Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

  • F-1 authorization for paid and unpaid positions with non-Georgetown organizations during program of study.
  • CPT must be directly related to the student’s major field of study and integral to the program’s established curriculum.
  • CPT authorizes a variety of roles, including employment, internships, fellowships, practicums, etc.  
  • Students become eligible after two semesters of full-time study unless program’s curriculum requires earlier training.
  • Withdrawal from internship course voids CPT authorization. Elective internship course cannot be student’s only course in final term.
  • Email complete CPT request to internationalservices@georgetown.edu. New Form I-20 reflecting authorization will be issued in accordance with OGS processing times.

1. Determine CPT Eligibility

Check how your program’s curriculum incorporates practical training experience: CPT Eligible Course List. Undergraduate students must have declared major as part of CPT eligibility.

Complete the Canvas CPT Module and download your 100% CPT Quiz as proof you understand the conditions of this F-1 authorization.

2. Employer Offer Letter

Organization must confirm details in writing:

  • Position title and description of activities for role
  • Supervisor name, title, and email address
  • Organization street address, even if role is remote
  • Number of hours per week: During required academic terms, may not exceed 20 hours in any week totaling all roles, paid or unpaid and on or off campus.
  • Position start and end date: Credit-based CPT must align with academic calendar.
  • Sample Offer Letter (PDF)

3. CPT Request Form

Student completes first page, academic program completes second page: CPT Request Form (PDF)

4. Email Complete CPT Request to OGS

Attach these files to internationalservices@georgetown.edu. Do not begin any activities for the role until you receive updated Form I-20 (by email) notated on page 2 for CPT.

Incomplete requests delay authorization. Please review OGS processing times.

5. Need More CPT?

If your current CPT employer has offered you a brief extension of your role, please complete the CPT Extension Request Form (PDF) and email it along with documentation from your employer of your proposed new CPT end date (i.e., email or updated offer letter) to internationalservices@georgetown.edu to request an extension of your CPT authorization. Requests for extensions must be submitted with enough time for OGS’s current processing time to occur before your existing CPT end date.

If your current CPT employer has offered you a role during an additional term, you must submit a new, complete CPT application (see above). The job description in your new offer letter must indicate that you are assuming more sophisticated responsibilities and developing new skills. You must pause your employment between your current CPT end date and your future CPT start date.