1. Definition: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is am opportunity for international students in F-1 status to participate in professional, temporary employment such as an internship, co-op program, practicum, or similar situation, which is undertaken prior to the completion of studies. The training must either be a required part OR an integral part of the established curriculum and the student must receive academic credit for the employment. As an academic course, the period of employment should normally fall within the limits of a given academic term. Employment may be either full-time (over 20 hours a week) or part-time (20 hours or less a week). However, if 12 months of full-time CPT is used then no Optional Practical Training (OPT) is permitted at the degree level. part-time CPT or less than 12 months of full-time CPT will not impact the OPT period. Students participating in CPT during a fall or spring semester must continue to pursue a full course of study. Both failure to enroll in the specific course for which the CPT is approved and to complete the employment during the period of authorization will result in a violation of immigration status.

2. Eligibility: Students are eligible for Curricular Practical Training after they have completed two, full-time semesters (fall and spring) in valid F-1 status (including enrollong full-time each semester and possessing a valid I-20). Time spent on an approved full-time study abroad program may count toward the two-semester requirement as long as the student has completed one semester in the U.S. before studying abroad. However, students that have finished all course requirments except for thesis, dissertation or equivalent may only participate in CPT if the employment is necessary to obtain data from the employment that will be published in and significantly contribute to the these, dissertation or equivalent.

3. How to Apply: Visit the Office of International Student Services in Sheridan Hall 208 to pick up the CPT information and documents which will include the following

1. Work with your advisor in seaching for an internship or practicum.
2. Check with the International Office to see if you qualify for CPT.
2. Obtain USCIS Form I-538 from the International Office and complete the form.
3. Submit to the International Office the completed Form I-538 together with:

~A letter from the academic advisor or head of the department indicating the employment is required, or the employment will be credit bearing, and the employment is an integral part of the academic program. The letter should specify the number of hours being worked per week.
~Letter from the employer indicating the job title, dates of employment, and brief description of work.
~Current I-20AB Form
~Copy of passport page & I-94 card

4. Authorization: The International Student Advisor will evaluate your application. If approved, the International Student Advisor will recommend your CPT and make the appropriate notation on the Form I-20AB student copy . Based on the recommendation by the International Student Advisor, immigration will be notified on the authorized CPT recommendation. The endorsed I-20 is the official document authorizing the training employment.