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19 Universities Offer Day 1 CPT in the US - 2024 Edition
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Quick Overview
▪️ Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a form of work authorization based on the F1 visa, issued by the school’s DSO, bypassing USCIS.
▪️ Some universities allow immediate CPT as it is integrated into their curriculum, emphasizing employment training over purely academic learning.
▪️ With the current employment-based immigration process selecting only 25% of H1B applicants, Day 1 CPT has become a legitimate and popular backup plan for international students who want to remain in the U.S. after their OPT ends.
▪️ Institutions like Westcliff, Harrisburg, Monroe, and others offer CPT from day one.
What is Day 1 CPT?
Day 1 CPT allows F-1 visa students to begin Curricular Practical Training (CPT) from the first day of their academic program in the United States, unlike the typical scenario where students must wait a year to become eligible. Universities offering Day 1 CPT enable students to start working in a field related to their major immediately upon starting their studies. This is particularly appealing for students seeking to gain practical work experience in the U.S. from the outset of their academic journey.
The Role of Day 1 CPT in the U.S. Immigration System
The U.S. immigration system is fraught with challenges, particularly for international students. The quota and lottery-based systems often leave many without a clear path to long-term work visas or permanent residency. In this context, Day 1 CPT (Curricular Practical Training) emerges as a crucial tool, filling gaps and serving as a valuable recruitment asset for educational institutions.
Why is Day 1 CPT Important?
Understanding the significance of Day 1 CPT requires a look at the typical post-graduation journey for F1 students. Upon graduation, students can utilize OPT (Optional Practical Training), which grants 12 months of work authorization in their field of study. STEM majors can extend this by 24 months, giving them up to three years to work in the U.S. and build relationships with employers, which is vital for future sponsorship.
However, transitioning from OPT to a long-term work visa like the H1B is challenging. Despite its design to accommodate university graduates, the H1B visa is limited by an annual cap of 65,000, plus an additional 20,000 for those with U.S. master's degrees or higher. With over 470,000 applications for these 85,000 slots in recent years, the chances of securing an H1B are slim, leaving many qualified graduates without options.
The Most Viable Alternative
For those who do not secure an H1B visa, other options exist but are limited and often impractical for the majority of international students. Nationality-specific visas, such as the TN for Canadians and Mexicans or the E3 for Australians, are only available to specific nationalities. The O1 visa, which is for individuals with extraordinary abilities, is typically out of reach for recent graduates. Entrepreneurial students might consider the E2 visa, but it is only available to nationals of countries with qualifying treaties, excluding major sources of international students like China and India.
In contrast, Day 1 CPT offers a highly viable alternative for over 90% of international students who miss out on the H1B lottery. It allows students to continue working while advancing their education. Unlike OPT, which requires an application process and waiting period, CPT can be authorized immediately by the school’s Designated School Official (DSO) without USCIS involvement, provided it is integral to the student’s curriculum.
Day 1 CPT does not require third-party sponsorship like the L visa, nor does it demand extraordinary excellence as the NIW. It doesn't require a significant investment like the EB5 visa, nor does it restrict eligibility based on nationality like the E3 visa. Additionally, it doesn't necessitate published papers like the O1/O2 visas.
To be valid, Day 1 CPT must be part of a graduate program that requires immediate participation in practical training. This is often justified by compelling circumstances, such as those in medical or technical fields, making it a practical and accessible option for the vast majority of international students.
Day 1 CPT Universities and Day 1 CPT Program Settings
Traditionally, most universities do not grant CPT during the initial semesters of study. Generally, F1 students become eligible for practical training after completing one academic year. However, if the curriculum requires it, F1 students can be authorized for practical training right from the start, as long as the CPT authorization must align with the student’s academic degree objectives.
Source: USCIS
When Rules Bend: The Exceptions
While these guidelines shape standard CPT practices, certain situations allow for deviations. Some courses may necessitate CPT during the initial semesters. In specific cases, graduate students might not have to wait an entire academic year before beginning practical training.
On-Site Class Requirements
As F1 students, attending on-site classes is mandatory, as it supports the purpose of granting an F1 visa to enter the U.S. However, the regulations do not specify the exact number of hours or frequency of campus visits required for in-person classes. This ambiguity allows for flexibility in making Day 1 CPT programs legal.
Requirements for Students
Despite the lack of specific guidance, certain general requirements must be met for international students to be eligible for an I-20 and an F1 visa. These include:
- Taking no fewer than 6 credits per semester (for master's level or above), with only one distance learning (online) course allowed.
- Completing homework and maintaining a satisfactory GPA.
- Not leaving the United States for prolonged periods without authorization, etc.
Requirements for Universities
Educational institutions considering Day 1 CPT programs must ensure their curricula support practical training as an integral component. This involves:
- Listing CPT programs in course catalogs.
- Ensuring on-campus presence requirements are met.
- Providing academic deliverables that integrate practical and theoretical learning.
- Obtaining detailed letters from employers outlining the job’s relation to the student’s major.
