Updated November 9, 2026

Curricular Practical Training, or CPT, is a type of authorization for experiential activities that are considered “integral" to the “established curriculum” of a student's program, and directly related to the student's major field of study. In August 2026, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program clarified that “integral to an established curriculum” means:

• The experience must be required of all students in the program
• The experience is required for degree completion, i.e., graduation 

Based on SEVP's policy guidance, ISSS is currently granting CPT only for those programs that incorporate a mandatory internship or practicum requirement necessary for graduation. Students seeking work authorization for optional internships or elective tracks should consider other options, such as pre-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Curricular Practical Training is always done prior to degree completion. Once you have completed the requirements needed to graduate, CPT is no longer available.

CPT is divided into part-time versus full-time CPT.

Please note that if you are authorized for twelve (12) months or more of full-time CPT, you will lose your eligibility for OPT. Part-time CPT in any amount does not impact the amount of OPT eligibility you may have.