Cheapest Day 1 CPT Universities
Selecting the ideal university for your Day 1 CPT program involves more than just comparing tuition fees. While managing financial challenges is a significant concern for international students, and tuition costs are certainly a key factor, it's crucial to also consider elements like the university's location, living expenses, and the potential for USCIS scrutiny. These aspects substantially influence the total cost and the value of your educational and professional journey. We created this guide to help you to find the "cheapest" Day 1 CPT universities that suits your need.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Day 1 CPT Universities: What Are They?
Day 1 CPT universities, also referred to as "Day 1 CPT Schools," or "Day 1 CPT Colleges" are educational institutions that facilitate Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization from the beginning of their academic programs. Some of them only provides Day 1 CPT programs, others are regular universities adopted this form of education for few programs they offer.
Are they different from traditional universities?
Yes and No.
Yes:
- Day 1 CPT universities prioritize assisting their students in entering the job market; as such, the programs they offer are more job-oriented than research-oriented.
- Day 1 CPT programs are typically at the master's level.
- They integrate internship opportunities into the curriculum, often leading to a unique set of requirements for F1 international students, such as a reduced on-site presence but a mandatory internship experience.
- Instead of investing heavily in research and competing for research funding, Day 1 CPT universities frequently collaborate with the industry and employ instructors from leading companies. This approach ensures that students stay abreast of industry trends and begin to forge connections within the workforce.
No:
- Several traditional universities are now adopting Day 1 CPT programs. For example, UC Riverside introduced its first Day 1 CPT program, an MS in Business Analytics, in 2024.
- The term "Day 1 CPT universities" is an informal name used by international students in search of Day 1 CPT programs.
- Although Day 1 CPT programs may focus more on practical training than academic research, they still maintain accreditation standards. Any deviation claimed regarding accreditation should be scrutinized.
- Notably, one of the most popular Day 1 CPT universities on the west coast, Westcliff University, shares the same accreditation as UCLA, a well-known traditional university within the UC system.
The Cost of Day 1 CPT Programs
If we only talk about tuitions, normally:
- For master's program it usually cost around 15,000 - 30,000 USD/program.
- For doctoral program it usually cost around 50,000 USD/program
Checklist of Cost Factors
Searching for the most cost-effective Day 1 CPT universities involves more than finding the lowest tuition rate. It's essential to assess the overall value, incorporating tuition fees and other factors such as transportation, . Additionally, the income from Day 1 CPT employment can significantly impact your financial planning.
Financial aid and scholarships are crucial considerations. Some institutions, despite higher tuition fees, provide substantial scholarships that greatly reduce overall expenses. Moreover, the quality of education is paramount; a less expensive university that fails to deliver quality education and promising job prospects post-graduation is not a true saving.
For a comprehensive evaluation, here's a checklist focusing on both "day 1 cpt universities" and "day 1 cpt cost":
- Tuition Fees: Look beyond the price tag to the value offered in terms of education quality.
- Cost of Living: Evaluate the living expenses in different locations, as they can vary significantly across the US.
- Financial Aid and Scholarships: Investigate available financial support options that can lower your expenses.
- Earning Potential through CPT: Consider how much you can earn through Day 1 CPT work, which can help cover living costs and tuition.
- Additional Fees: Be aware of extra charges, such as technology or lab fees, that can increase overall costs.
- Quality of Education: A lower-cost university that compromises on education quality is not a wise choice. Look at the institution's reputation, accreditation, and graduate success.
- Travel Expenses: Factor in the cost of travel, especially if you plan to visit home or explore the US.
- Program Duration: Longer programs might offer better education and job readiness, also, more chances to enter H1B lottery, potentially offering better value despite higher costs.
- Summer Vacations: Some Day 1 CPT universities allow students to take summer semester off while still be able to use CPT to work, which means, during summer, you don't have to pay tuition.
- Campus Resources: Consider the availability of facilities like libraries and labs, which enhance the learning experience.
Selecting the right Day 1 CPT university is a balance between affordability and quality, ensuring you invest in a program that offers both financial viability and a solid foundation for your future career.
Day 1 CPT with the Lowest Tuition
Focusing solely on tuition, these institutions are often cited as the "most affordable Day 1 CPT universities."
Yet, feedback from our students reveals that the University of the Cumberlands and Campbellsville University include several "hidden costs" that emerge only after enrollment.
CPTDog has assisted numerous students in transferring out of these two universities. We believe it's our duty to share this information, ensuring you have a comprehensive understanding of the costs associated with Day 1 CPT before making your decision.
$16,500 / Program
$ 17,500 / Program
$17,952 / Program
Cheapest Day 1 CPT Universities Near You
Location plays a crucial role in making your Day 1 CPT experience more affordable. While most Day 1 CPT programs require student attendance only once per semester, traveling across the state for school can significantly increase your costs, including commute and accommodation expenses.
For programs that require on-site attendance once a month, we strongly recommend choosing them only if you live nearby. Many of our students had to transfer from such schools because the transportation costs were unmanageable, and their employers were not supportive of the frequent days off needed to attend on-site classes.
*Note: The cost difference between two CPT schools can reach up to $9,000 for the entire program. When you factor in transportation and additional expenses, the variation can be even greater. Therefore, making the right choice could save you thousands of dollars. If your situation is complex, consider consulting with CPTDog's advisors. They can provide guidance or share experiences from others in similar situations to help you make an informed decision.
Cheapest Day 1 CPT Universities in the West
CIAM
CPT Programs |
Per Credit Hour |
Total Credits |
Total Tuition (CPT Cost Incl.) |
Annual Tuition |
MBA |
$667 | 36 | $24,000 | $12,000 |
*At CIAM, there are no hidden costs, not even for parking! Additionally, CIAM stands out as the only Day 1 CPT university that offers free lunch to students during their on-site visits.
Trine University
CPT Programs |
Per Credit Hour |
Total Credits |
Total Tuition (CPT Cost Incl.) |
Annual Tuition |
Master's Program |
$575 | 30 | $18,687.5 | $9,343 |
Doctor of IT |
$700 | 60 | $47,250 | $9,450 |
* CPT = 0.5 credit hour
*At Trine University, you have the option to take the summer semester off. There's no requirement to enroll in classes, yet you can still utilize CPT for work. This flexibility can extend the duration of the program and the use of CPT, allowing students to participate in the H1B lottery twice during their Master's program.
University of the Cumberlands
CPT Programs |
Per Credit Hour |
Total Credits |
Total Tuition (CPT CostIncl.) |
Annual Tuition |
Master's Program |
$549 | 35 | $19,215 | $11,529 |
Doctoral Program - Business |
$749 | 66 | $49,434 | $12,359 |
Doctoral Program - IT |
$749 | 60 | $44,940 | $11,235 |
Cheapest Day 1 CPT Universities in the East
Monroe College
CPT Programs |
Per Credit Hour |
Total Tuition (CPT cost Incl.) |
Annual Tuition |
1st Master's |
$944 | $38,112 | $16,336 |
2nd Master's |
$580 | $25,908 | $11,104 |
Advanced Certificate |
$634 | $13,512 | $13,512 |
New England College
CPT Programs |
Per Credit Hour |
Credits |
Total Tuition (CPT cost Incl.) |
Annual Tuition |
MSDA |
$440 | 36 | $16,944 | $10,167 |
MS IT & Cybersecurity |
$440 | 36 | $16,944 | $10,167 |
MBA |
$440 | 40 | $18,704 | $9,352 |
MS IT & PM |
$440 | 40 | $18,704 | $9,352 |
*Programs are designed to be completed within different time frames, resulting in varying annual tuition costs. You can also calculate the base tuition by multiplying the per credit hour cost by the number of credits you plan to take each semester.
*NEC charges students $184 for miscellaneous fees per semester, which has been included in the total tuition listed above.
McDaneil College
CPT Programs |
Per Credit Hour |
Credits |
Total Tuition (CPT cost Incl.) |
Annual Tuition |
MS Data Analytics |
$689 | 30 | $20,670 | $10,335 |
Cheapest Day 1 CPT Universities in Midwest
Trine University
CPT Programs |
Per Credit Hour |
Total Credits |
Total Tuition (CPT Cost Incl.) |
Annual Tuition |
Master's Program |
$575 | 30 | $18,687.5 | $9,343 |
Doctor of IT |
$700 | 60 | $47,250 | $9,450 |
* CPT = 0.5 credit hour
*At Trine University, you have the option to take the summer semester off. There's no requirement to enroll in classes, yet you can still utilize CPT for work. This flexibility can extend the duration of the program and the use of CPT, allowing students to participate in the H1B lottery twice during their Master's program.
University of the Cumberlands
CPT Programs |
Per Credit Hour |
Total Credits |
Total Tuition (CPT CostIncl.) |
Annual Tuition |
Master's Program |
$549 | 35 | $19,215 | $11,529 |
Doctoral Program - Business |
$749 | 66 | $49,434 | $12,359 |
Doctoral Program - IT |
$749 | 60 | $44,940 | $11,235 |
Cheapest Day 1 CPT Universities in the South
Trine University
CPT Programs |
Per Credit Hour |
Total Credits |
Total Tuition (CPT Cost Incl.) |
Annual Tuition |
Master's Program |
$575 | 30 | $18,687.5 | $9,343 |
Doctor of IT |
$700 | 60 | $47,250 | $9,450 |
* CPT = 0.5 credit hour
*At Trine University, you have the option to take the summer semester off. There's no requirement to enroll in classes, yet you can still utilize CPT for work. This flexibility can extend the duration of the program and the use of CPT, allowing students to participate in the H1B lottery twice during their Master's program.
University of the Cumberlands
CPT Programs |
Per Credit Hour |
Total Credits |
Total Tuition (CPT CostIncl.) |
Annual Tuition |
Master's Program |
$549 | 35 | $19,215 | $11,529 |
Doctoral Program - Business |
$749 | 66 | $49,434 | $12,359 |
Doctoral Program - IT |
$749 | 60 | $44,940 | $11,235 |
Cheapest Day 1 CPT Universities in the US
| US Locations | Day 1 CPT Universities | Tuition Per Year | Price Per Credit | Total Credits | Total Cost | Average Length (in years) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Coast | New England College | $9,352 - $10,167 | $440 | 36 - 40 | $16,944 - $18,704 | 2 |
| West, Central | Trine University | $9,375 | $575 | 30 | $18,687 | 2 |
| East | McDaniel College | $10,125 | $675 | 30 | $20,250 | 2 |
| Central | University of Cumberlands | $11,529 | $549 | 35 | $17,500 | 1.5 |
| West Coast | Sofia University | $9,360 - $10,920 | $520 | 36 - 48 | $18,720 - $24,960 | 2 - 2.5 |
| West Coast | Humphreys University | $9,400 | $430 | 56 | $21,000 | 2.5 |
The Most Affordable Day 1 CPT Universities in the US are:
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