CPT Application Process

1. Apply for internship opportunities

It's OK to search and apply before you are eligible or approved for CPT. Below are some resources within UW Tacoma:

2. Connect with your academic/ graduate program advisor

 

  • An internship is optional for most majors, therefore students must register for an internship class.

  • Learn how to register for an internship class and class expectations.

  • Check if the advisor agrees that the positions are directly related to the major area of study. Students cannot do CPT for their minors.

 

3. Secure an internship offer and register for an internship class

  • Pay attention to the Academic Calendar (https://www.tacoma.uw.edu/registrar) for the last date to add a course for the quarter.

  • Make sure the internship offer letter follows these guidelines:

    • The letter should be on company letterhead (company name and address)

    • Include position title, start, and end date, the position duties/responsibilities

    • Include compensation (if the internship is paid)

    • Signature from hiring manager/internship supervisor

4. Submit CPT request in the ISSS Portal

Log into the ISSS Portal. Navigate to "Student Requests and Documents" section and click on CPT Request Form.

NOTICE: CPT request form is only available to student with an active SEVIS record. If you are a new student and your SEVIS record has not been activated, you will NOT be able to access this form.  If you need assistance, please email: uwtiss@uw.edu.

In the request for, you will need to fill out basic info such as CPT dates, internship address and your academic advisor's info. You will also need to upload a copy of internship offer letter.  Once you submit, your academic/ graduate program advisor will receive an email for approval. If they do not respond, your request won't be submitted. Please email uwtiss@uw.edu if you experience any issue.

Allow 5 business days for processing. Your International Student Advisor will issue your CPT approved I-20. The new I-20 will list details of CPT authorization on the second page. Verify that the information is correct - specifically full-time/part-time, start date, end date, employer name, city, and state information. 

5. Apply for Social Security Number

  • Students without SSN must apply for SSN if their internship is paid.

  • If you have CPT but your internship is not paid, you can still apply for an SSN.

  • Students can apply for SSN no earlier than 30 days before the internship start date.

  • Visit this page (https://www.tacoma.uw.edu/oga/isss-ssn) to learn more about the application process.