What Is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a form of work authorization that allows F-1 international students to participate in off-campus employment when it is an integral part of their academic curriculum. According to SEVIS regulations [8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(i)], CPT includes “alternative work/study, internship, cooperative education, or any other type of required internship or practicum.”
CPT authorization is required for all off-campus internships or employment—whether paid or unpaid. It is specific to each employer and academic term, and students must receive an updated Form I-20 with CPT authorization before beginning work.
Important: Students who complete 12 months of full-time CPT (20 or more hours per week) become ineligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Employment Permitted with CPT Authorization
CPT authorization enables eligible F-1 students to gain professional experience directly related to their major field of study.
Key requirements:
Student must declare majors before requesting CPT
Employment must be related to the student’s major.
Employment may be paid or unpaid.
Employment must fall within the approved dates listed on the Form I-20.
While classes are in session, CPT is generally limited to 20 hours per week (part-time), except in specific programs such as the Silicon Valley and Washington, D.C. programs.
Eligibility to Apply for CPT
Students must meet the following requirements:
Have maintained valid F-1 status for at least one academic year at CMC.
Be in good academic standing.
Have received a job or internship offer directly related to their field of study.
Types of CPT
Part-Time CPT: Up to 20 hours per week (typically during the academic term).
Full-Time CPT: More than 20 hours per week (typically during academic breaks).
Each CPT authorization is employer- and term-specific and must appear on your Form I-20.
Note: Accumulating 12 months of full-time CPT will make you ineligible for OPT.
Internship Course Registration for CPT
CPT must be tied to academic coursework. Students must enroll in an approved internship course during the term they engage in CPT in order for the experience to be considered part of the curriculum. Approved CMC courses include:
INT 98, INT 99, INT 198, INT 199, INT 30, or GOV 30.
How to Obtain CPT Authorization at CMC
Obtain a job offer letter on the employer’s letterhead that includes the company name, and the employment start and end dates. It should also include a brief description of the position.
Register for an internship and be enrolled in one of the approved internship courses listed above.
Complete the CPT request form online, including uploading your job offer letter.
Note: The employment dates in your offer letter must exactly match those in your CPT request form.
Once your request is submitted, the ISS office will review your documentation and notify you of your CPT authorization status.
Important: you must begin your employment after receiving your I-20 with the CPT authorization from your DSO.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I extend my CPT or use it for multiple semesters?
Yes. CPT is approved on a semester-by-semester basis. You must submit a new CPT request for each term you wish to continue employment.
Do I need a Social Security Number (SSN)?
Yes. For paid employment, an SSN is required to receive payment from your employer. Click here " How to Apply for Social Security Number" section.
Can I change employers while on CPT?
No. CPT is employer-specific. You must submit a new CPT request and receive a new authorization before starting work with a different employer.
Can I change my work hours?
It depends. You may adjust your hours within the same CPT category (e.g., working 10–15 hours per week on part-time CPT). However, changing from part-time to full-time (or vice versa) requires a new CPT authorization.