What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a benefit available to eligible F-1 students prior to graduation. CPT permits students to participate in internships, cooperative education programs, and other practical training opportunities that are an integral part of their academic program.

Historically, CPT has been authorized when practical training was either:

• Required for completion of the student’s degree; or
• Considered an integral part of the student’s academic program, with the student receiving academic credit through an appropriate course.

Based on the recent DHS-SEVP guidance, Life University understands that CPT may be authorized only when the practical training is required for all students enrolled in the established curriculum, regardless of citizenship. Under this interpretation, CPT may not be authorized for elective or optional practical training opportunities.

Current Life University CPT Policy

Until further legal and regulatory analysis is completed, Life University will not authorize CPT unless the practical training is required for all students enrolled in an established curriculum within the student’s primary program of study.

At this time, the undergraduate programs identified as requiring an internship for graduation include:

• Nutrition
• Psychology
• Environment and Sustainability

CPT Requests and Approval Process

All pending CPT requests that do not meet the requirement described above will be denied.

For new CPT requests, students must obtain written approval from the CGUS Dean confirming that participation in the practical training is required for all students enrolled in the established curriculum, as reflected in the degree requirements for the student’s primary program of study.

The International Department will not sign or approve CPT documentation until the required written approval from the Dean has been received.

Supporting Our F-1 Students

We recognize the significant value of hands-on and experiential learning opportunities and understand that these changes may affect both students and academic programs.

Life University is implementing these changes based on current DHS-SEVP guidance and out of an effort to help protect the lawful F-1 status of our international students. We will continue to monitor federal guidance and evaluate our CPT practices as additional information and legal analysis become available.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we navigate these changes.

What This Means for Students

At this time, no action is required.

If you travel to the United States on or after September 15, 2026, eligible students should continue to be admitted under the existing D/S rules. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers should not issue a fixed Admit Until Date (AUD) based on the postponed rule.

After entering the United States, please review your I-94 Arrival/Departure Record to confirm that:

• Your visa classification is correct; and
• Your Admit Until Date (AUD) shows D/S.

For information on accessing your I-94 record and reporting any issues, please visit the official I-94 website.

If your I-94 does not reflect D/S or if you have questions about your immigration status, please contact the International Department at international@life.edu.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue to monitor these regulatory developments. We will send additional communications as we receive updates.