPT is a work authorization program that allows international students to gain practical work experience in exchange for academic credit. It provides F-1 visa holders with legal employment opportunities in the US. Students work in jobs directly related to their studies, gaining both experience and academic credit. The program plays a crucial role in students' career development and professional preparation.
2Berkeley's decision
The Berkeley International Office (BIO) announced Wednesday it would pause Course Credit CPT applications 'for the foreseeable future.' The decision follows a new memo from US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) received Monday. BIO stated this action serves the best interests of both F-1 status students and the university. The office emphasized it doesn't take this step lightly, recognizing CPT's importance in academic journeys.
3ICE's new regulations
ICE issued two memos within two weeks providing additional guidance for universities to monitor CPT authorizations in compliance with federal regulations. The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) has begun auditing schools. Institutions failing to comply risk losing certification to enroll international students. SEVP established a new tip line to report noncompliant decisions regarding student work authorizations.
4Impact on students
The suspension means international students lose work opportunities unless the position is 'an integral part of an established curriculum.' BIO acknowledged CPT's critical role in students' academic paths but faces legal uncertainties. Students must wait until the consultation process with legal counsel concludes, leaving their immediate work plans in limbo during this transitional period.
5Which applications continue?
BIO will continue processing 'degree-requirement' CPT applications, which cover mandatory academic components like graduation-required internships. The office pledged to collaborate with academic programs to build infrastructure for processing applications that meet ICE requirements. This distinction creates a two-tier system where some practical experiences remain available while others are suspended indefinitely.
6Legal process and uncertainty
BIO stated it needs more time to consult legal counsel following ICE's warning. While expressing hope to resume processing next week, no definitive timeline was provided. The office sends email notifications only once daily about updates, prolonging the information gap for affected students. This legal review period creates significant uncertainty for those relying on CPT for professional development.
7Shifts in international student policies
This development reflects the broader tightening of US policies toward international students. Recent immigration rule changes particularly impact STEM students' work authorizations. Universities are reevaluating international programs amid increased scrutiny. The changes come as global competition for talented students intensifies, with other countries potentially benefiting from US policy shifts.
8Long-term implications
This decision could profoundly affect international students' career trajectories at UC Berkeley. Restricted work experience opportunities may diminish post-graduation employment prospects. Universities' ability to attract global talent could suffer from such restrictions. Experts warn policy changes might weaken US leadership in global education as students reconsider study destinations with more favorable work policies.