CPT

Your Ultimate F-1 Student Guide to Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Navigating work authorization as an international student can be confusing, but Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is your key to gaining real-world experience while you study. CPT is essentially off-campus employment authorization that is required by, or an integral part of, your academic curriculum.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about CPT in a simple, student-friendly format to help you stay compliant and launch your career!

What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?

CPT is a temporary work authorization for F-1 international students to participate in practical training—like an internship or co-op—that is directly related to your major.
The most important rule? CPT is an academic authorization to work. It must be part of your degree program, not just a job you want to take.

Two Main Types of CPT

Feature	Internship CPT	Co-op CPT
Purpose	Short-term practical experience, often during the summer or one academic term.	Structured, alternating periods of full-time work and study, as required by your program.
Duration	Usually one semester or summer.	May span multiple semesters or terms.
Compensation	May be paid or unpaid.	Usually paid.

Are You Eligible for CPT?

To qualify for CPT, you must meet all the following requirements:

• F-1 Status: You must be in valid F-1 status and have an active SEVIS record.
• Academic Standing: You must be making normal progress toward your degree and be in good academic standing.
• The One-Year Rule: You must have been enrolled full-time for at least one full academic year (two full semesters) on the same SEVIS ID.
  • Exception: Some graduate programs that require immediate practical training for all students may allow CPT sooner.
• Job Offer: You must have a secured job or internship offer directly related to your major before applying.
• CPT Course/Credit: Your practical training must be tied to a specific course, internship credit, or curricular requirement.

The Step-by-Step CPT Application Process

Your DSO's approval is essential. You must always get CPT authorization before you begin work—even unpaid work.

1. Secure an Offer: Get a job offer related to your field of study.
2. Enroll in CPT Course: Register for the required internship, practicum, or co-op course/credit for the term you will work.
3. Complete the CPT Request: Submit the CPT Request Form to your International Student Services (ISS) Office.
4. Receive Your New I-20: Your DSO will review and approve your request in SEVIS. You will receive a new Form I-20 with the CPT authorization printed on page 2.
5. Start Working! You can ONLY start working on or after the start date listed on your CPT I-20.

Required Document: Your Job Offer Letter

Your employer's official offer letter is crucial. It must contain the following information:

• Your name
• Job title
• Detailed job description (how the work relates to your degree)
• Exact physical address of the worksite (or state that it is remote)
• Start and end dates of employment
• Confirmation of whether the position is part-time (less than 20 hours/week) or full-time (more than 20 hours/week).

Status	Item
Pre-Start	Eligible? (Met the one-year rule)
Pre-Start	Offer Letter $\checkmark$ (Meets all requirements)
Pre-Start	CPT Course $\checkmark$ (Enrolled for the term)
Pre-Start	New I-20 $\checkmark$ (Received your new I-20 with CPT approval)
Working	Start On/After Start Date $\checkmark$ (NEVER before!)
Working	Stay Enrolled $\checkmark$ (Maintain full-time student status during the academic term)
Working	Track Hours $\checkmark$ (Ensure you don't exceed your authorized limit)