CPT Authorization Request

What Is It?

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a temporary work authorization that allows eligible F-1 international students to participate in practical training directly related to their major and required as an integral part of their established academic curriculum.

Under the updated CPT guidelines, practical training must be mandatory for all students in the academic program and necessary to complete the degree or certificate. Optional internships or elective courses do not qualify for CPT authorization.

Use this service to request CPT authorization for required practical training before beginning employment. CPT must be authorized by International Student Services (ISS) and reflected on your Form I-20 before employment begins.

Typical processing time: 6–10 business days.

Who or What is Eligible?

You may be eligible for CPT if you:

  • Are maintaining valid F-1 student status.

  • Have completed at least one academic year (9 months) of full-time study.

  • Have earned at least 24 credits toward your degree.

  • Have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.

  • Have received a job offer directly related to your major.

  • Are enrolled, or will be enrolled, in a practical training course that is required for all students in your academic program and necessary for graduation.

  • Have confirmation from your Academic Advisor that the practical training is an integral and mandatory part of your established curriculum.

 

Important: An optional internship or elective course does not qualify for CPT authorization, even if academic credit is awarded.

International Student Services will review all eligibility requirements before approving CPT authorization.

How Do I Make a Request or Report an Issue?

Before submitting your CPT request, you must:

  1. Confirm with your Academic Advisor that the practical training is required for all students in your program and necessary for graduation.

  2. Obtain a Job Offer Letter from your employer.

  3. Complete the CPT Employment Verification Form with your employer.

  4. Obtain a completed and signed Academic Advisor Verification Form confirming that the practical training meets the program's mandatory curriculum requirements.

  5. Enroll in the required practical training course with assistance from your Academic Advisor.

  6. Upload all required documents when submitting this request.

 

After your request is submitted, ISS will review your eligibility and supporting documentation. If approved by the appropriate Designated School Official (DSO), CPT authorization will be entered into your SEVIS record and an updated Form I-20 will be issued.

Do not begin employment until you have received your updated Form I-20 showing CPT authorization.

Required Documents:

  • Job Offer Letter (PDF)
  • CPT Employment Verification Form signed by the employer
  • Academic Advisor Verification Form signed by the Academic Advisor

When Not to Use These Services

Do not use this service if:

  • Your internship or practical training is optional or is not required for graduation.

  • You are requesting CPT solely because an internship or elective course offers academic credit.

  • You have not yet received a job offer.

  • The employment is not directly related to your major.

  • You plan to begin working before receiving CPT authorization.

  • You are requesting Optional Practical Training (OPT).

  • You are requesting On-Campus Employment authorization.

Working without proper CPT authorization may result in a violation of your F-1 student status.