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At Nova Southeastern University, we empower you with the edge to excel in a competitive world. Our Curricular Practical Training (CPT) program combines real-world training with academic excellence. As an F-1 student, you'll gain hands-on training through internships, cooperative education, or practicum experience, preparing you for a successful career journey.

What is CPT?

F-1 students can seek off-campus employment authorization through Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which includes internships and practical experiences essential to their academic program. This must comply with guidelines established by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). 

Eligibility

To qualify for CPT at NSU, an F-1 student must

• be enrolled full-time for at least one academic year at an I-20 issuing institution.
• secure an internship directly related to your major.
• complete the NSU CPT Application Packet with approval from your academic adviser.
• submit the completed CPT Packet to intl@nova.edu.

Application Process

1. Watch the CPT Overview video.
2. Choose the appropriate NSU CPT Application based on your program: 
   • Undergraduate Student CPT for Academic Credit
   • Undergraduate Student CPT for ExEL Units
   • CPT Application - General Masters and Professional
   • CPT Application - Shepard Broad College of Law Students Only
   • CPT Application - College of Pharmacy Students Only 
3. You will need a letter from your prospective employer, including:
   • Company letterhead or bona fide company email.
   • Date the letter was issued, physical address, and contact information.
   • Confirmation of full-time (more than 20 hours/week) or part-time (20 hours/week or less) status.
     • There is no limit on how many times you can apply for CPT. Federal regulations, however, will not allow a student to apply for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) if 12 months or more full-time CPT has been granted at the same level of education. Part-time CPT does not affect your ability to apply for OPT.
   • Full description of training and duties.
   • Signature of the authorized hiring officer. 

Important: If your employment is arranged through a staffing agency, make sure the letter confirms your employment status and includes the agency's conditions. 

Important Dates 

• Start Date: Must begin no earlier than the first day of the semester that CPT was approved for, as per the NSU academic calendar.
• End Date: Must be before the first day of classes for the next term/semester or your I-20 end date. CPT ends on the day you graduate if applicable. 

CPT Requirements

To be eligible for CPT, the training must be part of the established curriculum and directly related to your major, confirmed by the department Internship Coordinator. You must also

• maintain valid F-1 status.
• have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year (8 months) at the current educational level.
  • Exceptions:
    • New graduate students in programs requiring CPT in the first two semesters may start CPT after applying.
    • Integrated program students cannot apply for CPT after completing their last undergraduate year.
• remain enrolled full-time during CPT.