Marshall University logo
Common Search Terms:
admissions, apply now, online learning, request information, schedule of courses, academic calendar, bert, registrar, library, human resources, housing, hr, work order, registration, jobs, mubert
overhead shot of student studying on campus
International Student Services

Curricular Practical Training Module

Overview

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a type of work authorization that allows F-1 international students to gain practical experience directly related to their major field of study while they are still enrolled in their academic program. Unlike OPT, CPT is authorized by the school, not USCIS, and can be either part-time or full-time depending on the program’s requirements. CPT is typically used for internships, cooperative education programs, or other work experiences that are integrated into the curriculum or required for course credit. To be eligible, students must have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year (unless in a graduate program that requires immediate participation) and must have a job offer related to their major. Students must obtain approval from their Designated School Official (DSO) and have the CPT authorization noted on their Form I-20 before starting work.

Eligibility
  • Must be in valid F-1 student status.
  • Must have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year at a SEVP-certified school (unless the program requires immediate CPT for graduate students).
  • Employment must be directly related to your major field of study.
  • Must have a job offer in hand before applying for CPT.
  • Must obtain authorization from your Designated School Official (DSO), who will note it on your Form I-20.
  • The work must be part of the curriculum, either required for a course or for credit, or otherwise integral to the program of study.
  • Can be part-time (20 hours or less per week) during the semester or full-time during official breaks (if approved).
Application Process

Step 1: Review the CPT Module Prezi

Step 2: Talk with your Academic Advisor about whether an internship course is available in your program

Step 3: Obtain an offer letter

  • Your employment offer letter should include the following information:
    • Job title
    • Job description
    • Exact dates of internship/employment
    • Number of hours to be worked weekly
    • Physical address of employment (P.O. box are not acceptable)

Step 4: Complete the CPT application and submit your offer letter

After You Apply for CPT
  • Wait for an email from the Office of International Student Services.
  • Once your application and documents are received, please allow 5-7 business days for processing.
  • If additional information is needed during the review process, the Office of International Student Services will send an email to your Marshall email account with the subject “REQUEST FOR INFORMATION.”
  • Be sure to provide any necessary information within 10 days. Incomplete requests may be cancelled after 10 days.
  • If approved, you will receive an email notification to your Marshall email account letting you know your new I-20 for CPT has been issued.
  • Be advised that students may only engage in CPT after receiving DSO authorization and during the time period indicated on the I-20.