US universities restrict internships for international students
Several major US universities have suspended or restricted the review of applications for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for international students following August guidance from the US Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). CPT allows students on F-1 visas to undertake internships and other practical training related to their studies.
As reported by the South China Morning Post, SEVP emphasized that CPT must be an integral part of an approved curriculum and directly correspond to a student's field of study. Such training must generally be necessary for obtaining a degree and mandatory for all students in the relevant program, rather than being used solely to provide an employment opportunity.
Pause at universities
On August 13, the University of California, Berkeley suspended the review of CPT applications for academic credit if such training is not a formal requirement for earning a degree. At the same time, the institution continued processing applications for practical training required to complete studies. The university explained the decision by its desire to reduce risks for staff of the international office and for the institution itself.
On August 29, the University of Pennsylvania put new and pending CPT applications on hold while it reviews curricula and procedures. The university said CPT had not been canceled and that applications under review had not been rejected.
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On August 31, New York University announced a stricter interpretation of the rules: in the institution's view, CPT may be authorized only when it is explicitly a mandatory requirement of an educational program. Previously approved authorizations for the fall semester remain valid, but the review of pending applications has been suspended.
New CPT requirements
The University of Southern California said that CPT based on an elective course does not meet federal requirements. As of August 24, the university generally limited such practical training to programs required for graduation.
The University of Washington also suspended new CPT applications if work experience is not mandatory for all students in the program. The University of Rochester no longer considers optional internships, clinical practice, and other types of practical training acceptable, including those linked to elective internship courses.
The changes affect students from all countries holding F-1 visas. Universities that updated their rules generally continue to recognize CPT previously approved in official documents. Students may not begin off-campus work before receiving the required CPT authorization.
