Disclaimer
Curricular Practical Training for F-1 Students
F-1 undergraduate Students who have completed one full academic year or graduate students who are properly maintaining their status and are in good academic standing (as defined by the standards of their respective school/program) may be eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
CPT activity (work/study, internship, cooperative education) may be full or part time and must be directly related to the student's major area of study. The training must also be required for their degree program/track OR result in the student receiving course credit. CPT activity may be paid or unpaid.
F-1 Students must receive specific authorization from a DSO prior to beginning any Curricular Practical Training.
In order to receive DSO authorization, the F-1 Student must submit the following to the Office of International Services:
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A letter of offer from the employer/trainer which includes the location, dates, duties and weekly hours and is signed by the student's training supervisor.
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A letter recommending CPT from their Academic Dean or Advisor explaining how the activity is directly related to their major and why it is required (must be listed as such in LSUHSC Catalog) for their program and/or the course credit (including course enrollment required) that will be awarded.
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A completed and signed CPT Request form
Students may NOT begin any CPT until their Form I-20 has been updated reflecting CPT authorization and the start date has been reached. CPT cannot be canceled after the start date has been reached (duration may be shortened.)
All students on CPT must maintain full time enrollment (including any credit received for CPT) and continue normal academic progress in their degree program.
CPT authorization ends automatically when a student transfers to another institution.
Students who have used 12 months of full time CPT are not eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT). Part time CPT does not count against available OPT time.