Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a prior to graduation 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, CPT has been approved for internships and other work opportunities that were not required for graduation but were pursuant to a class with a formal work component, or directly related to the student’s thesis topic.
On August 24, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (DHS-SEVP) issued Broadcast Message 2608-02, clarifying that CPT can only be issued where the practical training is required for all students participating in that curriculum, regardless of citizenship. CPT that is tied to an elective course can no longer be approved.
Effective immediately, International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) will only be able to approve CPT where participation by all students in the program is mandatory for graduation. CPT applicants will need their academic advisor to attest that participation in CPT is required by all students in this program as outlined in the Programs of Study catalogue, and will need to provide evidence that their proposed CPT employer has entered into a cooperative agreement with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign where it is agreed the employer will sponsor the school's students for this specific training.
Previously approved and authorized CPT will not be affected.
Due to the large number of inquiries regarding this broadcast message, ISSS regrets that we cannot currently respond to individual questions. The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is implementing these changes based on current DHS-SEVP guidance and will continue to evaluate its practices as additional federal guidance becomes available.