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) is F-1 work authorization for off-campus employment opportunities that are an integral. part of your curriculum. CPT employment must be directly related to your major field of study. It is only available to F-1. students who have not graduated and who have been enrolled on a full-time basis in the US for one full academic year (i.e., fall and spring.) Full-time is at least 36 units per semester. Degree programs requiring off-campus employment before. meeting this one academic year requirement may be eligible for CPT.