Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
How to Apply for CPT
- View the CPT Presentation.
- Meet with graduate coordinator, academic advisor, or Center for Career &
- Professional Development advisor to discuss their requirements.
Obtain an internship/job offer letter (see section Job Offer Letter below for list of requirements and to view a sample letter). - Login to
- Start the CPT Application located under F-1 Practical Training - Apply. (Note: The CPT Application is only visible to current F-1 students).
- View the CPT “How to Apply for CPT” video.
- Pass the CPT quiz.
- Upload the CPT Job Offer Letter that meets all requirements.
- After OIS approves the letter, submit the Academic Validation E-Form.
- While filling out the Academic Validation E-Form, you will need to upload proof that your internship, practicum, field experience, etc. is an integral part of your curriculum. Each category of CPT requires a different type of proof Please review this document to see the examples of proof.
- Register for an appropriate CPT related course.
- Academic Advisor or Graduate Coordinator receives automatic email and confirms academic nature of work experience.
- When the CPT request is approved, a new I-20 with CPT authorization is produced. OIS will send an e-mail to the student's e-mail address with the CPT approved I-20 attached. (Note: OIS will process the CPT authorization within 10 business days after the academic department approves the CPT.)
- Receive e-mail from OIS and a new I-20 with CPT authorization.
- Start employment only after receiving the I-20 with CPT authorization and on or after the CPT start date listed on page two of your I-20.
Do NOT start your CPT until you have obtained the CPT I-20 from the Office of International Services and not before the CPT start date.
Please watch the following step-by-step video for applying for CPT.