CPT/OPT Instructions

Student visa holders who wish to work in the United States before and after earning their degree can apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practice Training (OPT).

• CPT is for before the degree has been completed.
• OPT is for after the degree has been completed.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Please visit the International Center’s CPT website to learn details including eligibility criteria, the types of CPT, important deadlines, etc.

Applying for CPT should be done as soon as possible after receiving an offer letter. The application process should begin with the Engineering Career Resource Center (ECRC) for the College of Engineering. The above link will provide the most up-to-date links to the relevant applications and information for both undergraduate and graduate students.

• Note: Read the Registration Materials documents very carefully. It will include information and materials needed for the International Center.

As part of the process described in the aforementioned documents, you will need to obtain the Academic/Faculty Advisor Recommendation Form from Robotics. Please email your advisor at robotics-sso@umich.edu with a link to the Registration Materials on the page linked above. In that email, include the following:

1. Official job offer letter
   • The letter must include start date, end date, rate of pay and position title.
2. A detailed CPT Statement of Intent - For Graduate students only
   • Describe the job you will be doing in detail and give some description of the company and how their work relates to your field of study
   • Describe how the work that you will be doing relates to the coursework that you have done or will do in your academic program.
3. PhD candidates only: Part 3 of the Academic/Faculty Advisor Recommendation Form completed by your advisor AND a letter from your advisor on official departmental letterhead explaining how this practical training is an integral part of the research for your dissertation.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Please visit the International Center’s OPT website to learn details including eligibility criteria, the types of OPT, important deadlines etc.

As part of the process described on their website, students will need to request an “OPT recommendation letter” from their academic advisor or graduate coordinator.

Instructions for OPT letter:

1. Finalize your registration. We cannot provide the OPT letter until your record reflects the course(s) you will be completing.
2. Apply for graduation via Wolverine Access.
3. Submit completed MS Degree Worksheet
4. Email robotics-sso@umich.edu to request an OPT letter.
5. Allow a minimum of 2 business days to receive the letter from SSO staff.
6. Complete the remaining steps outlined on the International Center’s website.