Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Your offer letter must:

• Be on official company letterhead
• Be signed by the hiring manager or supervisor
• Include the following details:
  • Job title and duties
  • Physical address of the work location
  • Start and end dates
  • Number of hours per week

• Download the CPT Request Form from your MyAUA Student Portal under the Student Forms tab.
• The form lists all required documents you must upload, including your official job offer letter.
• Incomplete authorization requests will not be processed.
• Please ensure the CPT Request Form is completed at least one week prior to the start of your CPT.

• Your academic advisor will verify that the position meets your program requirements.
• The Designated School Official (DSO) will review your eligibility, contact the employer to confirm job duties, schedule, and start/end dates, and update SEVIS accordingly.

Register for the internship or practicum course associated with your degree program.

Important tuition and fee information:
Students are charged for CPT credits in the term in which they enroll in the CPT course. Students who take only CPT during the summer term will be charged only for the 0.5 CPT credit, and no other fees will apply. Please note that tuition and fees are estimates and may change.

You will receive an updated Form I-20 with CPT authorization. Do not begin work before the start date listed on your I-20.

Important Reminders

• CPT is employer-specific and date-specific. Any change requires new authorization.
• CPT authorizations are reviewed and renewed every 8 weeks.
• Both paid and unpaid positions require CPT authorization.
• You must apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) before starting a paid CPT work authorization.
• You must remain enrolled full-time and maintain valid F-1 status throughout the CPT period.

A: No. You must wait until your DSO issues your new Form I-20 with CPT authorization. Do not begin work before the start date listed on your I-20.

A: Yes. All off-campus internships related to your field of study require CPT authorization, even if unpaid.

A: Only with prior approval. You must submit a new CPT request and receive a new I-20 before starting a role with a new employer.

A: Yes. CPT carries a charge, and students are billed for CPT credits in the term in which they enroll in the CPT course. Students taking only CPT during the summer term will be charged only for the 0.5 CPT credit, with no additional fees.”