Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is an employment option available to students with an F-1 visa where the practical training employment is considered to be an integral part of the curriculum or academic program. This employment may be an internship, cooperative education job, practicum, or any other work experience that is either required for a degree (as defined in the course catalog) or for which academic credit is awarded.
To be eligible for CPT, students must have been in legal student status for nine (9) consecutive months, the employment must be an integral part of their degree program or requirement for a course, and the job offer must be related to their major or field of study. Also, there must be documentation that the proposed employment meets conditions set by OISS.
More information about CPT is available on the website of the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS).