Student and Exchange Visitor Program Broadcast Message about CPT
Note: This information was originally posted Aug. 14, 2026; it was updated with additional information and reposted Aug. 27.
The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) issued a Aug. 12 to Designated School Officials (DSOs) regarding Curricular Practical Training (CPT) eligibility and school reporting standards. A was sent Aug. 24 repeating the guidance from the first email that CPT may only be authorized when an internship is a graduate requirement for all students in the program.
The Office of International Education (OIE) has reviewed both messages and we have sought clarification and legal guidance. The messages clearly change SEVP's standards for CPT authorization.
Although these changes appear to be extraregulatory, it is clear that SEVP is holding firm to their new guidance. Students in programs that offer internships as an elective option must instead apply for and receive approval for pre-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) to participate in an internship. OIE is in the process of updating our CPT webpage to incorporate these changes.
We understand that changes to CPT regulations may raise questions or concerns, and we're here to help navigate any potential impact on academic plans. Students who have time-sensitive questions about the impact of SEVP's CPT changes may schedule an appointment with their or reach out to oie@andrew.cmu.edu.