Curricular Practical Training Academic Verification Packet printable pdf download

The University of Pittsburgh

Office of International Services

F‐1 Curricular Practical Training Academic Verification Packet

What is CPT?

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a type of employment authorization that may be used by F‐1

students to engage in temporary employment to gain practical experience in their field of study

prior to completion of their program of study. In order to qualify for CPT authorization, the

employment must be an integral part of an established curriculum and be directly related to the

student's field of study. Examples include co‐op programs, an internship or practicum (to fulfill a

degree requirement or for elective credit), or a graduate student engaging in research that is

contributing directly to a thesis or dissertation requirement.

CPT is approved as part‐time (20 hours/week or less) or full‐time (more than 20 hours/week) and

for a specific employer, place of employment, and time period. You must notify OIS of any changes

in your employment before such changes take effect, so that your CPT authorization can be

updated. CPT can only be granted for one semester at a time and you must be registered for the

internship or practicum class during the same semester in which CPT will be authorized.

How can I apply for CPT?

NOTE: Students must have completed at least two semesters of full‐time study before being eligible

for CPT authorization.

To apply for Curricular Practical Training, you must provide the following to the Office of

International Services (OIS) prior to the start of any employment:



The attached Curricular Practical Training Academic Verification Form signed by your

Academic Advisor indicating that the training is a degree requirement or credit‐bearing option.



An offer letter from your prospective employer stating the job duties and terms of employment.



Proof of enrollment for internship/practicum course (if applicable).

If this is your first time applying for CPT you must make an appointment with an OIS Immigration

Specialist to submit your application. These documents must be submitted and approved prior

to the start of any employment. In most cases your CPT will be authorized during your

appointment with your OIS Immigration Specialist. If you have any questions, please contact the

Immigration Specialist assigned to your school or department (see

us/staff/ for contact information).

Updated 06/07/2011

Curricular Practical Training Academic Verification Packet