Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Curricular Practical Training is designed for students that require work experience in their field of study. This work authorization primarily takes the form of internships.

MAJOR STIPULATIONS FOR CPT

CPT is only available prior to students receiving their academic degree.

PRECONDITIONS

• Students must be a lawfully enrolled with an F-1 Visa.
• Students may request CPT after being lawfully enrolled in F-1 status for 9 months.
• A maximum of 12 months is allowed for full time work prior to the student’s degree completion (part-time work, 20 hours or less per week, is not limited to 12 months).
• CPT must be an integral part of the student’s established curriculum.
• CPT is permitted at a part-time level while school is in session. CPT may be done at a full-time level during all official school breaks such as Summer, Fall Break, Christmas break and Spring break. The only time CPT can be done at a full-time level while in school is in session is if the student obtains academic credit for the CPT.

PROCEDURES FOR CPT

Submit the following documents to the International Office for approval

• Academic Advisor Authorization that states CPT authorization is integral for the degree plan. The authorization must include whether it is an internship or practicum and what part of the student’s degree the work will benefit, including pertinent course numbers.
• College and Career Guidance Approval Form which is to be signed by Allison Jones, Director of College and Career Guidance Center, LRC 503.
• Employer Request Form stating that the student has already been hired for a position, the number of hours the student will be working per week, the employment start date and end date, and full job description with title and duties.

All three documents should be submitted to the DSO for review and decision of CPT authorization. If a decision to approve is made, the student will NOT receive an EAD (work authorization) card. However, the student will receive a new Form I-20 with CPT designation and date authorization on page 3.