Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is employment that is an integral part of an established curriculum. Curricular practical training can be any of the following: alternative work/study, internship, or cooperative education (preapproved by your academic division) or any type of required internship or practicum that is offered by sponsoring employers through cooperative agreements. CPT may take place during the academic year and/or in the summer and MUST be before finishing a course of study. The U.S. immigration regulations broadly define the term employment, so it is important for students to find out if the activity they are involved in will require CPT authorization.