Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT is alternate work/study, internship, cooperative education, clerkship, or optional/required internship or practicum, available only while the student is in F-1 status, before completion of the educational objective. There are two CPT options: full-time (over 20 hours) and part-time (20 hours or less). Full-time CPT of one year (365 days) or more will cause you to become ineligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT); part-time CPT does not affect OPT eligibility. Please note that this includes any full-time internships or clerkships that are required by your program. Check your program requirements carefully prior to engaging in optional internships.

CPT Eligibility Requirements

• Must have been enrolled full-time for at least one full academic year (fall and spring semesters).
• Employment must be integral or relevant to your established curriculum.
• Training that is required of all students or optional for your degree or track.
• Register for the appropriate credits before applying for CPT; if you cannot receive course/research credits for the work experience, you cannot be authorized for CPT. See Registration Requirements below.
• Your International Student Advisor (ISA) will process your application for CPT. If approved, you will be issued a new I-20 that shows the CPT employment authorization on the third page. Your CPT is authorized for a specific employer, location and length of time. You may only work on CPT for the employer and length of time authorized on your I-20.

CPT Registration Requirements

Registration requirements are indicated in the chart below. If engaging in part-time CPT in the fall and spring semesters, you must register for a full course load. If engaging in full-time CPT in the fall and spring semesters, you are limited to a maximum number of credits.

How to apply for CPT

You should make an appointment to meet with your ISA at the International Center prior to engaging in the internship, clerkship, or practicum. Please bring the following documents with you for your appointment:

• CPT Application Form
• CPT Department Recommendation Form
• Intership Offer Letter - An offer letter from the prospective employer on the employer's letterhead. The offer letter should provide the EXACT PHYSICAL ADDRESS (Street, Suite # if any, City, State, and Postal Code) of the internship, the duration of the internship including the start and end dates, and a general description of duties

You may begin CPT only after receiving your new I-20 with the CPT Employment Authorization from your ISA. If all documents are in order and registration for CPT is completed, the CPT will be authorized during your appointment. No additional employment authorization is required from United States Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) for CPT. If you have any questions regarding any type of practical training, please contact your ISA. For more information, please visit:

• Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Presentation

Forms

• CPT Application Form
• CPT Department Recommendation Form