University of North Texas 
The University is actively reviewing courses, programs, and degree requirements to ensure continued compliance with federal regulations. We understand that this may affect your academic plans, and we are committed to supporting you through this transition. UNT ISSS will work with your academic department and college to identify alternative enrollment options.
Students should not begin any employment, internship, practicum, or other practical training activity unless they have received CPT authorization from UNT ISSS. If you have questions about your individual situation, please contact UNT ISSS for guidance.
Required Curricular Practical Training
- Internship or practicum that you MUST complete to earn your degree.
OPT is authorized by Citizenship and Immigration Services to allow student employment in his/her field of study.
CPT is an academic program that provides an employment or training opportunity that is required for the degree and is an integral part of the degree program.
CPT is authorized by International Student and Scholar Services.
CPT for shorter periods of time does not affect your OPT. Part-time CPT does not affect your OPT either. OPT is only affected if you complete one year or more of full-time CPT.
You must register for credits with your CPT during the semester for which you have been approved for CPT. This includes summer registration for CPT authorized for the Summer semester.
Consult your academic or graduate advisor to determine the appropriate course in your department with a training component.
Part-time CPT is 20 hours or less per week. Full-time CPT is more than 20 hours per week.
Students who work on campus for 20 hours a week may also work part-time CPT (20 hours or less).
- The student's total work hours for each type of employment (on campus and part-time CPT) may not exceed 20 hours while school is in session.
- Please keep in mind, this is only for students who will have part-time CPT.
- This does NOT apply to full-time CPT students.
If you receive any compensation, even in-kind compensation including meals, housing, or insurance, USCIS considers this employment compensation.
If you receive employment compensation, you must apply for CPT before performing the activities associated with the compensation.
Discuss your academic program with an academic advisor to determine whether Curricular Practical Training is an integral part of your program and if it is required for all students in the program to meet the academic requirements of the degree.
Employment begins on the date listed on page 2 of the I-20.
Authorization is specific to a start date, an end date, and a specific employer.
DO NOT begin employment prior to the start date.
DO NOT continue employment after the end date.
By reporting your internship experience, you may be eligible to receive a special graduation cord to help celebrate your accomplishment! See the UNT Career Center for more information.