Curricular Practical Training

F-1 regulations define Curricular Practical Training (CPT) as "alternate work/study, internship, cooperative education, or any other type of required internship or practicum that is offered by a sponsoring employers through cooperative agreements with the university."

CPT Policy Update (August 2026): DHS issued new guidance that increases oversight of Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and reinforces stricter requirements for demonstrating that CPT is an integral part of an established curriculum, and is required for all students participating in that curriculum, in order to satisfy degree and graduation requirements.

Due to this DHS guidance, ISSS will implement new approval processes for CPT.

CPT Application form

CPT Employer form

Am I eligible for CPT?

If you are currently in F-1 status and have, at a minimum, been enrolled as a full-time student for at least 1 academic year previous to the request, you may be eligible for CPT. Graduate students in programs that require immediate participation in a work experience program are exempt from the academic year full-time enrollment requirement. Students not pursuing a formal degree program (e.g., ELP and Exchange Students) are ineligible for CPT.

If a student has an experiential learning opportunity related to their program but it is not a required component of a course or degree requirement, Optional Practical Training (OPT) may be an option, please discuss with your international student advisor.

What are my options for CPT?

Curricular Practical Training is an internship or practicum that all students must complete to meet degree requirements.

Part-time VS full-time work authorization hours:

The number of hours you are permitted to work would be determined by the requirement of the program.

If you are planning to work on-campus at the same time you are authorized for CPT, please consult with an International Student Advisor.

How do I apply?

How long am I authorized for CPT?

Because of its unique relationship with the curriculum, there is no limit to the total (aggregate) time CPT may be authorized. However, CPT authorization is processed on a semester by semester basis.

The semester length of time CPT may be authorized is determined by the curriculum requirements. Under no circumstances can the employment begin prior to formal approval from ISSS as notated on page 2 of your Form I-20. Additionally, employment must not extend beyond the authorized CPT end date.

If I participate in Curricular Practical Training (CPT), will I lose my opportunity for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after I graduate?