2025 Edition

Day 1 CPT Universities

Welcome to your ultimate self-guide to Day 1 CPT Universities! If you're curious about what Day 1 CPT universities are, who they are best suited for, the top 21 institutions offering these programs, or the costs involved, you're in the right place.

If you don't want to read through the long page, complete the form today! Our consultants, who were once international students themselves, will offer a free consultation and a customized list of Day 1 CPT universities suited to your requirements. Interested in learning more about Day 1 CPT? Explore our detailed Day 1 CPT FAQ for all the information!

What Are Day 1 CPT Universities?

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 traditional 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.

Who Should Apply to Day 1 CPT Universities

International students or non-immigration visa holders who encounter these situations may consider applying to Day 1 CPT universities:

OPT Ending Soon International students who are looking to stay in the US and enhance their job opportunities can explore enrolling in accredited Day 1 CPT universities. This allows them to continue their internship while pursuing an advanced degree.

OPT Unemployment Days Exhausted

Many international students aspire to remain in the U.S. for work experience post-graduation, but the fluctuating job market can make this challenging. With only 90 days to find employment, the risk of exhausting your OPT unemployment days is real, as is the possibility of being laid off during OPT employment.

In such situations, Day 1 CPT universities offer a viable solution. With flexible enrollment periods, these institutions allow you to pause your job search, further your education, and, once you have a job offer, secure CPT work authorization to continue your career in the US.

OPT STEM Extension Failed In contrast to OPT, the OPT STEM extension comes with additional requirements such as minimum wage, e-verified employers, and job descriptions aligned with your degree. Some international students faced challenges when their original OPT ended and their STEM OPT extension application was not approved, leading to a 60-day grace period. For those seeking new opportunities with more qualified employers, enrolling in day 1 CPT universities could be a viable option. Transition seamlessly from OPT to Day 1 CPT and utilize CPT as a work authorization to advance your career in the US, with fewer limitations and restrictions compared to STEM OPT.

H1B Not Selected Whether you're navigating the OPT to H1B transition or exploring job opportunities in the US from abroad, recent H1B lottery data shows a challenging 75% chance of success on your first attempt. However, don't despair - Day 1 CPT presents a viable alternative for those eager to gain work experience in the US. By enrolling in a Day 1 CPT university, you not only pursue an advanced degree but also leverage F1 visa CPT work authorization to legally work in the US.

H1B Layoffs When H1B visa holders face layoffs, they have a 60-day window to secure a new employer. Finding a job can be challenging, especially one that offers H1B sponsorship. If you have built you career in the US and wish to continue your professional journey, transitioning from an H1B to an F1 status and enrolling in a Day 1 CPT university could be a viable option. By pursuing a more advanced degree, you can also obtain CPT work authorization with the right employer. If prioritizing work experience over further education, transitioning back to an H1B status mid-study might be a consideration. Day 1 CPT universities offer a solution for those navigating visa status uncertainties while seeking to blend academic learning with real-world experience.

H4 Without EAD

If you find yourself here because a family member is on an H1B visa, you may be eligible for an H4 visa. With an H4 visa, you can apply for an EAD card once the primary H1B visa holder begins their green card application process and has their I-140 approved. Having an H4 EAD card allows you the freedom to pursue various job opportunities as your work authorization is independent of your employers. Transitioning between jobs is also simplified with an H4 EAD card. However, obtaining one can be a lengthy process, typically taking 1.5 to 2 years for the H1B visa holder to complete the PERM and I-140 application. Some H4 visa holders who wish to contribute financially to their family or kickstart their career in the US sooner may opt to enroll in Day 1 CPT universities to utilize CPT work authorization and explore internship opportunities while pursuing a US degree simultaneously.

H4 Grace Period Exhausted The H4 visa is subject to strict regulations based on the primary H1B holder's status. If the H1B holder is laid off or decides to divorce an H4 visa holder, the H4 visa holder may also risk losing their legal status in the US. In the event of a layoff, the H4 holder is granted a 60-day grace period. However, in the case of a divorce, once the divorce is finalized, the H4 holder will immediately lose their status and be required to leave the country. Some H4 visa holders may seek to transition out of their dependent status. In such instances, they may explore changing their status from H4 to F1 by enrolling in universities that allow for day 1 CPT, enabling them to work while pursuing their studies in the US. This option also serves as a safety net for the primary H1B holder in the event of a layoff, as they can then apply for an F2 dependent visa to remain in the US legally.

I-20 Reinstatement

International students often face challenges that domestic students may not encounter, such as the risk of losing their legal status if they are unable to fulfill their student obligations. Adapting to a new environment in the US can be difficult for some international students, leading to a drop in GPA or even expulsion from certain schools. In such situations, students are left with limited time to take action, potentially jeopardizing their studies in the US. Fortunately, Day 1 CPT universities offer multiple intakes throughout the year, providing a valuable option for students seeking to reinstate their I-20 status.

