Curricular Practical Training

As stated on the application, we need at least one week to review and process your CPT request. Please plan accordingly and read the application thoroughly.

Overview and Application Instructions

Curricular Practical Training Program is an integral part of an established curriculum. Curricular practical training is defined as alternate work/study, internship, cooperative education, or any other type of required internship or practicum, which is offered by sponsoring employer through cooperative agreements with the school.

A student who has been in F-1 status for one full academic year (fall and spring semesters) and who is in good academic standing is eligible to work off-campus in a position that is an integral part of the students curriculum. Authorization for such employment may only be obtained by a student who will receive academic credit for their employment experience. CPT is not meant to be a convenience employment opportunity nor is it meant to be a device to save Optional Practical Training (the other type of practical training).

Students applying for CPT must register for the course awarding academic credit for the proposed CPT employment.

There are two types of Curricular Practical Training:

1. Required - Part of the students program of study (program requires employment in the field of study to graduate)
2. Optional part of the program of study, such as:

• Employment as part of a regular course for which the student is registered
• Employment that is necessary to collect data for dissertation or thesis
• Employment is a cooperative education position.

Students in CPT can work up to 20 hours per week during the spring and fall term and full time during the summer term. CPT in the spring and fall terms affects students eligibility for on-campus employment. Please make sure to discuss this with the international student advisor.

Please submit the Request for Curricular Training and the forms listed below to the Office of International Student and Scholar Services:

• Employment Offer Letter
• Learning Objective Contract (from department)
• All your I-20s
• Copy of your most recent I-94
• Unofficial copy of your transcript
• Copy of your class schedule for the term you are requesting CPT

DO NOT SEND FILES VIA A CLOUD SERVICE, such as Sharepoint, Google Drive, etc. 

We need two weeks to process your work authorization. Please plan accordingly.

We will authorize you to work for a specific employer and for specific dates. Any changes in employment conditions, such as early termination, change in number of hours per week, MUST be communicated to the International Student Advisor.

Important note: You cannot begin CPT employment until you receive written authorization on a new Form I-20 (see p.3).