
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows students the chance to obtain off-campus, work (paid or unpaid) that is directly related to their field of study. It is generally approved as part-time work (20 hours or less per week) while school is in session. During vacation periods, it may be authorized for more than 20 hours per week.
Using full-time CPT for 12 months will forfeit all Optional Practical Training (OPT). Part-time CPT does not impact your OPT.
TYPES OF CPT
REQUIRED FOR YOUR ACADEMIC PROGRAM – Your academic program may require employment, practicum, OR internship experience in the field of study to graduate.
NON-REQUIRED INTERNSHIP, PRACTICUM, OR INTERNSHIP – Your academic program may provide an option to complete practical experience in the form of an internship, placement, independent study or practicum. For this type of CPT, the experience must be counted as academic credit and directly related to your field of study. You must be enrolled for the course while engaging in this type of CPT.
You should apply for CPT at least 3 weeks before the start of the academic term for which you are applying. Please see below for the 2016 deadlines
Academic Term Start Date (2016) |
CPT Application Deadline |
Spring Semester: January 20th, 2016 | Wednesday, December 30th, 2015 |
Spring Quarter: February 29th, 2016 | Monday, February 8th, 2016 |
Summer Quarter: May 23rd, 2016 | Monday, May 2nd, 2016 |
Summer Semester: May 23rd, 2016 | Monday, May 2nd, 2016 |
Fall Semester: September 7th, 2016 | Wednesday, August 17th, 2016 |
Fall Quarter: September 12th, 2016 | Monday, August 22nd, 2016 |
Winter Quarter: November 28th, 2016 | Monday, November 7th, 2016 |
PAID VS. UNPAID INTERNSHIPS As an F-1 student, you must obtain work authorization for any type of employment. Unpaid internships at “for profit” companies and organizations are considered work unless it meets the following standards from the Department of Labor
If your unpaid internship does not meet these standards, it is considered paid and must be authorized.
Undergraduate Students
Undergraduate F-1 international students interested in applying for CPT should connect with their PACT Mentor for assistance. You will need your PACT Mentor to work with the Office of Career and Professional Developement to apply for an academic internship.
Graduate Students
Graduate F-1 international students interested in applying for CPT should complete the CPT Information & Recommendation Form_.pdf. It will require review and signatures from your Academic Program Director and your internship supervisor. Once completed, return to International Student Services for final approval.
To be eligible for CPT, you must have
Have been lawfully enrolled as a full-time student in the U.S. for at least one academic year*
Be in lawful F-1 status at the time of applying for CPT, and
Have a job offer that is directly related to your program
*If your graduate program requires an internship or practicum right away, you are then eligible for CPT during your first academic year
Feel free to call or email the ISS Office at (914) 674-7284 or international@mercy.edu with questions regarding CPT.