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1. Day 1 CPT Overviews
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows international students studying in the United States on an F-1 visa to gain practical experience directly related to their academic studies. Typically, CPT is only available after completing at least one academic year. However, "Day 1 CPT" refers to programs that permit students to start working immediately upon enrollment.
Is Day 1 CPT Legal?
Yes, Day 1 CPT is legal. USCIS allows international students to start CPT on day one if they enroll in programs that require practical training as part of the curriculum.
However, students must select reputable universities with legitimate CPT programs to avoid issues like immigration status violations, denial of future benefits, or visa application challenges.
Why Day 1 CPT?
Immediate Work Experience
Students can immediately gain practical experience relevant to their academic studies, enhancing their resume and future job opportunities. Learn more>
Financial Benefits
The ability to work from the start helps students offset living expenses and tuition costs, reducing financial pressures. Learn more>
Career Development
Gaining real-world experience from day one helps students build professional networks, develop practical skills, and improve their employability upon graduation. Learn more>
2. Who Should Choose Day 1 CPT?
OPT/STEM OPT Holders Facing Expiration
Students whose OPT or STEM OPT is ending and who were unsuccessful in the H-1B lottery can utilize Day 1 CPT to maintain their status and continue studying and working in the U.S.
Students Needing Urgent School Transfer
Those at risk of losing their current enrollment status due to dismissal or other emergencies can quickly transfer their SEVIS record to a Day 1 CPT program that offers flexible and immediate enrollment options.
Laid-off Professionals on H, L, or OPT Status
Professionals who have recently lost employment on an H-1B, L-1, or OPT visa and are struggling to find new jobs within their allowed unemployment period can use Day 1 CPT as a reliable Plan B to maintain their legal status.
Professionals Considering Career Change
Individuals with substantial professional experience looking for new opportunities in the U.S. can pursue Day 1 CPT programs to acquire new skills, qualifications, and U.S. work experience, facilitating a smoother career transition.
3. Choosing the Right Day 1 CPT University and Program
🚨 Factor 1
Verify the school's legitimacy and accreditation
Maintaining legal status while studying in the U.S. is crucial. Therefore, it's essential to choose a reputable school with national and regional accreditation.
In the U.S., regional accreditation is the highest standard for colleges. There are six regional accrediting bodies. When choosing a school, check the accreditation website for your region to verify the school's credentials.
- West: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Northwest: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- North: Higher Learning Commission
- Central: Middle States Association
- South: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- East: New England Association of Schools and Colleges
💼 Factor 2
Choose a major that aligns with your current / future job
According to immigration regulations, CPT work must be part of your degree program, meaning it should relate to your major. If not, even if your CPT application is approved by the university, your H-1B or green card application might face an RFE or be denied later.
It's important not to choose a degree program too similar to one you've already completed.
For example, if you have a master's in Data Science, selecting an MS in Data Analytics for your Day 1 CPT is not advisable. If you can't find a program directly related to your job, consider pursuing an MBA or DBA, as management skills are often essential in many roles.
💰Factor 3
Pay attention to tuition costs, transportation convenience, CPT renewal frequency, and academic workload.
When choosing a Day 1 CPT school, consider both financial and time costs:
Tuition Costs: Reputable Day 1 CPT schools have clear tuition standards, which you can compare when selecting a school.
Transportation Convenience: Choose a nearby school to save on travel time and costs. Since students must attend on-site classes regularly, check if the school is near an airport, or if train and bus services are convenient, or if you can drive to classes.
CPT Renewal Frequency: Schools have different CPT renewal requirements; some require renewal each semester, while others only once a year. Frequent renewals can be inconvenient, so if you prefer less frequent updates, choose a school with a lower renewal frequency.
Academic Workload: Heavy coursework can lower your GPA. A GPA below 3.0 might affect your CPT application and, in severe cases, may require transferring schools.
4. How to Apply for the University and Get Day 1 CPT?
Although the steps from applying to a university to starting work with Day 1 CPT are not complicated, they do require precise timing. It’s strongly recommended that you apply early (and get GoElite's 100% Free Premium Assistance).
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🧑🎓 For students currently on F-1 status (including OPT): Start your application at least 2 months in advance to minimize the gap between OPT and CPT.
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🧑🎓 For students not on F-1 status: Start your application at least 4 months in advance to allow sufficient time for visa processing.
Step 1: Research Schools and Majors
It’s important to carefully select a school that suits your location, major, and personal needs.
