How to apply for CPT
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, directly related to their major area of study, and required for all students in the same program. 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.” For ease of reference, these experiences will be referred to as “employment”.
CPT authorization is required for all off-campus 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 from a Designated School Official (DSO) 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).
Eligibility to Apply for CPT
CPT authorization enables eligible F-1 students to gain professional experience directly related to their major field of study.
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 and be enrolled in an academic program where employment is an integral part of the established curriculum.
Employment Permitted with CPT Authorization
Key requirements:
- Student must declare majors before requesting CPT.
- Employment must be related to the student’s major.
- Employment must be integral part of an established curriculum, as decided by the DSO.
- 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 CMC’s Washington D.C. Program.
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.
Internship Course Registration for CPT
All CPT opportunities 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
- Declare a major(s) prior to requesting CPT
- Ensure that you declare a major(s) in the student portal.
- Complete the Cooperative Agreement with the employer. The DSO will provide this form to you.
- Submit the Internship Registration Form to the Office of the Registrar to register for an internship course
- Visit the Office of the Registrar’s website for more information about Internship Courses and understand which internship course is suitable for you.
- You must register for an internship course at CMC for the academic term, including summer, during which you plan to complete your CPT employment.
- CPT is only permitted when it is an integral part of your academic program, which is why course enrollment is required.
- Complete the CPT request form in the International Student Portal, including uploading your Cooperative Agreement.
- The employment dates in your offer letter must exactly match those in your CPT request form.
Once your internship registration and CPT requests are submitted, the ISS office will review your documentation and notify you of your CPT authorization status after your internship credit has officially been approved and registered.
Important: You must wait to begin your employment until you have received your Form 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 must be approved on a semester-by-semester basis. You must submit a new CPT request for each term, including winter and summer breaks, 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) by reporting to your DSO. However, changing from part-time to full-time (or vice versa) requires a new CPT authorization.