Curricular Practical Training

The Field of Computer Science supports PhD students in the Field to undertake one or more internships in industry that involve significant programming on a large, industrial system.  We have found that such experiences help make the student's dissertation more relevant and offers the opportunity to bring ideas from industry into our research program. 

International students wishing to partake in an internship during a semester (Fall, Spring, or Summer) will need to apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT).  CPT can be either part-time or full time.  

  • Typically students participate in part-time internships during either the Fall or Spring semester while also supported on a GRA for fellowship.  The part-time internship would be an additional 8 hours per week on top of the GRA.
  • Students supported on a TA may do 5 hours of PT CPT
  • Full-time CPT can be taken during Fall, Spring, or Summer for 40 hours a week.  Students must register LOA for the semester while on CPT.

The International Services Office of Global Learning has moved their CPT Forms Online.  In light of this I’m sharing the updated process for applying for CPT.

  1. Discuss your offer of an internship with your advisor to get their approval
  2. Obtain an offer letter for your CPT
  3. Enter your request for CPT online.  Link found here:  https://international.globallearning.cornell.edu/employment-and-taxes/f-1-cpt
  4. If your internship will be remote, please note on the form the address in which you will be working from
  5. Please enter Becky Stewart’s name and email (rss7@cornell.edu) as advisor information so that Becky can finalize the process with supporting documentation.