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Curricular Practical Training
Description
CPT is defined by federal regulations as “an integral part of an established curriculum” related to your program of study. This can be in the form of an internship, practicum, or in the case of graduate and doctoral students, thesis and dissertation courses taken for course credit.
Part-Time CPT (Employment for 20 hours or less per week while you are also enrolled for classes) There is no limitation on the length of time you may participate in part-time curricular practical training, but you must be enrolled in school during your training in order to maintain lawful F-1 status.
Full-Time CPT (Employment for more than 20 hours per week)
While in full-time training, you need not be enrolled for classes in order to maintain lawful F-1 status. There is no limitation upon the length of time you may participate in full-time curricular practical training, but if you participate for twelve months or more you will not be eligible for optional practical training.
Eligibility
Unless you are a graduate student who must participate in a required internship to satisfy degree requirement, you are not eligible to engage in curricular practical training until you have been in the U.S. in lawful F-1 student status for one academic year. Graduate students whose degree programs require immediate participation in curricular practical training may apply for it at any time. You cannot participate in CPT after completion of studies. Once your program of study is completed all CPT must cease.
for more information on CPT, the following links include both information and application forms for CPT:
- For Computer Science major students: Completed CS CPT Certification Form (download)
- All other majors: Completed CPT Certification Form (download)