New CPT guidance narrows eligibility for some F-1 student internships

Recent Student and Exchange Visitor Program guidance is prompting U.S. universities to review how they authorize Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for F-1 students.

University international offices report that August guidance from SEVP says CPT should be tied to practical training that is an integral and required part of an established curriculum applying to students in the programme, rather than an elective experience available only to individual students.

The guidance has implications for international students seeking internships, co-op placements and other practical training while studying in the United States.

Universities including UMBC, NC State and Stony Brook have issued guidance asking students with pending or future CPT requests to consult their international student offices before making commitments with employers.

The guidance does not eliminate Optional Practical Training (OPT), and students should distinguish CPT rules from the separate OPT authorization process.

Sources: SEVP guidance as summarized by UMBC and NC State international student offices; September 2026.