Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
CPT is employment which is an integral or important part of the school curriculum including; alternative work study, internship, cooperative education or any other type of required internship or practicum which is offered by sponsoring employers through cooperation with the school.
It must be directly related to your major field of study and must be at your level of study. (i.e. Masters, Phd)
Only Part time CPT (20 hours per week or less) is allowed while doing coursework, with minor exceptions. Full time CPT (20 plus hours per week) is permitted during breaks (summer vacation) or while registered for continuous doctorate studies.
If you use a cumulative total of 12 months or more of full time CPT you will then be ineligible to apply for OPT.