The Trump administration has issued a memorandum imposing stricter restrictions on university approval of internships for international students in the United States. The memorandum, issued on August 24, warns that institutions could lose certification to enroll foreign students if they fail to comply with rules governing Curricular Practical Training, or CPT.

The memo says monitoring under Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program found an alarming increase in CPT approvals. Under existing rules, CPT is permitted only when it is an essential component of a student’s academic curriculum. The Department of Homeland Security said the rules themselves have not changed, but misuse of them will no longer be tolerated.

Following the memorandum, several universities have temporarily paused some internship applications. Berkeley, however, continues to process applications for internships that are required for degree completion. Rights advocates have voiced concern over free expression, academic freedom and due process amid broader pressure by the Trump administration on universities over policies and programs.