On August 12, 2026, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) issued a broadcast message to Designated School Officials (DSOs) reminding them of their liability regarding Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorizations. SEVP then issued an additional broadcast message on August 24, 2026, with additional guidance regarding CPT authorizations.
Curricular Practical Training is a benefit of F-1 status that allows an international student to take part in alternative work/study programs, internships, or cooperative education programs that are considered an integral part of the student’s educational program. Historically, SEVP guidance indicated that CPT was an integral part of a student’s educational program if it was required to earn the degree or the student received credit for the training. Through these two broadcast messages, SEVP has communicated a stricter interpretation that CPT can only be issued when the training is required for all students participating in an established curriculum, regardless of their citizenship. CPT tied to an elective course can no longer be approved. If your degree can be completed and awarded without participating in the experiential learning opportunity, this federal guidance indicates that the International Center may no longer authorize CPT for that opportunity.
The International Center will only be able to approve CPT when participation by all students in the degree program is mandatory for graduation. We know how incredibly valuable hands-on, experiential learning opportunities are to your academic journey and career goals. We also want to help protect your lawful status in the U.S. and your future benefit opportunities.
Students with previously approved and authorized CPT may continue with their plans. Students with concerns about their previously approved CPT authorizations for the fall semester should talk with an International Student and Scholar Advisor.
CPT applicants will need their academic advisor to attest that participation in CPT is required for all students in the degree program as outlined in the degree program requirements. Additional documentation, such as a cooperative agreement between the proposed CPT employer and the University of Michigan, may also be required.
We understand this is disappointing news, especially if you have been looking forward to having an experiential learning opportunity like an internship or already have an offer in hand. We are here to support you. If you have questions about your specific degree program requirements or existing dissertation research, or if you want to discuss alternatives to CPT, such as pre-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), please talk with an International Student and Scholar Advisor. The University of Michigan is implementing these changes based on current DHS-SEVP guidance and will continue to evaluate its practices as additional federal guidance becomes available.
The University Career Center (UCC) is available to meet with you should you have questions about working with employers and career-related opportunities in light of this recent change. For help related to your employer communications, please visit UCC’s Handshake system (search ‘drop-in’) available August 31- September 4. The UCC is also available for individual appointments following September 4.