Day 1 CPT Universities

Compare universities, graduate programs, tuition, on-campus attendance requirements, and enrollment options to find an academic program that fits your goals.

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Understanding CPT Programs

Schools Offer Hybrid CPT Programs

Day 1 CPT universities are U.S. universities offering qualifying academic programs that may allow eligible F-1 international students to begin Curricular Practical Training during their first academic term.
Some offer hybrid or low-residency graduate programs that combine coursework with required practical training, subject to curricular requirements and DSO authorization.

CPT-Integrated Programs

Academic programs that combine classroom learning with practical training directly related to a student's major. Eligible F-1 students may qualify for CPT during their first semester if the curriculum requires immediate practical training and their DSO authorizes it.

Traditional Academic Programs

Academic programs that primarily focus on classroom instruction, research, and theoretical learning. Internships or practical training may be available later in the program, depending on the curriculum and university requirements.

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Who May Consider a Day 1 CPT Program?

Explore common situations where international students and other visa holders may consider further education through a CPT-integrated academic program.

Eligibility Depends on Your Individual Circumstances

These situations are provided for educational purposes and do not automatically qualify someone for Day 1 CPT. Eligibility depends on valid F-1 status, the academic program’s curricular requirements, the proposed practical training, and authorization from the university’s Designated School Official (DSO).

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Search by location, program, tuition and campus attendance to compare CPT-integrated programs that fit your goals and budget.

 

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Day 1 CPT Universities Cost

Most Day 1 CPT programs range between $20,000 and $40,000, making them generally more affordable than traditional master's programs. Additionally, the ability to work while studying can help ease the financial burden. If cost is a major consideration for you, we've developed a Day 1 CPT cost calculator for our students. Simply select your school and program, and it will show you your estimated monthly expenses.

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Upcoming Intakes

CPT-Integrated Program Enrollment Windows

Enrollment windows are organized by program start date. Application deadlines and available intakes vary by university and program and may change throughout the academic year.

A program start date is not automatically a student’s CPT start date. CPT may begin only after the student meets the university’s eligibility requirements, receives CPT authorization from the Designated School Official (DSO), and has the authorized employment dates listed on the Form I-20.

Filter by month
School Program start CPT start Apply by
New England College Mar 15, 2027 Mar 15, 2027 Not Listed
Westcliff University Mar 1, 2027 Mar 1, 2027 Not Listed
Harrisburg University Feb 20, 2027 Feb 20, 2027 Not Listed
Monroe University Apr 28, 2027 N/A Not Listed
Westcliff University May 3, 2027 May 3, 2027 Not Listed

Questions Answered

Day 1 CPT Universities FAQ

Find answers to common questions about CPT, admissions, and university policies.

Are Day 1 CPT Universities Legit?

Yes, universities that offer programs commonly referred to as “Day 1 CPT” can be legitimate U.S. institutions. However, “Day 1 CPT university” is not an official government classification. It is an informal term used for universities with certain graduate programs that may allow eligible F-1 students to begin Curricular Practical Training (CPT) during their first academic term.

Students should verify that a university is SEVP-certified to enroll F-1 students and review its current accreditation status. SEVP certification can be checked through the Department of Homeland Security’s Study in the States School Search, while accreditation can be verified through the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs.

A university’s accreditation or SEVP certification does not automatically mean that every program qualifies for first-term CPT. CPT must be an integral part of the student’s established curriculum, and graduate students may receive CPT authorization during their first semester only when their program requires immediate participation in practical training. CPT must also be authorized by the university’s Designated School Official (DSO) before employment begins.

How much do most day 1 CPT universities cost?

Tuition varies significantly by university and program. For the 2026–2027 academic year, many master’s programs at universities featured in this guide cost approximately $17,000 to $33,000 in base tuition, although some programs may cost more.

Students should also consider additional expenses such as university fees, practicum or internship fees, health insurance, books, and travel or accommodation for required on-campus residency sessions.

Because tuition and fees can change each academic year, students should check the university’s current tuition schedule and compare the total program cost rather than relying only on the advertised per-credit tuition rate.

How should I choose which day 1 CPT school to go to?

When comparing Day 1 CPT universities, consider the academic program first. The degree should fit your educational and career goals, and any CPT employment must be directly related to your major field of study.

You should also compare the university’s accreditation, SEVP certification, CPT eligibility requirements, tuition and fees, campus location, required in-person attendance, program start dates, and practical training structure.

Before enrolling, confirm with the university’s international student office when you may become eligible for CPT and whether practical training is a required part of the specific program you are considering. CPT must be authorized by the school’s Designated School Official (DSO) before employment begins.

If two programs are academically suitable, factors such as total cost, residency travel expenses, enrollment timing, and location can help you decide which option is the better fit.

How much homework do I have to do after enrolling at a Day 1 CPT University?

Depending on the school, program, and your prior knowledge, you can expect an additional 2-4 hours of work for this program alongside your internship.

Which Day 1 CPT universities is the most popular one?

We recommend choosing the program that best fits your needs rather than following others. However, if you’re curious, most of our students enroll at Westcliff University because it offers more programs, campuses, and enrollment periods. CIAM is also a great option, though it’s less mentioned due to its limited offerings, currently only MBA and Data Analysis.

Best Day 1 CPT universities on the West Coast?
  • Westcliff University
  • CIAM
  • Humphreys University
Which CPT-integrated programs are available on the East Coast?
  • Harrisburg University
  • Monroe University
  • New England College
Which CPT-integrated programs are available on the East Coast?
  • Harrisburg University
  • Monroe University
  • New England College
Will the school help me find an internship if I enroll in their CPT program?

Most Day 1 CPT schools have career centers that can help you update your resume and collaborate with local companies to share job openings. However, they only provide guidance; arranging internships is not included. Students typically need to secure their own internships before applying for CPT authorization from the school.

How many times do I have to go back to campus to attend in-person classes?

As an F-1 student, your main responsibility is to study. While internships offer learning opportunities, attending in-person classes is crucial, especially from a USCIS and SEVP standpoint. Most Day 1 CPT schools require students to visit campus once a month or per semester, though some may ask for bi-weekly attendance. Due to the limited residency nature of these programs, it’s vital to attend on-site classes punctually and maintain perfect attendance.

How fast can I secure an I-20 form Day 1 CPT Universities?

Form I-20 processing times vary by university, application type, and the student’s circumstances. There is no standard processing time for all Day 1 CPT universities.

For an initial Form I-20, the university must first admit the student and review the required documentation, which may include financial evidence and other materials needed for F-1 issuance. For an F-1 transfer student, the new university generally cannot issue the transfer-pending Form I-20 until the SEVIS record has been released to the new school.

Some universities may process an I-20 within several business days after all requirements are completed, while others may take one to two weeks or longer. Students with an upcoming program start date should complete their application and SEVIS transfer requirements as early as possible and confirm the current processing timeline directly with the university.