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Curricular Practical Training
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a type of off-campus work authorization for F-1 international students pursuing studying in the U.S. and wanting to gain practical experience directly related their fields of study. CPT must be completed before finishing your degree and requires prior approval from Immigration Services.
Do not begin employment until your CPT is officially approved. Working without authorization is a violation of F-1 status.
General Eligibility
You may qualify for CPT if:
- You’re enrolled full-time in valid F-1 status for at least one academic year.
- The position is an integral part of your degree program.
- You will earn academic credit through a required course, elective internship course, or thesis/dissertation research.
- You are participating in the Co-op or Internship Program through the Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD).
CPT Application Process
Step 1: Review the General Eligibility section above before seeking internship opportunities. If you have any questions regarding the CPT process or policies, consult with Immigration Services.
Step 2: Secure your internship offer and complete Section I of the CPT Recommendation Form.
Step 3: Meet with your academic advisor to confirm the internship fits your degree requirements and is feasible with your course load. Your academic advisor must complete and sign Section II of the CPT Recommendation Form.
Step 4: Enroll in the appropriate course connected to the practical training opportunity:
- For a degree-required internship course, you must enroll in the designated internship course.
- For a specific research-based internship, you must register for thesis or dissertation credits.
- For an elective internship course for which you will receive credit, you may enroll if available through your department.
- If your CPT opportunity does not align with one of the options above, you must complete the following steps:
- Meet with CCPD to enroll in INT 8010 or COOP 6010/6020. Make sure to bring a copy of your practical training opportunity offer letter.
- Complete Section III of the CPT Recommendation Form and have it signed by your advisor.
Step 5: Complete the CPT Request E-Form in the Sunapsis iStart Portal and upload all required documents. You will receive an email once your CPT authorization has been reviewed, requesting further documentation or confirming that your CPT authorization has been approved or denied.
Please note that you cannot begin your practical training experience until the CPT request is approved and the dates listed on the CPT authorization are on your updated I-20.
Step 6: Begin your training after the CPT approval and the authorized start date listed on your updated I-20. Your training is part of your full-time enrollment and must be completed as approved. If you do not attend your practical training placement, your SEVIS record will be terminated for failure to maintain student status.
CPT Advising
If you have questions after reviewing the CPT guidance, you can join one of our CPT Zoom Advising Sessions or contact Immigration Services for guidance.
