Definition

For an experience to be considered eligible as curricular practical training, it must be required by the department for completion of the degree, receive academic credit, and appear in the college catalog as an integral part of the degree program, or be part of an alternate work/study, cooperative education program. The following are examples that would qualify for Curricular Practical Training:

• A doctoral student engaged in research for the universally required dissertation who takes employment at a research facility for purposes of engaging in essential data collection that is integral to the student's educational program
• A particular degree program, such as a doctorate in Clinical Psychology, that requires all students to work in a clinical setting (hospital or counseling center) for one year and which does not allow the field work experience to be waived

Eligibility

F-1 students are eligible for part time or full time curricular practical training if they have maintained status for at least one academic year. Employment for 20 hours or less a week while the student is simultaneously enrolled for classes is considered part time; employment for more than 20 hours a week is considered full time.

MBA Students : an established procedure/form exists for students in this degree program (click link to download).

BBA Students : an established procedure/form exists for students in this degree program (click link to download).

Checklist of Documents

• A letter from the employer stating: the name and address of the employer, the beginning and end date of employment, whether the work is full or part time, and a description of the employment.
• A letter from your academic advisor supporting the work experience.
• Your current I-20, passport, and I-94 Departure Record

Procedures

Make an appointment to see an adviser at ISSP and bring the above documentation. The adviser will authorize you for Curricular Practical Training in SEVIS, which will produce a new I-20 with the work authorization noted on page 3. You are NOT allowed to work until the authorization is reflected on your I-20. Please Note: The authorization needed on your I-20 cannot be obtained the same day as your appointment with an ISSP advisor. It will take at least 24 hours for the I-20 to be ready for your signature and pick-up. Be sure to plan the commencement of employment accordingly.

Special Note

Students who have received one year or more of full time curricular practical training are NOT eligible for Optional Practical Training. Part time curricular practical training (20 hours or less a week) is not counted toward the 1 year threshold at which the student loses eligibility for Optional Practical Training. If you have any questions please contact an ISSP advisor at 727-3300.

Emory Career Center research

The Emory Career Center recently conducted a research on "International Students and the Job Search" (Summer 2005). You can review the document here.