Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is defined as employment which is an integral part of an established curriculum, including: “alternate work/study, internship, cooperative education, or any other type of required internship or practicum which is offered by sponsoring employers through cooperative agreements with the school.” Source: [8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(i)]. CPT is available only prior to the completion of your degree program and you must have a job offer at the time of application. CPT employment may not delay completion of the academic program.CPT is available only if the curriculum of your degree requires students to complete and internship, practicum or cooperative education. Every program at MSUM has different academic requirements, not every student at MSUM will be able to take the advantage of CPT.
You are eligible to apply for CPT authorization if the following applies to you:
If you meet the above eligibility criteria, you will need to make an appointment with International Student Services to obtain authorization on the 2nd page of your I-20. The CPT process does not need to be sent to USCIS or need money to process the application. You will need to bring the following documentation before your appointment with International Student Services:
Please note: Students must remember to LIMIT working full-time under CPT for less than 12 months. If you EXCEED 12 months full time you will lose your OPT privileges.