Several U.S. campuses are tightening controls on Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorisations for international students in response to revised guidance from the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). This move comes after SEVP reported a rise in CPT approvals that appeared inconsistent with regulations. As a result, universities are re-examining their CPT policies to ensure compliance with federal requirements.
The University of Rochester has suspended most new CPT authorisations while it reviews the revised SEVP guidance. The university will only allow training that is a mandatory component of a degree program. This decision aims to ensure that the university's CPT authorisations align with SEVP regulations and avoid potential penalties. Universities risk severe penalties, including loss of certification to enrol international students, if federal officials determine CPT authorisations were improperly granted.
Cornell University has also adopted stricter CPT requirements, limiting approval to internships that meet specific academic criteria and are integrated into the curriculum. The university's new policy aims to ensure that CPT placements are an integral part of a student's academic programme. Both schools have warned that optional or elective placements, primarily for professional development, will now face heightened scrutiny and may be denied.
The SEVP communications issued in August highlighted concerns over the increasing number of CPT approvals and the need for closer monitoring and detailed compliance reviews. Designated school officials must certify that each CPT placement meets legal requirements and is an integral part of the student's academic programme, adding to institutional compliance burdens. This increased oversight aims to ensure that universities adhere to federal regulations regarding CPT authorisations.
Students who have secured internships but lack CPT approval have been told not to start work until formal authorisation is received and to consult their international student offices before accepting any off-campus employment. This caution aims to prevent students from inadvertently violating federal regulations. Universities are working to inform students and staff about the changes and ensure a smooth transition to the new CPT policies.
The tightening of CPT approvals reflects the U.S. government's increased scrutiny of international student programs. Universities must balance the need to provide students with practical training opportunities with the requirement to comply with federal regulations. The changes are expected to have a significant impact on international students and universities alike, as they adapt to the new CPT policies.
Key stakeholders, including students, universities, and federal officials, will need to work together to ensure a successful implementation of the new CPT policies. The changes aim to promote compliance with federal regulations while providing students with valuable practical training opportunities. By tightening CPT approvals, universities can mitigate the risk of severe penalties and maintain their certification to enrol international students.
Key points
- Universities risk severe penalties, including loss of certification to enrol international students, if federal officials determine CPT authorisations were improperly granted.
- Cornell University has adopted stricter CPT requirements, limiting approval to internships that meet specific academic criteria and are integrated into the curriculum.
- The University of Rochester has suspended most new CPT authorisations while it reviews the revised SEVP guidance.
