2a : a definite course or method of action selected from among alternatives and in light of given conditions to guide and determine present and future decisionsb : a high-level overall plan embracing the general goals and acceptable procedures especially of a governmental body.
1 The work may be paid or unpaid, full-time or part-time, which take place off-campus. 2  CPT is granted for a specific position, employer, and period.  You are not required to obtain work authorization to engage in bona fide (legitimate) volunteer activities or unpaid internships. However, if possible, we recommend that you apply for CPT if you are engaging in an unpaid internship. Please see our page on âVolunteering and Unpaid Internshipsâ for more information.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or internship, is a temporary authorization for practical training directly related to your major field of study listed on your I-20. Practical training can include employment, internship experience (paid or unpaid), and education experience. CPT is authorized by the Immigration Services for Student & Scholar (ISSS) office in accordance with F-1 regulations. CPT may be part-time (20 hours per week or less) or full-time (more than 20 hours per week).