CPT Information

Practical training can provide valuable work experience by sharpening and adding to the skills you are learning in school. For the 2023-2024 academic year, we are proud to report a 100% OPT/CPT application approval rate with 100% of those approvals resulting in employment with an average starting salary of $71,034.

There are two types of practical training available for F-1 students:

• Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
• Optional Practical Training (OPT) & STEM Optional Practical Training (STEM OPT)

Internships/Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Once you have completed a substantial part of your coursework, you may be eligible for an internship/CPT if it relates directly to your program of study. Some programs require advisor approval as well.

For Graduate students, check with our Registrar office to see if you are eligible: hoodgrad@hood.edu

For Undergraduate students, check with our Career Center Office to see if you are eligible: Careers@hood.edu

• Your PDSO will provide a new I-20,"Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status" that shows your approval to participate in CPT with an external employer.
• You can only work part-time on CPT during the semester.
• CPT requires a signed cooperative agreement or a letter from your employer.
• If you have 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you are ineligible for OPT. However, part-time CPT will not stop you from doing OPT.

NOTE: You must receive employment authorization for any paid or unpaid CPT work from your PDSO before you report to your job/internship.