- If you need help with your application, you can click here to get a free application guide and visa advice.
- Alternatively, you can use this page for self school selection.
Step 2: Submit Your School Application
Once you confirmed the schools and majors, submit your application as soon as possible.
- Please follow GoElite Application Guide, all the application fees will be waived and you're also eligible for certain rewards and scholarship programs.
Step 3: Prepare for SEVIS Transfer After Admission
Before the new term starts, you must transfer your SEVIS record from your current school to the new CPT school.
⚠️ Note: Once SEVIS is transferred out of your original school, your OPT will immediately end, which may cause a gap in your work authorization. During this gap between the end of OPT and the start of CPT, you must request unpaid leave or go through a rehire process.
If you apply through GoElite, you’ll receive guidance on transferring SEVIS after being admitted.
Step 4: Apply for CPT
CPT applications usually take 1–2 weeks to process. You can apply before the official school start date. However, CPT will only be approved after your SEVIS is transferred to the new school.
Step 5: Receive CPT I-20
Once your CPT application is approved, you’ll receive an I-20 with CPT Authorization, which includes your CPT start date.
In most cases, the CPT Start Date is the program’s start date. However, some schools allow you to begin using CPT as early as one month before the official start.
Step 6: Start Classes and Work
Once the term officially begins, you can start working based on the Start Date listed on your CPT I-20. At the same time, you must attend classes, complete assignments, and participate in discussions as required by your school.
Remember: As an F-1 student, your primary responsibility is to study, and you must maintain your visa status.
⚠️ Important: Typically, only students with a GPA above 3.0 can continue to work under Full-Time CPT.
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5. Legal Compliance and Considerations
Students participating in Day 1 CPT must adhere strictly to immigration regulations and academic policies to maintain their legal status. Key points include:
Continuous Enrollment
Students must maintain full-time enrollment and actively participate in academic programs, meeting attendance and course requirements.
CPT Authorization
CPT employment must be directly related to the student's major field of study, and authorization must be obtained before starting any employment. CPT authorization must be renewed every semester or year (depends on university policies). Working without an updated CPT constitutes unauthorized employment.
Avoiding Status Violations
Ensure clear understanding and strict adherence to employment regulations, including work hours and roles as specified by CPT approval. If changing jobs, immediately inform your Designated School Official (DSO) and complete all necessary procedures to ensure continued compliance.
6. Resources and Further Reading
Recommended Day 1 CPT Reading
📰 Day 1 CPT Withdrawal Process: What to Do Before You Leave
📰 How Many Hours Do I Spend on Homework in Day 1 CPT Programs
📰 Why Are Day 1 CPT Program Costs So Different? Is a More Expensive Program Worth It?
📰 How to Handle U.S. Customs When Traveling on an F1 Visa with a Day 1 CPT Program
Get Free Help with Your Day 1 CPT Today!
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7. FAQs for Day 1 CPT
📚 General Understanding of Day 1 CPT
It’s called “Day 1” CPT because students enrolled in certain approved programs are authorized to begin Curricular Practical Training (CPT) employment immediately, starting from their first day of classes, rather than waiting for a full academic year.
Yes, Day 1 CPT programs are typically limited to graduate-level studies, especially master’s and doctoral programs. Undergraduate programs rarely qualify due to stricter CPT requirements and regulations at that level.
Yes! You may refer to “Is Day 1 CPT Legal?"
✅ Eligibility and Requirements
To be eligible for Day 1 CPT, a student must typically:
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Be enrolled full-time at an SEVP-certified institution whose curriculum explicitly integrates practical training from the beginning of the program.
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Have a job offer directly related to their academic major and receive school approval for CPT before starting employment.
Yes, you must have a valid job offer directly related to your academic major before applying for Day 1 CPT, as the CPT authorization is specifically tied to a particular employer and job role approved by your school.
But you don't need a job offer to apply for a "Day 1 CPT University".
Typically, international undergraduate students cannot participate in Day 1 CPT. CPT usually requires undergraduate students to complete at least one full academic year before starting practical training. Day 1 CPT programs are predominantly designed for graduate-level (master’s or doctoral) students, whose curricula explicitly include practical training from the outset.
Yes, most universities require students to maintain a minimum GPA—often around 3.0 or higher—to remain eligible for CPT. Exact GPA requirements vary by school and program, so it’s essential to verify the specifics with your institution’s international student office.
