CPT Authorization Dates and Extensions

CPT is authorized on a term-by-term basis and cannot extend past the start of a new term. Any practical training experience that extends into a new term will require a new CPT application and authorization. Exception: graduate students who have a multi-term internship or practicum requirement, or who are approved for CPT for research activities that are deemed integral to an approved thesis or dissertation requirement, can be authorized for CPT that extends beyond one term. However, students in this situation are obligated to continue to register for internship or research credits and maintain full-time enrollment each term.

• You cannot begin or continue CPT unless you have a Form I-20 from the International Center with CPT approval with active dates

• Retroactive CPT authorizations cannot be issued, i.e., the International Programs Center cannot approve CPT that has already started and/or completed. If CPT has already started and you have not alerted your P/DSO and it is not on your I-20, your work is UNAUTHORIZED and cannot be back dated. 

• If you start CPT without getting International Center approval first, you may be considered to be working without authorization.