What is CPT?

CPT Definition

WHAT DOES "CURRICULAR" MEAN?

• "Curricular" is a reference to the academic degree requirements that are needed to complete a degree.
• Off-Campus work authorization for internships and other job opportunities must be integral to your degree program. 
• Integral 
  • Required internship or optional work experience directly related to degree completion.
• Temporary work authorization
  • Authorized only one semester at a time for all CPT 
  • Authorization dates will mirror the start date of the term and will end on the last day of finals. 
  • Required for paid employment 
• Employer Specific
  • Must be employer specific
  • Must have an offer letter

TYPES OF TRAINING THAT REQUIRES CPT

• How do I know if my work opportunity is integral?
  • Required Internships:
    • Cannot graduate without a department-defined work experience
    • Must have a course enrollment
    •  CPT course must be taken the same term of CPT authorization
  • Optional Work Experience: 
    •  Elective required for graduation
    •  Directly related to degree program
    • Must be enrolled in and complete the approved CPT course
    • CPT course must be taken the same term of CPT authorization
    • Any activity within a CSU course that requires "out of the classroom" experience or training requires CPT authorization prior to starting the "out of classroom" activity.

 * Scam Warning!: Please know that your employer should not ask you to pay any fee for your internship job or job training. Those scammers would ask for a fee payment before starting the job and tell you the payment would be refunded in a future paycheck. However, it would be a scam. If it happens to you, do not make a payment and contact CISP advisor immediately.