On August 12, 2026, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) issued a broadcast message to Designated School Officials (DSOs) reminding them of their liability regarding Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorizations. SEVP then issued an additional message on August 24, 2026 that provided additional guidance.
Curricular Practical Training is a 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. Through these two broadcast messages, SEVP has communicated a stricter interpretation that CPT can only be issued when the training is required for all students participating in an established curriculum, regardless of their citizenship. If a student’s degree can be completed and awarded without participating in the experiential learning opportunity, this federal guidance indicates that the ISO may no longer authorize CPT for that opportunity.
The ISO has paused authorization of any new CPT requests that are not required of all students in an academic degree program. Students who already have authorized CPT should continue to follow the employer location, dates, and other conditions listed on their current Form I-20 and continue with their plans.
- SEVP Broadcast Message on August 12, 2026
- SEVP Broadcast Message on August 24, 2026
Guidance for Designated School Officials regarding Curricular Practical Training
How to connect with the ISO:
- Email Us: iso
gwu [dot] edu - Schedule an Appointment: Schedule a one-on-one session with an ISO Advisor
- Weekly Drop-in Advising: Every Tuesday from 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM.
- Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.