🛂 Visa Status and Transfers
Yes, you can switch from OPT to Day 1 CPT by enrolling in an eligible academic program offering immediate CPT authorization. However, this transition requires careful timing and coordination with your new school’s international office to ensure continuous legal F-1 status.
To transition from an H-4, L-2, or other dependent visa to a Day 1 CPT program, you need to:
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Apply and get accepted to a SEVP-certified university that offers Day 1 CPT.
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Receive an I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for F-1) from the school.
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File a change of status application (Form I-539) with USCIS if you’re changing status within the U.S., or enter the U.S. with an F-1 visa if applying from abroad.
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Once in F-1 status, you can begin your program and legally work under CPT authorization starting on Day 1, as approved by your school.
⚠️ Important: The change of status process can take several months, and working on CPT is only allowed after the change is approved or you re-enter the U.S. on an F-1 visa. Always consult with an immigration attorney or designated school official (DSO) before initiating the process.
Yes, you can transfer your CPT to another university, but there are important conditions:
- You must be accepted into a new SEVP-certified school that offers CPT (including Day 1 CPT, if applicable).
- The new school must issue a new I-20 and support CPT as part of its curriculum.
- You must follow SEVIS transfer procedures and maintain continuous F-1 status.
- You will need to apply for CPT again through the new school’s Designated School Official (DSO) with a new job offer letter, even if your job remains the same.
💡 Note: CPT is not automatically transferable between schools—it must be reauthorized by the new institution.
If you lose or quit your job while on CPT, the following may happen:
- Your CPT authorization becomes invalid because it is employer-specific and tied to that particular job.
- You must report the job change to your school’s Designated School Official (DSO) immediately.
- To continue working, you need to secure a new job offer related to your major and apply for updated CPT authorization through your DSO.
- If you cannot find a new job, you must remain compliant with your full-time study requirement to maintain F-1 status.
⚠️ Failing to update your employment status or continuing to work without valid CPT authorization may result in a violation of your F-1 status.
Yes, you can transfer from Day 1 CPT back to OPT, but there are key conditions:
- You must be completing a degree program at a SEVP-certified school to be eligible for OPT.
- You must not have used more than 12 months of full-time CPT at the same degree level, or you may lose OPT eligibility.
- The OPT must be directly tied to the program you are graduating from, and you need to apply before completing your degree.
✅ Tip: Part-time CPT (20 hours or less per week) does not affect OPT eligibility, but more than 12 months of full-time CPT at the same degree level will disqualify you from OPT. Always consult your DSO before making the switch.
🖥️ Enrollment and Academic Structure
Yes, Day 1 CPT programs require periodic physical campus attendance to comply with SEVP and USCIS regulations.
While many programs are hybrid or low-residency (e.g., requiring in-person attendance once a month or once per semester), you must follow your school’s specific attendance policy to maintain valid F-1 status.
⚠️ Skipping mandatory in-person sessions can lead to CPT termination and even F-1 status violations.
Yes, you can take online courses while on Day 1 CPT, but there are important limitations:
- Only one online or distance education course (up to 3 credits) may count toward your full-time enrollment requirement each semester under F-1 rules.
- The rest of your course load must consist of in-person or hybrid classes that meet the physical attendance requirements set by your school.
📌 Always check with your university’s DSO to ensure your course schedule complies with SEVP guidelines and maintains your F-1 status.
Yes, Day 1 CPT authorization is tied to your specific academic program and major.
The job you work under CPT must be directly related to your field of study, and your school’s curriculum must include practical training as an integral part of the degree. Some programs even link CPT participation to specific courses, such as internships or capstone projects, that require employment as part of the coursework.
📌 Working in a field unrelated to your major can result in CPT denial or immigration issues.
CPT authorization is typically issued on a per-semester or per-term basis, so you generally need to renew it every semester if you wish to continue working.
However, renewal frequency can vary by school—some may approve CPT for up to one academic year, while others require renewal each term regardless of continuity in employment.
📌 Always confirm your school’s CPT renewal policy with your Designated School Official (DSO) and submit renewal documents before your current CPT expires to avoid status issues.
Yes, there are both full-time and part-time CPT options:
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Part-time CPT: Up to 20 hours per week during the academic term; you remain eligible for OPT after graduation.
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Full-time CPT: More than 20 hours per week, typically allowed during school breaks or if your program requires it year-round; using 12 months or more of full-time CPT at the same degree level will eliminate your OPT eligibility.
