Regulations regarding work authorization change frequently, and we expect changes to the CPT rules soon. Please check this page frequently for any updates to policies. Do not make important work-related plans without checking this page and talking to the DSO.
Students who wish to participate in internships or other off-campus training opportunities (paid or unpaid) before they complete their academic program must have prior Training Authorization before they begin their work. There are two types of Training Authorization. F-1 students must apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Authorization. J-1 students* must apply for J-1 Academic Training Authorization.
*ISEP students can find specific information regarding their process here.
What is Training Authorization?
What is Training Authorization?
These are training opportunities to help students gain experience in their field of study. While many students view these training opportunities as work permits, the primary goal of the training is to develop skills and gain experience, not necessarily paid employment.
USCIS and the Department of Homeland Security require that all off-campus training opportunities be recorded and authorized. There are some guidelines regarding what kinds of opportunities are permissible.
The government’s definition of Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is:
“employment which is an integral or important part of the established curriculum, including:…alternate work/study, internship, cooperative education, or any other type of required internship or practicum which is offered by sponsoring employers through cooperative agreements with the school.”
J-1 Academic Training is defined as a way “to participate in an academic training program during his or her studies.”
Both types of Training Authorization require that the employment/training opportunity be related to a student’s major field of study. A student with two majors may train in either major. Minors are not included in Training Authorization.
Who is eligible for Training Authorization?
- Training participants must be in lawful, valid F-1 or J-1 status.
- CPT participants must have maintained lawful, valid F-1 status in the United States for one full academic year in order to be eligible. The only exception is graduate students whose program requires immediate CPT.
- Training Authorization requires that the student already have a job offer. Students must submit their job offer letter as part of the application. Students may not apply for Training Authorization and look for work later.
- The employment/training opportunity must be directly related the student’s major field of study. The academic advisor’s approval is required for Training Authorization.
- Students applying for CPT must be enrolled in an internship course required for their degree program. Proof of enrollment in academic credit hours is also required for the CPT application.
The atmosphere at Truman is very welcoming for international students. I found it easy to integrate into the campus community and make a lot of connections with my peers. I also like that cultural organizations, such as Namaste Nepal, Korean American Student Association, Vietnamese Student Association, and more, host events to share their culture.