Day 1 CPT Universities Map

Day 1 CPT Universities on the West Coast

Westcliff University

📍Location: Irvine, CA
🗂️ Programs: MBA (STEM), MSCS (STEM), MSEM(STEM), MSIT (STEM), DBA (STEM), MA TESOL
💰 Program Tuition: $28,620（Master）/$51,300 (DBA)
⏱️ Program Duration: 1- 4 years depending on the program
🔺 On-site Visit: 1 / month
🔹 CPT Renewal: Every Semester

Sofia University

📍Location: Palo Alto, CA; Cost Mesa, CA
🗂️ Programs: MAB, MSCS (STEM)
💰 Program Tuition: $20,280 - $20,450
⏱️ Program Duration: 2 years
🔺 On-site Visit: 1 / month
🔹 CPT Renewal: Every Semester
💸 Scholarship: Application Fee Waiver & Referral Bonus Available if apply through CPTDog

CIAM

📍 Location: Alhambra, CA
🗂️ Programs: MBA
💰 Program Tuition: $24,000
⏱️ Program Duration: 2 years
🔺 On-site Visit: 1 / Semester
🔹 CPT Renewal: Every Semester
💸 Scholarship: Application Fee Waiver & Referral Bonus Available if apply through CPTDog

University of the Cumberlands

📍 Location: Kentifield, CA
🗂️ Programs: EMBA, MSIT, MSPM, MSISS, MSAI, MSCE, Ph.D. in IT, Ph.D. in Business, Ph.D. in Leadership, etc
💰 Program Tuition: $17,500 - $46200
⏱️ Program Duration: 20 months - Master | 3-4 years - PhD
🔺 On-site Visit: 1 / Semester
🔹 CPT Renewal: Every Semester
💸 Scholarship: Application Fee Waiver & Referral Bonus Available if apply through CPTDog

Campbellsville University

📍 Locations: Lathrop, CA；Costa Mesa, CA；
🗂️ Programs: PMBA | IT Management | CS | CS -Cloud Computing | Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
💰 Program Tuition: $16,500 -$19,800
⏱️ Program Duration: 20-24 months
🔺 On-Site Visit: 1 weekend / Semester
💸 Scholarship: Application Fee Waiver & Referral Bonus Available if apply through CPTDog

Humphreys University

📍 Location: Stockton, CA
🗂️ Programs: MBA-IT
💰 Program Tuition: $24,500
⏱️ Program Duration: 2.5 years
🔺 On-Site Visit: 1 weekend / Semester
💸 Scholarship: Application Fee Wavier

Day 1 CPT Universities in the Midwest

Ottawa University

📍 Location: Brookfield, WI; Overland Park, KS
🗂️ Programs: MBA, MSBA[STEM], MS-Engineering Management[STEM], MS-Information Studies[STEM]
💰 Program Tuition: $32,220 - $49,725
⏱️ Program Duration: 1-3 years depending on how you arrange courses
🔺 On-Site Visit: 1 / Semester
🔹 CPT Renewal: Every Year
💸 Scholarship: Application Fee Wavier

Campbellsville University

📍 Locations: Campbellsville, KY; Louisville, KY; Harrodsburg, KY; Elgin, IL
🗂️ Programs: PMBA | IT Management | CS | CS -Cloud Computing | Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
💰 Program Tuition: $16,500 -$19.800
⏱️ Program Duration: 20-24 months
🔺 On-Site Visit: 1 weekend / Semester
💸 Scholarship: Application Fee Waiver & Referral Bonus Available if apply through CPTDog

Day 1 CPT Universities in the South

Westcliff University

📍Location: Miami, FL
🗂️ Programs: MBA (STEM), MSCS (STEM), MSEM(STEM), MSIT (STEM), DBA (STEM), MA TESOL
💰 Program Tuition: $28,620（Master）/$51,300 (DBA)
⏱️ Program Duration: 1- 4 years depending on the program
🔺 On-site Visit: 1 / month
🔹 CPT Renewal: Every Semester

Tennesse Wesleyan University

📍 Location: Knoxville, TN
🗂️ Programs: EMBA | MS Business Analytics (STEM) | MS Project Management
💰 Program Tuition: $18,000
⏱️ Program Duration: 1- 2 years
🔺 On-site Visit: 1 / Semester
🔹 CPT Renewal: Every Semester

National Louis University

📍Location: Tampa, FL
🗂️ Programs: DBA, MS Business Data Analytics(STEM)
💰 Program Tuition: $23,700 - $49,920
⏱️ Program Duration: 15 months - MSDA | 3.5- 4 years - DBA
🔺 On-site Visit: 1 / Semester
🔹 CPT Renewal: Every Semester

Texas Wesleyan University

📍Location: Fort Worth, TX
🗂️ Programs: MBA
💰 Program Tuition: $30,600
⏱️ Program Duration: 15 months
🔺 On-site Visit: 1 / Semester
🔹 CPT Renewal: Every Semester

McDaniel College

📍Location: Westminster, MD
🗂️ Programs: MS Data Analytics
💰 Program Tuition: $20,250
⏱️ Program Duration: 2 years
🔺 On-site Visit: 1 / Semester
🔹 CPT Renewal: Every Year

