The Northeastern Experience!
U.S. News & World Report ranks Northeastern University's innovative cooperative education program among the world's best. International students in valid F-1 and J-1 status may take advantage of this invaluable opportunity to combine classroom study with real life experience.
What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?
Before you can participate in any experiential learning opportunity you must meet federally mandated and institutionally approved eligibility criteria. These requirements cannot be waived and working without authorization can have serious legal consequences.
F-1 students need to apply for work authorization in the form of Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for each period of employment, regardless of location and compensation. CPT is employment that is integral to and required for your program of study, including cooperative education, internships, practicum and thesis research. All CPT authorizations must correlate with registered coursework, co-op work experience or research which counts toward your degree. For employment opportunities that are related to, but not required for your academic program, please see our information on applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT).
J-1 students interested in co-op, internships, practicum and thesis research should see our information on applying for Academic Training (AT).
When to Apply
You should apply for CPT or AT work authorization at least two weeks before your proposed employment start date. Students who apply late may not be able to start their employment on time. You cannot begin working until you have received written authorization from the ISSI.
How to Apply
College of Professional Studies (CPS) Students
To apply for authorization for co-op or an internship, complete ISSI Form 165: CPT (Co-op and Internship) Form for CPS International Students with a CPS co-op advisor. Make sure that you are properly registered for the related course with the Registrar's Office. Bring Form 165 to the ISSI along with a copy of your passport, your I-94 card, and your I-20 at least two weeks before your employment start date. You will receive an email when your CPT authorization documents are ready to be picked up at the ISSI.
Co-op
To apply for authorization for your co-op employment, complete ISSI Form 152 "Co-op Application Form for International Students" with your co-op advisor after you have found your co-op position. Bring Form 152 to the ISSI along with a copy of your passport, your I-94 card, and your I-20 (F-1 students) or DS -2019 (J-1 students) at least two weeks before your co-op start date. You will receive an email when your co-op authorization documents are ready to be picked up at the ISSI.
Internship, Practicum or Thesis Research
To apply for authorization for an internship, practicum or thesis research, complete ISSI Form 105: Internship (CPT) Form for International Students with your academic advisor. Make sure that you are properly registered for the related course with the Registrar's Office. Bring Form 105 to the ISSI along with a copy of your passport, your I-94 card, and your I-20 (F-1 students) or DS -2019 (J-1 students) at least two weeks before your employment start date. You will receive an email when your CPT authorization documents are ready to be picked up at the ISSI.