Understanding the Risks and Benefits of Day 1 CPT

Is Day 1 CPT Legal?

Day 1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows F1 visa international students to engage in paid internships or work experiences related to their field of study from the first day of their graduate program. According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), CPT is legal as long as the work is directly related to the student's major and meets the program’s requirements.

Certain fields like hospitality management, nursing, and education emphasize hands-on experience, making internships a crucial part of their curriculum. This is why USCIS permits such internships in the U.S. However, it’s important to note that Day 1 CPT can be a gray area if it’s perceived as being used primarily to extend work authorization in the U.S. Improper use of Day 1 CPT could lead to severe consequences, including deportation.

How to Ensure Legal Use of Day 1 CPT

1. Choose Reputable Day 1 CPT universities: Select a school with one of the six major regional accreditations, such as the Higher Learning Commission or the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Schools with these accreditations are considered legitimate and provide trustworthy CPT programs. Avoid schools that don’t require on-site attendance or have a questionable reputation.

2. Obtain and Renew Your CPT I-20: Always secure your CPT I-20 before starting work and renew it on time. Failing to do so can result in your status becoming unauthorized, which could jeopardize your stay in the U.S.

3. Maintain a Good GPA: A GPA of 3.0 or higher is essential to demonstrate that you are a serious student. Attend classes and complete assignments to avoid issues during potential USCIS reviews.

4. Ensure Work Relevance: The job you do on Day 1 CPT must be closely related to your major. If your job doesn’t align well with your field of study, your CPT school may advise you to change your job description or even your major to comply with USCIS regulations.

5. Choose Your Major Carefully: Avoid pursuing multiple degrees in the same field, as this could raise suspicions with USCIS. For example, pursuing a Ph.D. instead of a second master's in a similar field can demonstrate academic progression and reduce the risk of visa issues.

Challenges of Day 1 CPT

1. Cost: Day 1 CPT can be expensive, with tuition fees ranging from $800 to $1400 per month. This cost can be mitigated through scholarships or referral bonuses. Remember, investing in CPT is essentially buying more chances in the H1B lottery.

2. Academic Workload: Balancing work and study can be exhausting, especially with increasing on-site attendance requirements. The coursework typically requires 3-4 hours per week, so efficient time management is crucial.

Does Day 1 CPT Affect OPT?

Using Day 1 CPT does not directly affect your Optional Practical Training (OPT) eligibility unless you use full-time CPT for 12 months or more, which would exhaust your OPT. It’s advisable to opt for part-time CPT if you plan to use OPT after graduation.

Can a Day 1 CPT Degree Be Used for the Master's Cap Lottery?

Yes, a Day 1 CPT degree can be used for the Master’s Cap Lottery, provided the school is a non-profit institution. If it's your first master’s degree, it must be from a non-profit school to qualify for the Master’s Cap.

Does Using Day 1 CPT Increase the Risk of H1B RFE?

Using Day 1 CPT could increase the likelihood of receiving a Request for Evidence (RFE) from USCIS. However, an RFE is not a denial; it simply requires additional documentation. Reputable Day 1 CPT schools often assist students in preparing an "RFE package" to meet USCIS requirements.

Does Day 1 CPT Affect Green Card Applications?

Generally, Day 1 CPT does not negatively impact your green card application. As long as you attend a legitimate CPT school and fulfill your responsibilities as an F1 student—such as attending classes, maintaining a good GPA, and renewing your CPT on time—you should not face issues during your green card application process.

Can I Update My Visa Status or Travel Home During CPT?

It’s generally not recommended to travel outside the U.S. during CPT, especially if your F1 visa has expired. While your I-20 remains valid, traveling could complicate your reentry. It’s safest to wait until you have obtained an H1B visa or a green card before traveling back to your home country.

Need Help Navigating Day 1 CPT?

If you’re interested in Day 1 CPT or facing visa status issues, CPTDog’s consultants are here to help. We can guide you through the complexities of the U.S. educational and visa systems, ensuring you make informed decisions that align with your long-term goals.