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Curricular Practical Training

CPT Authorization

Office of International Services (OIS) staff are aware of the August 12, 2026, and August 24, 2026, broadcast messages from the Student and Exchange Visitor Program providing new guidance to Designated School Officials regarding Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization. We are reviewing the guidance and evaluating whether any changes to UMB’s CPT authorization procedures may be necessary.

Please continue to submit your CPT requests in Sunapsis, and we will reach out directly if we have additional questions. Processing timelines and requirements may be subject to change as OIS completes its review of the new guidance. Students with existing CPT authorization should continue to follow the terms of their approved authorization unless notified otherwise by OIS.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a type of work authorization that allows F-1 students to participate in training that is integrated in their academic program. CPT may be authorized when:

  • The training is required for all students in the program for degree completion, such as clinical rotations, field practicums, required internships; or
  • For thesis or dissertation students, the training is required to conduct research, access data, or complete work directly related to the student’s thesis or dissertation.

  • When Am I Eligible for CPT?

    Students must normally be enrolled full-time for at least one academic year before becoming eligible for CPT, except when the academic program requires immediate participation in off-campus experiential learning.

    CPT is generally authorized on a semester-by-semester basis and must correspond to enrollment in an appropriate internship, practicum, or other required academic course.

    Doctoral students who have completed all coursework and comprehensive exams and are "all but dissertation” may be authorized for CPT in increments of up to one year, provided they maintain full-time enrollment during the fall and spring semesters. CPT authorization may be renewed annually provided the student is maintaining F-1 status and continuing to make satisfactory academic progress.

  • Part-Time vs. Full-Time CPT

    Part-Time CPT: 20 hours per week or less

    Full-Time CPT: More than 20 hours per week

    CPT is generally limited to part-time employment while classes are in session. Full-time CPT may be authorized in limited circumstances, including:

    • During official university breaks, such as summer and winter break.
    • When a student's academic program requires a full-time internship, practicum, or training experience.
    • PhD students engaging in research that is directly related to their dissertation, if they have completed all required coursework and comprehensive exams, and are “all but dissertation.”

How Do I Apply for CPT?

  1. Consult your academic advisor to determine whether the proposed experience is a required component of your curriculum, thesis, or dissertation.
  2. Receive offer letter from the off-campus entity where you will participate in CPT.
  3. A signed agreement between UMB and the off-campus entity is required before CPT can be authorized. If an agreement is not already in place, OIS can assist the academic program with securing one.
  4. Submit a Curricular Practical Training request through Sunapsis.

Do not begin employment until you receive your Form I-20 with the CPT authorization on Page 2. You cannot begin your work before the start date listed on the CPT authorization.

  • What Information Must I Provide in Sunapsis?

    Upload an offer letter that includes:

    • Employer name
    • Job title
    • Employer’s address
    • Work location, if different from employer address
    • Start and end dates
    • Hours per week
    • Description of duties
    • Name and email address of your academic advisor

    After you submit the request, Sunapsis will send your advisor a form to complete.

  • What Does My Academic Advisor Provide?

    The academic advisor must:

    • Confirm the student is in good academic standing.
    • Explain how the experience is a required component of the curriculum. For thesis/dissertation students, explain why the experience is necessary to complete the student's research project.
    • Provide the associated course information, if applicable.
    • Provide a copy of the signed agreement between UMB and the off-campus entity. If an agreement is not already in place, the OIS can assist the academic program with securing one.

Contact

Office of International Services

621 W. Lombard Street
Suite 330
Baltimore, MD 21201

410-706-7488 Fax: 410-706-0265 ois-info@umaryland.edu

Please visit the Contact Us page for our hours and advising services.

Related Resources

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