Curricular Practical Training- is only available to F-1 visa students who are and have been lawfully enrolled as a full-time student for at least nine consecutive months (The only exception is for graduate students who must begin a required practicum or internship immediately upon entering their Program of Study).

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) refers to employment that is related to your major field of study and is required as part of your degree program, or is necessary to fulfill a course requirement, or otherwise is an integral component of your curriculum for which academic credit is required.

CPT can be authorized for part-time employment (20 hours per week or less) or full-time employment (more than 20 hours per week). Students who accumulate one year or more of full-time CPT are not eligible for Optional Practical Training (a separate program), which is usually authorized after the completion of a degree program. Authorization for CPT must be renewed each semester you wish to continue employment.
For further details, please select CPT Procedures. (PDF)

Application Procedures - Students must present the following information to the International Programs Center one week prior to that start date of employment:

1. Complete the form Curricular Practical Training Approval Request Form. (PDF)

2. Job offer letter on letter letterhead (stationary format) including: Name of employer and physical location of employment, job title, confirmation of paid position, start and end date of Employment and number of hours of employment.

For further information, please make an appointment to speak with the International Student Advisor at the International Programs Center.

F-1 Curricular Practical Training Questions and Answers (PDF)

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