Dear Student,
On Wednesday, August 12, 2026, the International Services and Engagement Office (ISEO) received a Guidance Memo from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), related to the liability of school officials when processing applications for curricular practical training (CPT).
The memo identifies provisions and criteria for authorizing CPT that are narrow in nature and require a review of the policies and practices ISEO currently follows. The memo specifies that CPT should only be authorized in cases in which CPT is a requirement of the degree for all students in the degree program, without which the degree would be unattainable.
Considering this new guidance memo, and to minimize risk to ISEO advisors and the university, ISEO is temporarily pausing all applications for “Course Credit CPT,” which are considered integral to the program of study but are not a degree requirement, until further notice. This pause should also allow students to avoid any potential issues should they seek other immigration benefits such as Extension of Stay or OPT.
Students whose course credit CPT applications have already been fully processed, and who have already received a CPT I-20 from ISEO, are not affected by this pause and may participate in the ongoing or upcoming CPT opportunity specified on their CPT I-20.
There may be legal challenges to this new guidance that may affect future processing of course credit CPT applications. ISEO will provide an update following consultation with legal counsel.
In the interim, should you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact ISEO at iContact.ucsd.edu.
ISEO does not take this decision lightly and understands the importance that course credit CPT carries in the academic journey of our students. UC San Diego values your presence on this campus and is committed to ensuring that your academic experience is fulfilling and rewarding. We are here to support you.
Sincerely,
Gabriela Hoffmann
Senior Director
International Services and Engagement Office
