Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
Note
(AUTHORIZATION IS NOT GUARANTEED)
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is defined to be an alternative work/study, internship, cooperative education, or any other type of required internship or practicum that is offered by sponsoring employers through cooperative agreements with the school. This training must be an integral part of an establish curriculum. (8 CFR 214.2 (f) (10) (i))
Temporary Employment Authorization (off campus) is issued by the Office of International Programs to work off-campus where you receive any form of payment/compensation and/or course credit for the experience.
Training that is designed to:
- ACHIEVE AN ACADEMIC OBJECTIVE and to
- FULFILL AN ACADEMIC REQUIREMENT for your program (must be a part of your degree program!)
When should I file for CPT?
Students must begin this process a semester before the semester they actually want to do an Internship/CPT. This will allow time for students to discuss their degree plans with the Academic Advisor, meet with the International Student Advisor, research internship opportunities, career preparation for internship, finding an internship, and enrolling in an internship class.
Usually, the last day to enroll in your internship class will be the same as the last day to add classes for the semester based on the academic calendar.
Procedures
Attend a CPT Workshop hosted by the Office of International Programs
OR
Schedule an appointment with the International Student Advisor to discuss CPT and
eligibility:
Schedule Your Appointment Here!
Students may meet with the International Student Advisor after the workshop for any clarification before beginning the CPT process.
Determine if you need an internship for credit.
- Look at the degree catalog, plan of study, or degree plan.
- Your academic advisor may need to assist with this step.
Discuss Internship Opportunities with Academic Advisor and/or Department Chair.
- If eligible for CPT, make sure all approvals are ensured through your academic program/major.
Research internship opportunities and use career readiness/service resources offered on campus.
Secure an internship and apply for a Social Security Number if needed. All students doing CPT must have a SSN card. If you have never had one, you will need to apply for one once you have an internship offer.
If you already have a SSN card, you may skip this step.
Meet with your academic advisor and enroll in your internship class (when enrollment is open for the following semester).
Students must enroll in their internship course BEFORE the semester they are beginning CPT.
After enrollment, complete the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Request Form (print and complete the Google Doc and email to oip@nsuok.edu).
- Fill out the CPT Request Form and provide the required documentation regarding the employer.
- CPT Request form and all documentation must be turned in to the Office of International Programs.
Once turned in, the International Student Advisor will update your I-20 with CPT Authorization.
- This process can take up to 5 business days.
Pick up your new I-20 at the Office of International Programs.
Begin your internship on proper start date listed on your I-20.
- Start and End dates for CPT will be on page 2 of your I-20
- NOTE: Students CANNOT work earlier than the listed I-20 start date and CANNOT work later than the listed I-20 end date
- If you need an extension on your CPT, students must visit the International Student Advisor to discuss eligibility