Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Application Instructions
DescriptionAn F-1 student who has been in status for at least nine months and who is in good academic standing is eligible to work off-campus in a position which is an integral part of the student’s curriculum. This is called Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and must be authorized in advance by International Programs (IP). Authorization for such employment may only be obtained by a student who will receive academic credit for the employment experience. Therefore the student must register for a course that carries academic credit, that is listed in the regular bulletin of course offerings or be registered for a CO-OP course. To be considered for CPT, the work must not only be related to the major field of study but must also be an integral or important part of your curriculum or degree program. Obtaining work experience to get a better job after graduation does not merit CPT authorization. Students in the Intensive English Program (IEP) are not eligible for practical training.
Eligibility
- The student must be in valid F-1 status at the time of application and have been in full-time status for one academic year preceding the application. Graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship/practical training may apply at any time.
- Required part of the degree program - Proof of academic requirement must be submitted with the CPT application (Example: copy of undergraduate or graduate bulletin page listing the requirement)
OR
- Optional part of the degree program - student must first be enrolled in a credit bearing course prior to requesting CPT authorization. (Example: Internship, Directed Study)