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Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is employment that is an integral part of an established curriculum, including: alternate work/study, internship, cooperative education, or any other type of required internship or practicum which is offered by sponsoring employers through cooperative agreements with the school. CPT is available only prior to the completion of your degree program and you must have a job offer at the time of application. CPT employment may not delay completion of the academic program.

Eligibility Criteria:

To be eligible for CPT, you must:

How to apply for CPT:

Please allow at least 2 weeks prior to the anticipated start date of employment to start the process.

Step 1: Meet with your academic advisor to inquire about your academic eligibility.

Step 2: Once you have successfully interviewed, request a job offer letter from the employer (on company letterhead). The letter should include:

Step 3: Have your academic adviser send an email to International Student Affairs recommending you for the internship and indicating how the internship will be evaluated academically (e.g., as part of a course, degree requirement, etc.).

Step 4: If your application is approved, International Student Affairs will issue you a new I-20 with the CPT authorization noted on page 3. The authorization will include the name and address of employment and the inclusive dates and serves, along with your passport and I-94, as authorization to work in the U.S. only in that location.  You may not begin employment until you receive this authorization (i.e. CPT I-20). As a reminder, you should keep all the I-20s you are issued.

Step 5: Apply for a social security number, if you do not yet have one.

Notes: