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Pick a university in each column. Swap or remove any column and every row updates instantly.

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Comparison criteria

What to compare before you choose

Cost matters, but it’s only one part of the decision. Look at these six things for every university on your shortlist.

  • Total tuition

    Compare the full program cost, not only per-credit rates. Fees, travel and housing are extra.

  • Location & campus visits

    How often you must be on campus and how far you’ll travel each semester.

  • Day 1 CPT programs

    Check that the degree fits your field and whether it is STEM-designated.

  • Length & CPT renewal

    How long you’ll study and how often your CPT must be renewed.

  • Accreditation

    Choose accredited, SEVP-certified universities that can enroll F-1 students.

  • Admission requirements

    GPA, English test scores and transfer rules differ from one university to the next.

Common questions

FAQs

Common questions about comparing Day 1 CPT universities and programs.

Up to three. Tap Add to compare on any university card. When your shortlist is full, remove one university to add another, and the table updates right away.

Not always. Tuition is only one part of the total cost. Fees, travel to required on-campus sessions, housing and the length of the program can change what you really pay. A program that fits your field, timeline and CPT needs may be worth more than a small difference in price.

We gather tuition, program, location and campus-visit details from each university’s published information and review it regularly. Details can change between updates, so confirm current costs, dates and requirements with the university’s admissions office before you apply.

It may be possible through another SEVIS transfer, but it isn’t simple. A transfer can interrupt your CPT, because the new university must authorize CPT before you can keep working, and some schools limit transfers or first-term CPT. Talk to your current DSO and the new school before you make plans.

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