USCIS Scrutiny and RFEs
Although Day 1 CPT programs, when designed within USCIS guidelines, are completely legal, historical abuses have led to increased scrutiny. USCIS tends to take an "extra look" at F1 visas issued from universities offering Day 1 CPT programs. This doesn't mean enrolling in a Day 1 CPT program will cause problems or reduce your chances of obtaining an F1 visa or OPT approval post-program. However, it does mean you need to ensure the school you choose is prepared for scrutiny, especially when transitioning from F1 to H1B status. Proper documentation and a well-structured program can help address requests for evidence (RFEs) effectively.
A notable case in 2019 involving a fake university in Michigan highlighted the risks associated with Day 1 CPT abuse. Federal agents created the University of Farmington as part of an immigration investigation to identify students not complying with visa regulations. The university offered Day 1 CPT enrollment without requiring coursework or class attendance, attracting many students. However, it was later revealed that the university was a sham, with no faculty, curriculum, or academic obligations, and its sole purpose was to grant fraudulent F1 visas.
Choosing the Right Day 1 CPT Program
To avoid such pitfalls, be extra careful when choosing a Day 1 CPT school and program. Here are some essential considerations:
- Accreditation: Ensure the university you choose is accredited.
- Program Alignment: The program should align with USCIS requirements.
- Administrative Support: The school should have a strong administrative support system to help you deal with USCIS scrutiny when necessary.
- Relevant Major: Choose a major that closely relates to the internship or job you wish to participate in during the program but is also distinct from your previous degree.
- Proximity: The school's location should be close to your residence and internship site.
- Clear Requirements: The school should have clear requirements for on-site attendance, homework, and exams.
By carefully selecting a reputable Day 1 CPT program and institution, you can enhance your educational experience and career prospects while ensuring compliance with immigration regulations.
19 Universities That Offer CPT from Day 1: Accredited and Affordable
The following 16 universities allow F1 students to begin their CPT on or near Day 1, making them an excellent choice for higher education in the US:
| School Name | Locations | Day 1 CPT Programs |
Westcliff University |
Irvin, California | Miami, Florida | https://cptdog.com/day-1-cpt-universities/westcliff#master |
Monroe College |
New Rochelle, New York | https://cptdog.com/day-1-cpt-universities/monroe#master |
Harrisburg University |
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania | https://cptdog.com/day-1-cpt-universities/harrisburg-university |
California Institute of Advanced Management |
Alhambra, California | https://cptdog.com/day-1-cpt-universities/ciam#mba |
New England College |
Henniker, New Hampshire | https://cptdog.com/day-1-cpt-universities/nec#programs |
Sant Peter's University |
Jersey City, New Jersey | https://cptdog.com/day-1-cpt-universities/spu |
McDaneil College |
Westminster, Maryland | https://cptdog.com/day-1-cpt-universities/mcdaniel#program |
Humphreys University |
Stockton, California | https://cptdog.com/day-1-cpt-universities/humphreys#program |
National Louis University |
Chicago, Illinois | Tempa, Florida | https://cptdog.com/day-1-cpt-universities/nlu#msba |
Ottawa University |
Ottawa, Kansas | Phoenix, Arizona | https://cptdog.com/day-1-cpt-universities/ottawa |
Sofia University |
Palo Alto, California | Costa Mesa California | https://cptdog.com/day-1-cpt-universities/sofia#master |
University of the Potomac |
Washington D.C. | https://cptdog.com/day-1-cpt-universities/potomac#master |
Campbellsville University |
Campbellsville, Kentucky | https://www.campbellsville.edu/ |
University of the Cumberlands |
Williamsburg, Kentucky | Seattle, Washington, etc. | https://cptdog.com/day-1-cpt-universities/cumberlands#programs |
Dallas Baptism University |
Dallas, Texas | https://cptdog.com/day-1-cpt-universities/dbu#programs |
Indiana Wesleyan University |
Marion, Indiana | https://www.indwes.edu/ |
Alliant International University |
Phoenix, Arizona | https://www.alliant.edu/ |
Sullivan University |
Lexington, Kentucky | https://cptdog.com/day-1-cpt-universities/sullivan#programs |
Avila University |
Kansas City, Missouri | https://online.avila.edu/ |
Talk to an Advisor
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Top Affordable Day 1 CPT Universities in the U.S. (2024 edition)
Below, we will explore the top Day 1 CPT schools in more detail.
Westcliff University
Situated in Irvine, CA, Westcliff University offers Day 1 CPT in MBA and other programs. This university is popular for providing flexibility to international students, with both online and in-person classes. Westcliff University is also one of few that designed programs allows initial F1 students to use CPT as a work authorization at the beginning of the program once they arrived U.S.
