What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a required academic experiential learning component of an established curriculum and directly related to the student's major area of study.

When am I eligible to be considered for CPT?

After successful completion of one academic year of full-time study (fall/spring or spring/fall) in your respective degree level, 18 credits for graduate students/24 credits for undergraduate students completed (independent of required pre-requisite courses). Students must also be in good academic standing. Students on warning, probation, or other negative academic standing may be denied CPT authorization. Please note, bachelors-to-masters students will not be eligible for masters-level CPT until they've completed 18 credits towards their graduate program AND have completed a full academic year in their graduate program after being issued a masters-level I-20.

Do I need a new Form I-20 before starting CPT?

Always! Please note that as an F-1 student, participating in any experiential learning (both paid and unpaid) without prior authorization from the International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO) is a serious violation of the F-1 immigration status.

What if the job is unpaid or is part of a required practicum, do I still need authorization?

Yes. All on-campus or off-campus training, field work, practicum, internship, co-op, paid or unpaid, is only permissible with prior authorization from the ISSO. Participating in experiential learning without prior authorization from the ISSO is a serious violation of the F-1 immigration status.

Do I have to register and earn credit for the experiential learning activity?

Always. Please contact your academic department for registration details.

How many credits do I have to register for CPT?

It varies, and depends on the type of CPT. Registration can range from 1-3 credits. This will be evaluated by your academic department at the time you are considered for CPT authorization.

How do I find information about internships or co-op programs?

Check the Career & Co-Op Center website for information on upcoming career fairs, Career Cafes, Drop-In Resume Makeovers, etc. Also, check with your Undergraduate or Graduate Academic Advisor for co-op programs specific to your department.

Can I work full-time on CPT during an academic semester?

Only if your department offers a full-time co-op option which would be available to all students in that academic program, as listed in the Course Catalog. Check with your Undergraduate or Graduate Academic Advisor to explore co-op opportunities within your program. All such programs have a selection process, with specific course sequencing and preparatory coursework.

Can I work full-time on CPT during a summer session?

Yes, in most cases, only with prior CPT authorization from the ISSO. Students who will be completing their program in the summer are not eligible, unless required by your specific academic program.

Can I engage in part-time on CPT during a regular semester?

Yes, but not in your last semester, and only with prior CPT authorization from the ISSO.

Can I do either part-time or full-time CPT in my last semester?

No, unless required by your academic program. However, you may be eligible to apply for Pre-Completion OPT.

Can I do either part-time or full-time CPT in my last semester?

Students with an assistantship are not permitted to engage in CPT while working on campus.