CPT is a type of employment authorization for F-1 students. CPT may only be granted if the student's employment (internship) is fulfilling a mandatory requirement for their degree. 

CPT is for work in connection with an academic program that requires employer supervision and mentorship. Therefore, a student utilizing CPT should not be a 1099 independent contractor.

If a student wants to work as 1099 contractor they will need pre-completion OPT (OPT done prior to program completion). This can be for part-time (up to 20 hours per week) or full-time (21 hours or more per week). Please note that time used for pre-completion OPT, is deducted from the time allowed for post-completion OPT so the student will need to be aware that they may be limiting their employment/immigration options post graduation.

Start by talking to your academic advisor to make sure you have a  requirement for your degree. Once you have the approval from your advisor, a CPT cooperative  agreement and a job offer, apply for CPT here.

Not every F-1 student may be eligible to apply for CPT. If the employment does not fulfill a requirement of the academic program, the student may apply for pre-completion OPT (optional practical training) instead.