DBU

📍Location: Dallas, TX
🗂️ Programs: MS IT, MS Management, MA Leadership, MBA
💰 Program Tuition: $45,756 - $51,476
⏱️ Program Duration: 2 - 4 years
🔺 On-site Visit: 1 / two weeks
🔹 CPT Renewal: Every Year

University of the Cumberlands

📍 Location: Irving, TX
🗂️ Programs: EMBA, MSIT, MSPM, MSISS, MSAI, MSCE, Ph.D. in IT, Ph.D. in Business, Ph.D. in Leadership, etc
💰 Program Tuition: $17,500 - $46,200
⏱️ Program Duration: 20 months - Master | 3-4 years - PhD
🔺 On-site Visit: 1 / Semester
🔹 CPT Renewal: Every Semester
💸 Scholarship: Application Fee Waiver & Referral Bonus Available if apply through CPTDog

Day 1 CPT Universities on the East Coast

Monroe University

📍Location: New Rochelle, NY
🗂️ Programs: MBA, MSCS [STEM], MS Data Science [STEM], Data Science Certificate Program
💰 Program Tuition: $25,908 - $38,112
⏱️ Program Duration: 1-2 year
🔺 On-site Visit: 1 / month
🔹 CPT Renewal: Every Semester

Harrisburg University

📍Location: Harrisburg, PA
🗂️ Programs: MS Analytics, MSCIS, MS Healthcare Informatics, MSPM, Others
💰 Program Tuition: $35,880
⏱️ Program Duration: 2 year
🔺 On-site Visit: 1 / month
🔹 CPT Renewal: Every Year

New England College

📍Location: Henniker, NH
🗂️ Programs: Executive MSDA, Executive MBA, MSIT, MSPM
💰 Program Tuition: $17,952, $19,800
⏱️ Program Duration: 20 months - 2 years
🔺 On-site Visit: 1 / Semester
🔹 CPT Renewal: Every Semester

Curry College

📍Location: Boston, MA
🗂️ Programs: MBA
💰 Program Tuition: $30,960
⏱️ Program Duration: 1-2 years
🔺 On-site Visit: 1 / semester
🔹 CPT Renewal: Every Semester

Day 1 CPT Universities FAQ

Are Day 1 CPT Universities Legit?

There is no official term "day 1 CPT universities." It's a phrase used by international students to refer to schools offering programs with a CPT component. These institutions, like New England College and Monroe University, primarily serve local undergraduate students. Programs with CPT options make up only a tiny part of their offerings.

How much do most day 1 CPT universities cost?

A master's program typically costs between $18,000 and $24,000. Tuition depends on the school's location, its funding, and the administrative resources invested in the program. For the CPT program, one of the school's expenses is the administrative support provided to students, ensuring transfer students get their I-20 transferred on time and those needing CPT receive their documentation quickly. These services are not as crucial or time-sensitive for traditional programs.

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

According to our internal data, 70% of our students say tuition is their top concern, followed by location and accreditation. We understand that budget is important when choosing a program, but based on our experience, accreditation and location should be prioritized over tuition to avoid future USCIS issues. Enrollment windows are also crucial to maintaining your status, so consider all these factors.

We offer a DIY school selection tool that provides a shortlist in 30 seconds and sends you information and application waiver codes. Try it now! If you would like to speak to someone, our consultations are free.

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?

Best Day1 CPT Programs on the East Coast?

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?

The processing time for your application depends on the program and your current status. If you're a transfer student with an active SEVIS in the US, the process is typically quick, taking just 3-5 business days if you meet the criteria and have all your documents ready. For new students, it might take longer due to document verification. If you're in a hurry, contact us. As official partners of these schools, we can help prescreen your application and expedite the process.

Day 1 CPT Universities

What Are Day 1 CPT Universities?

Are they different from traditional universities?

Yes:

No:

Who Should Apply to Day 1 CPT Universities

Day 1 CPT Universities Map

Explore Day 1 CPT Universities

Day 1 CPT Universities on the West Coast

Day 1 CPT Universities in the Midwest

Day 1 CPT Universities in the South

Day 1 CPT Universities on the East Coast

Day 1 CPT Universities Cost

Cost Calculator

Day 1 CPT Enrollment Windows (2025 -2026)

New England College - Mar

Westcliff University - Mar

Harrisburg University - Mar

University of the Potomac - Mar

Monroe University - Apr

Sofia University - Apr

University of the Potomac - Apr

Westcliff University - May

National Louis University - May

New England College - May

Harrisburg University - May

Monroe University - Jun

Westcliff University - Jun

National Louis University - Jun

Harrisburg University - Jul

New England College - Jul

Sofia University - Jul

Humphreys University - Jul

University of the Potomac - Jul

CIAM - Aug

Ottawa University - Aug

Harrisburg University - Aug

McDaneil College - Aug

Westcliff University - Sep

National Louis University - Sep

Monroe University - Sep

New England College - Sep

Sofia University - Sep

Humphreys University - Sep

National Louis University - Sep

CIAM - Oct

Westcliff University - Oct

Harrisburg University - Oct

Ottawa University - Oct

New England College - Nov

Day 1 CPT Universities FAQ

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