Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
CPT for Spring 2020
Beginning Friday, November 8, eligible F-1 students planning to work off-campus in the United States during Spring 2020 may submit their CPT application by email to their dedicated IS Advisor. CPT applications will not be accepted before November 8. Your new Form I-20 will be issued within 3-5 business days following the submission of a complete Request Form, I-94 Record, Offer Letter, and CPT Quiz results.
Quick Information & Links
Basics: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is an F-1 off-campus authorization for paid and unpaid positions directly related to the major field of study listed on Page 1 of the Form I-20. CPT can be used to authorize a variety of positions, including employment, internships, fellowships, practicums, etc.
Context: U.S. federal regulations grant universities the authority to issue CPT for opportunities that are integral to the curriculum of a degree program. CPT is unique among U.S. work authorizations for foreign citizens because it does not require an application to USCIS. This makes CPT a natural target for scrutiny by immigration authorities. Perceived abuse of CPT could jeopardize access to future immigration benefits.
Conditions: Unless required by the academic curriculum, CPT cannot be used during the first two semesters of F-1 study. F-1 Students may not exceed three CPT authorizations during a degree program. Withdrawal from an internship course voids CPT authorization, and students who fail an internship course must contact their IS Advisor immediately. A CPT eligible course cannot be the only course in the final term of study with limited exceptions (see the CPT Eligible Course list). Undergraduate students must have declared a major before becoming eligible for CPT.
Procedures: Apply by email to your dedicated IS Advisor. A new Form I-20 reflecting authorization will be issued within 3-5 business days following the submission of a complete application.