CPT Overview

IMPORTANT UPDATE:

Based on broadcast messages issued by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) on August 12, 2026 and on August 24, 2026, we are pausing CPT requests that are not required as a part of an established curriculum in a student's major or primary program of study. We understand that this news may be disappointing to many of you. However, we have made this difficult decision to help protect your lawful status in the United States and preserve your eligibility for future non-immigrant benefits. This pause will remain in effect while we conduct further legal analysis. We will provide updates as soon as additional information becomes available. 

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT allows international students to engage in training that is an integral part of an established curriculum and directly related to their major area of study. CPT should be driven by students’ curriculum not by their desire for employment.

We hope this page will help students to gain a better understanding of CPT.

Upcoming CPT & Pre-Completion OPT Info Sessions via Zoom

Fridays, 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM

Zoom meeting link: https://washington.zoom.us/j/6156596035

Date
October 9, 2026
January 15, 2027
April 9, 2027
June 25, 2027
October 8, 2027
CPT Application Process

Application Process

Click here to learn more about the application steps for the CPT

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CPT Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Click here to learn more about the frequently asked questions

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Pre-completion OPT

Pre-completion OPT

Pre-completion OPT is OPT that students can engage in before completion of their studies.

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  CPT Pre-completion OPT
Application Reviewed by International Student Advisor at UW Tacoma United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Fee None $410
Offer from Employer Required Not required
Internship Class Required (must register before the deadline to add a class) Not required
Processing Time 5 business days 90 calendar days or longer
Hours per week Up to 40 hours/week Limited to 20 hours per week while enrolled in classes and up to 40 hours per week during breaks.
Post-completion OPT Implication Loss of eligibility when full-time CPT authorization is active for 365 calendar days. Otherwise, no impact.** Time spent on Pre-completion OPT will be deducted from 12 months of Post-completion OPT.