- Location: Irvine, California / Santa Monica, California / Miami, Florida / Orlando, Florida
- Programs: MBA (STEM), MSCS (STEM), MSEM(STEM), MSIT (STEM), DBA (STEM), MA TESOL
- Tuition: $28,620 (Master) / $53,700 (DBA)
- Duration: 1- 4 years depending on the program
- On-Site Visit: Once a semester
- CPT Renewal: Every Semester
Harrisburg University
Located in Harrisburg, PA, this university offers various STEM programs, particularly in the IT and data analytics fields. It’s well-regarded among international students due to its Day 1 CPT options, though being one of the most expensive Day 1 CPT universities. Harrisburg University does not provide the most popular MBA Day 1 CPT program, but it has an alternative, which is Project Management.
- Location: Harrisburg, PA
- Programs: MS Analytics, MSCIS, MS Healthcare Informatics, MS PM, and more.
- Tuition: $35,880 per program
- Duration: 2 years
- On-Site Visit: Once a month
- CPT Renewal: Annually
Monroe College
Monroe College, based in New Rochelle, NY, offers a variety of programs with Day 1 CPT for international students. Monroe College is a traditional university with a primary student body of local undergraduates and first-time international master's students. Their Day 1 CPT programs make up only a small portion of the total student population. Monroe College offers tuition discounts for F1 transfer students who already hold a master's degree from the US.
- Location: New Rochelle, NY
- Programs: MBA, MS CS (STEM), MS Data Science (STEM), Data Science Certificate Program
- Tuition: Estimated $11,910 – $18,192 per year
- Duration: 1-2 years
- On-Site Visit: Once a month
- CPT Renewal: Every Semester
New England College
Located in Henniker, NH, New England College offers "low residency executive programs" as part of its CPT offerings. These programs are designed for students with either a US degree or at least two years of US work experience, aiming to help international students integrate into the US job market more effectively. NEC is one of the most affordable Day 1 CPT universities and is only a 2-hour drive from Boston. Many students who work or reside in NYC or Boston choose NEC for their Day 1 CPT option.
- Location: Henniker, NH
- Programs: Executive MSDA, Executive MBA, MSIT, MSPM
- Tuition: $16,944-$18,704 per program
- Duration: 20 Months – 2 years
- On-Site Visit: 3-day long classes every semester, usually on weekends
- CPT Renewal: Every Semester
CIAM
Lcated in Alhambra, CA, the California Institute of Advanced Management (CIAM) is renowned for its MBA programs offering Day 1 CPT options. As a small school focused on manageable growth, CIAM receives positive feedback from students for maintaining strong personal relationships with administrative staff. Students consistently report timely processing of CPT applications and prompt responses to their inquiries.
- Location: Alhambra, CA
- Programs: MBA
- Tuition: $24,000
- Duration: 2 years
- On-Site Visit: 2 times per semester
- CPT Renewal: Every Semester
Humphreys University
Located in Stockton, CA, Humphreys University offers an MBA-IT program with Day 1 CPT, making it a great option for those working in the Bay Area or other Northern California cities. Humphreys is one of the most affordable options in the state. It is also a non-profit school, which is first master friendly.
- Location: Stockton, CA
- Programs: MBA-IT
- Tuition: $21,000
- Duration: 2.5 years
- On-Site Visit: 1 weekend per semester
Sofia University
Sofia University offers Day 1 CPT programs at two campuses: one in Costa Mesa and the more popular one in Palo Alto. The university provides both master's and doctoral level Day 1 CPT programs. Most students work in the tech industry in or near the Bay Area. Many students are recruited through a referral program. If you wish to use Day 1 CPT on-site as a networking opportunity, Sofia University is an excellent choice.
- Location: Palo Alto, CA; Cost Mesa, CA
- Programs: MAB, MBA-DA(STEM), MSCS (STEM), DBA
- Tuition: $20,280 – $25,480
- Duration: 2-3 years
- On-Site Visit: Once a month
- CPT Renewal: Every Semester
Ottawa University
Ottawa University has multiple campuses, with the most popular one being Phoenix, Arizona. Their Day 1 CPT options are valuable for students seeking a blend of academic and professional experience.
- Location: Brookfield, WI; Overland Park, KS; Phoenix, Arizona
- Programs: EMBA, DBA
- Tuition: $29,940 – $49.725 per program
- Duration: EMBA – 2 years; DBA – 3 years
- On-Site Visit: 2 times per semester
- CPT Renewal: Every Year
Saint Peter’s University
Based in Jersey City, NJ, this university is recognized for its programs in business analytics and data science. Their Day 1 CPT program is especially popular among tech-savvy international students. Although located in Jersey City, it is merely "a river away" from Manhattan, New York.
- Location: Jersey City, NJ
- Programs: MS Business Analytics, MS Data Science
- Tuition: $25,000 – $28,000 per program
- Duration: 15-20 months, depending on program and course selection
- On-Site Visit: 2 weekends per semester
- CPT Renewal: Every semester
National Louis University
With a campus located in the third largest city of the U.S., National Louis University attracted many students who work and live in or near Chicago. The university is known for its Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) program with Day 1 CPT, providing a comprehensive path for aspiring business leaders.
- Location: Tampa, FL
- Programs: DBA
- Tuition: $49,920
- Duration: 3.5 – 4 years
- On-Site Visit: Once per semester
- CPT Renewal: Every Semester
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