Q: I started working by mistake before applying cpt and when im aware,i stopped in 4 days.I didnt get paid

A: It's understandable that you're concerned about your F-1 visa status after this mistake. Since you stopped working as soon as you realized the issue and didn't get paid, it's unlikely that this brief period of unauthorized work will have a significant impact on your visa status.

However, it’s important to report the situation to your Designated School Official (DSO) as soon as possible. They can provide guidance on any necessary steps to mitigate potential issues.

Moving forward, make sure to always secure the proper authorization, like CPT, before starting any employment. Taking proactive steps now can help prevent any complications with your F-1 status.

A: It's understandable that you are concerned about your situation, but don't worry too much. Since you realized the mistake and stopped working after just a few days, this might not heavily impact your F-1 visa status. The fact that you weren't paid and it was only for orientation further minimizes any potential issues.

However, it's important to be cautious going forward. Any unauthorized work can have serious consequences for your visa status, so make sure you apply for CPT or any other necessary authorizations before starting any job in the future.

It might be a good idea to reach out to your Designated School Official (DSO) to explain what happened and get their advice. They can guide you on any steps you should take to ensure everything is in order with your visa status.