When can I start a paid, off-campus internship for Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?

F-1 and J-1 students must complete two full semesters before applying for CPT to start a paid, off-campus internship. In general, students should allow 15 business days for a CPT form to be processed: 5 days at Wagner and 10 business days at the Office of Global Services.

For example, a Fall 2023-start student can begin an internship after the last day of the Spring 2024 semester. A Spring 2024 start student may start a paid, off-campus internship in December 2024, after the last day of the Fall 2024 semester.

To fulfill the PER, you must begin your first internship prior to the first day of Capstone. Most students begin their PER internship in the summer prior to Capstone.

Before you apply for or accept an internship, you should have a conversation with Wagner’s Office of Career Services.