Important Updates Regarding CPT for F-1 Students

Dear members of Columbia’s international student community,

Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) issued advisories regarding Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for F-1 students (message on August 12 and another message on August 24). Unfortunately, this updated guidance significantly limits current and future CPT eligibility to only those engagements that are integral to the academic curriculum, required of all students in the program, and documented with a cooperative agreement.  

Our International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO), in consultation with colleagues across the University, has reviewed all potentially affected CPT authorizations and requests. All international students immediately impacted will be individually contacted by the ISSO today. The ISSO website, especially the CPT page has been updated to reflect the new guidance. 

Columbia’s international students are an important and valued part of our community, and we understand that these developments, along with other recent federal policy changes, are deeply concerning, particularly for those of you who have already made academic, professional, and financial plans based on your anticipated ability to participate in CPT. The University is working to further understand the long-term implications and to support our international student community as we know such changes create considerable uncertainty and stress. We are working with each school to increase support resources and develop curricular alternatives for students immediately impacted by this change. Impacted students should consult with their academic advisor and school’s dean of students to explore the alternatives available.  

This is a difficult situation, and it is highly disruptive for our affected students. At the same time, it is essential that we follow the updated advisories to protect our international students, our staff, and the broader Columbia community. It is important that we comply with the guidance in the government advisories so that we do not jeopardize a student’s ability to obtain a visa or other work authorization in the future. Additionally, adherence with SEVP requirements is essential to our ability to enroll and support international students. For these reasons, even as we acknowledge the disappointing impact of these changes, we have an obligation to follow the federal advisories carefully and consistently.

We recognize how important internship and work opportunities are to your overall academic experience, and we understand the deep disappointment these changes may cause. Please know that we are committed to supporting you through this period of uncertainty and to providing as much clarity and assistance as we can in coordination with your academic programs, while ensuring that the University and our students remain in compliance with federal requirements. 

We will continue to monitor developments closely and will share additional information as it becomes available.

Sincerely,

Angela V. Olinto
Provost
Rutherfurd Professor of Astronomy and Professor of Physics

Miguel Urquiola
Senior Vice Provost for Academic Initiatives
Dean of Social Science, Arts and Sciences
Professor of Economics and International Affairs

Ushma S. Neill
Vice Provost, Campus Integration