CPT (Curricular Practical Training)

CURRICULAR PRACTICAL TRAINING (CPT) is a part-time, paid or unpaid, internship opportunity for eligible F-1 International Students in which they are permitted by the USCIS to gain practical training in a field directly related to their degree.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a type of work-authorization used for F-1 students to complete off-campus training experiences. The primary purpose of CPT is to gain practical experience in the student’s field of study. The training experience must be an integral part of an established curriculum and directly related to the student’s major area of study.

Since CPT is curricular in nature, the student must also enroll for a course that requires an off-campus training experience. CPT is not possible for all F-1 students because it is dependent on the academic requirements of a specific

To be eligible for CPT authorization you must meet the following requirements:

  • Must complete 3 full academic quarters at Stanton University.
  • Be in good academic standing (no academic probation) from previous quarters.
  • Be in good financial standing (no unpaid tuition debt) from previous quarters.

CPT authorization is quarter specific. There are four quarters during which one may apply for CPT: Fall, Winter, Spring or Summer. 

  • CPT experiences must be directly linked to a specific course
  • CPT cannot extend beyond the last day of exams for the quarter in which the authorization is granted.

CPT Application Deadlines

The deadline for all CPT applications is the final course add and drop date for each quarter. See the university’s academic calendar for details.

Once your documents have been received, the processing time for all applications is 3 to 5 business days. You will be notified once the process is complete.

Instructions:
Please first review the document CPT Guidelines, which describes the process and answers frequently asked questions.

If you like to have a career consultation, please contact Mr. Tim Trieu at ttrieu@stanton.edu

If you have completed the CPT paperwork or have any additional questions about CPT, please contact Ms. Lisa Nguyen at l.nguyen@stanton.edu

Can I work full-time (more than 20 hours per week)?

No. You are only allowed to work part-time (20 hours or less).

Can I continue at the same job for subsequent CPT’s?

Yes. However, you need to re-apply every quarter, remain eligible, and receive approval. You will fill out the CPT Renewal Form.

Can I begin working before I receive approval?

No. You must receive approval and a new I-20 for each specific CPT employment.

What is the CPT Internship Course?

It is an online course with your program director. The purpose of this course is to integrate your work experience and your course learning with a meaningful assignment.

Will the CPT Internship Course count towards academic credit?

Yes. Each of the CPT Internship courses will count towards 1 unit but it does not count towards your degree.

Is there a fee for CPT?

Yes. There is a one-time CPT fee of $100 for first time applicants for each degree level

In addition, the CPT course is the cost of one (1) unit per quarter.

  • BBA, PGM, and KCA: $120
  • MBA: $200

When is the CPT Internship fee due?

You must pay for your CPT Internship course by the first day of the start of the quarter that you applied.

How do I get my Social Security card?

After you have been approved for CPT, take the following items to the Social Security Administration Office to apply:

  • Your new I-20 along with your Job Offer Letter
  • Passport
  • Visa
  • I-94
  • CPT Social Security recommendation letter from the International student advisor

What happens if I fail my CPT Internship course?

You will be ineligible for CPT for the next quarter. You can re-apply the following quarter after that and receive approval as long as you are eligible.

  • Example: If you fail Winter CPT Internship Course, you will not be eligible to apply for the Spring quarter. However, you may re-apply during the Summer quarter

Student Resources on Canvas is only available for current students. If you have trouble accessing this resource, please email studentaffairs@stanton.edu