CPT (Curricular Practical Training) is an employment option for off-campus career opportunities, much like OPT (Optional Practical Training). It is available for students who have been in F-1 student status for nine months or longer. Smith's policies allow for students to use CPT authorization to pursue off-campus jobs and internships -- paid or unpaid -- during Summer (and J-term under limited circumstances).
CPT differs from the OPT in that the job/internship for which you are applying must be an integral part of a curricular opportunity at Smith. In other words, this internship must be an essential part of your coursework and relate directly to your major course of study. CPT can be issued on a part-time (20 hours per week or less) or full-time (more than 20 hours per week) basis. Part-time CPT will not interfere with the ability to pursue your 12 months of Optional Practical Training. Full-time CPT that totals 12 months or more will result in a student being ineligible for OPT.