US universities restrict CPT internship approvals amid federal scrutiny

Federal authorities in the United States are increasing scrutiny of Curricular Practical Training (CPT), a work authorization that allows F-1 international students to participate in internships and practical training. Recent guidance from the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), a division of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, emphasizes that CPT must be an ‘integral part of an established curriculum’ to be valid.

As a result of this increased oversight, several universities have adjusted their policies. The University of Southern California (USC) announced that, effective August 24, it will only authorize CPT requests when the practical training is a specific degree requirement. This change aims to comply with federal messaging stating that CPT for elective courses not required of all students in a program may not meet regulatory standards.

Other institutions have also responded to the federal guidance. UC Berkeley and UC Davis have suspended applications for CPT used for course credit while continuing to process requests that fulfill degree requirements. UC San Diego has paused the submission and processing of all F-1 CPT requests. Authorities have noted that both institutions and designated school officials could face administrative or legal consequences for authorizing CPT that is not considered integral to a student’s curriculum.