F-1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
After reviewing August 2026, guidance from Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), Penn State has updated its CPT policy and is currently pausing optional CPT approvals while our processes are being updated.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a required part of an established curriculum and available to F-1 students before they finish their degree.
Eligibility Requirements
- Lawful, full-time enrollment for one academic year
However, this rule might be waived for some graduate students if their program requires practical training or work earlier. - CPT must occur before the program end date on your I-20.
- Training/internship can be paid or unpaid and must:
- Be required by your academic program as clearly indicated in the Penn State Bulletin:
The off-campus experiential learning opportunity (internship, externship, or practicum) is a required component of the degree for all students in the program and the degree cannot be completed without it. - Be closely related to your major of study; and
- Happen before you complete all your coursework.
Note: Be sure to check in with your international student adviser to see if your unpaid training/internship requires CPT authorization or would meet the volunteer requirements.
- Be required by your academic program as clearly indicated in the Penn State Bulletin:
- CPT requires a signed cooperative agreement or a letter from your employer.
- CPT is only authorized for one semester at a time, and a new CPT form must be completed in iStart for each semester.
Eligibility Requirements
- Lawful, full-time enrollment for one academic year
However, this rule might be waived for some graduate students if their program requires practical training or work earlier. - CPT must occur before the program end date on your I-20.
- Training/internship can be paid or unpaid and must:
- Be required by your academic program as clearly indicated in the Penn State Bulletin:
The off-campus experiential learning opportunity (internship, externship, or practicum) is a required component of the degree for all students in the program and the degree cannot be completed without it. - Be closely related to your major of study; and
- Happen before you complete all your coursework.
Note: Be sure to check in with your international student adviser to see if your unpaid training/internship requires CPT authorization or would meet the volunteer requirements.
- Be required by your academic program as clearly indicated in the Penn State Bulletin:
- CPT requires a signed cooperative agreement or a letter from your employer.
- CPT is only authorized for one semester at a time, and a new CPT form must be completed in iStart for each semester.
