CPT Policy Update: Temporary Pause on Optional CPT Authorizations
On August 12 and August 24, 2026, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) issued broadcast messages, Guidance for Designated School Officials Regarding Curricular Practical Training and Reminder of Liability for DSOs Regarding CPT Authorization to Designated School Officials setting out a narrower interpretation of when Curricular Practical Training may be considered an integral part of an established curriculum. Under this interpretation, CPT should be authorized only where the practical training is required of every student in the program, and the degree cannot be completed without it.
International Student and Scholar Services is reviewing our CPT policy in light of these messages. We are consulting with the Office of General Counsel and university leadership to understand what the guidance means for our current practice and for students already in or planning training experiences.
Effective immediately, ISSS is pausing new CPT authorizations for training that is not a required component of the academic program for all students in that program. You may continue to submit CPT requests through UAtlas, but we will not issue new optional CPT authorizations until our review is complete.
If you already hold authorized CPT, continue to follow the employer, location, dates, and other conditions listed on your current Form I-20. Contact ISSS before making any change to your training experience.
We recognize this pause creates real uncertainty, particularly for those of you with employment already arranged, and we are working as quickly as we can. We will share another update once our review concludes. Please watch your university email and the ISSS website for further information.
Questions about how this affects your specific situation can be directed to a.fynn@utah.edu or discussed with an International Student Advisor.
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