https://www.kysu.edu/academics/global-strategies-and-international-affairs/international-student-advising-and-transition-services/f-1-employment.php

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT is designed to fulfill the internship requirement of a course of study. It is intended to provide hands-on practical work experience for which the student receives class credit.

  • Students can work up to 20 hours per week during school and up to 40 hours per week during vacation.
  • Students must be in F-1 status for nine months before applying.
  • SEVIS authorization is required. Follow these steps in order to apply for CPT:
  • Complete a Request for Work Authorization form by stating internship course number and receiving a signature from your academic advisor.
  • Obtain a letter from the employer stating job title, dates of employment, number of hours per week, place of employment and a brief description of the work.
  • After submitting your documentation, a DSO, your international student advisor will update the report for your employment and issue you a new I-20.
  • Important: CPT must be reported by your international student advisor BEFORE you begin your internship.

For internship, students must obtain their department academic advisor or graduate coordinator's approval and confirm eligibility for CPT with a DSO.

Eligibility for CPT:

  • Must have been in valid F-1 visa status
  • Must have been enrolled full time at KSU for at least two semesters (one academic year)
  • Must be in a Major
  • Must have a job or internship offer (Don't start the job before having CPT approval; CPT authorization is specific to the training position)
  • The internship must be directly related to your field of study or an integrated part of the student's program or curriculum
  • The DSO must authorize CPT in SEVIS. The student will receive a special I-20 for the duration of each CPT experience.
  • The internship cannot be for more than 20 hours a week during regular semester (those students with a 50% assistantship will not be eligible for the internship)
  • Must apply for a SSN if the internship is a paid position.
  • Pre-major students are not eligible for CPT
  • CPT cannot be authorized based on a minor or certificate program