Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is employment which is an integral part of an established curriculum. CPT is available to F-1 students who have been lawfully enrolled on a full time basis for at least nine consecutive months.
There are two categories of CPT:
- Required part of the degree program. If the academic program requires employment in the field of study to graduate, the student may participate in CPT as long as he/she meets the other requirements of lawful status. If the employment is required, CPT need not be credit bearing.
- Optional part of the degree program. Credit-bearing training opportunities that are an important part of the program of study may be used for CPT.
Student Eligibility:
- Have maintained legal F-1 status for at least 9 consecutive months (exception: if the graduate program requires training before completion of one academic year, consult the ISA office)
- Be enrolled in a course that carries academic credit (if not a requirement of the degree program)
- Hold a job/training offer related to your major area of study (CPT is contingent on a solid offer)
Application Process:
- Obtain a CIU CPT Application Form.
- Obtain an offer letter (see CPT - Employer Information)
- Obtain appropriate academic advisor signature, course instructor information, and course description, as required by the CIU CPT Application Form.
- Schedule an appointment with the International Student Advisor at least 3 weeks prior to your CPT start date.
- Do not begin training until you receive the new I-20 listing the CPT start and end dates, employer name and address. Note: EAD from immigration is not required.
CPT Hours & Limitations:
- CPT is approved for a specific employer, place of employment, and time period. You may not change employers.
- Part time CPT is authorized up to 20 hours per week
- Full time CPT is authorized for 20 hours per week or more
- If you are authorized for 12 months or more full time CPT, you will not be eligible for OPT