Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is an internship that carries academic credit and is part of your major. Work experience is an integral part of your major or field of study. To be eligible for CPT, you must:

Procedure

• Provide two papers to the International Students Office:
  • One from the prospective employer or paid internship, stating the work responsibilities, dates, and location on the company’s letterhead
  • Another letter from the student’s program director or undergraduate student advisor, stating the work is related to the student’s major area of study.
• If your internship is not paid, you just need the form from your program director or department advisor.
• Visit the International Students Office and get permission from the department.

NOTE: An F-1 student who engages in full-time CPT for 12 months or more will not be eligible for Optional Practical Training upon graduation.

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Optional Practical Training (OPT)

OPT allows F-1 students to work on a full-time basis for one year after they have completed their studies in a field related to their major. Although you can apply for OPT before you complete your major, you can begin work only after you have graduated and have received your EAD (Employment Authorization Document). When you are ready to apply for OPT, contact your International Student Advisor. You must apply for OPT before you complete your program.

Eligibility:

When to apply

Students may apply for OPT as early as 90 days before the date of program completion OR within 60 days after the date of program completion. In order to avoid complications, we strongly recommend students apply before completing their degree.

Applying for OPT