📌 Your school and program must authorize the type of CPT based on your academic status and course requirements. Always consult your DSO before choosing.
✈️ Travel and Immigration
Yes, you can travel outside the U.S. while on Day 1 CPT, but you must ensure you have all required documents for re-entry:
- Valid F-1 visa in your passport (not expired).
- Valid passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond re-entry date).
- Most recent I-20 with a valid travel signature from your DSO (signed within the past 6 months).
- CPT-authorized I-20 showing employer information.
- Job offer letter or employment verification may be helpful at the port of entry.
⚠️ Re-entry can be riskier for Day 1 CPT students.. Be prepared to explain your academic program and how the CPT relates to your degree.
To re-enter the U.S. while on Day 1 CPT, you should carry the following documents:
- Valid passport – must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended entry date.
- Valid F-1 visa – unless you are from a visa-exempt country.
- Current I-20 – signed by your DSO for travel within the last 6 months and showing CPT authorization (employer, dates, and full/part-time status).
- Employment offer or verification letter – confirming your ongoing CPT employment.
- Proof of enrollment – such as a class schedule or enrollment verification letter from your university.
📌 Carry all documents in hand (not in checked baggage), and be ready to explain your program’s academic and practical training components if asked by CBP officers.
Yes, Day 1 CPT can carry risks during visa renewals or re-entry to the U.S., especially under increased immigration scrutiny. Common concerns include:
- Visa officers or CBP agents may question the legitimacy of your program, especially if it's mostly online or requires minimal academic attendance.
- If your employment seems to outweigh your academic engagement, you could face visa denials, re-entry issues, or additional questioning.
📌 To reduce risk, choose a reputable, accredited school, maintain full-time student status, attend required classes in person, and carry strong documentation to demonstrate that your CPT is integral to your academic program.
Yes, Day 1 CPT has impacted some visa approvals and led to visa denials or delays, particularly in cases where:
- The school offering Day 1 CPT lacked proper accreditation or was flagged by immigration authorities.
- The student’s employment overshadowed academic activity, raising concerns about misuse of the F-1 visa.
- The program appeared to be a way to maintain work authorization, rather than for genuine academic purposes.
- Students had previous visa overstays or violations linked to aggressive CPT use.
⚠️ To minimize risk, ensure your school is regionally accredited, your CPT is clearly tied to your curriculum, and you're maintaining legitimate full-time student status. Always be prepared to explain your academic and employment situation during visa interviews.
🛑 Risks and Challenges
Yes, using Day 1 CPT can affect your OPT eligibility, but it depends on how you use it:
- If you use more than 12 months of full-time CPT at the same degree level, you will lose eligibility for OPT.
- If you use part-time CPT (20 hours or less per week) or full-time CPT for less than 12 months, your OPT eligibility is not affected.
📌 Many students on Day 1 CPT maintain OPT eligibility by limiting their full-time CPT duration or switching to part-time CPT. Always confirm your CPT usage and plans with your school’s DSO to stay compliant.
The risk of receiving RFEs (Requests for Evidence) when using Day 1 CPT is moderate. Common RFE triggers include:
- Questions about whether CPT was integral to your curriculum.
- Doubt about school accreditation or legitimacy.
📌 To reduce RFE risk, maintain clear documentation (job descriptions, course syllabus, CPT I-20s) showing your CPT was authorized, relevant to your degree, and compliant with F-1 regulations.
🏫 Selecting the Right CPT School
When selecting a Day 1 CPT school, look for regional accreditation, which is the highest and most widely recognized standard in the U.S. Examples include:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
📌 Avoid schools with only national or state-level accreditation, as they are more likely to face scrutiny from USCIS.
When choosing a Day 1 CPT school, consider the following key factors:
- Accreditation – Prefer regionally accredited universities to reduce immigration risk.
- CPT Policy – Ensure CPT is clearly integrated into the curriculum and well-documented.
- Attendance Requirements – Check how often you must attend classes in person.
- Program Structure – Verify that the program is legitimate and academically rigorous.
- School Reputation – Research the school’s track record with USCIS (e.g., past RFEs or denials).
- Location – Consider the campus location and if it aligns with your employment.
- Cost and Financial Aid – Review tuition fees, scholarships, and payment flexibility.
- Student Support – Ensure the school provides strong DSO guidance and CPT processing help.
- Alumni Feedback – Look for honest reviews from current or former students.
- Flexibility – Consider how easily you can change employers or renew CPT.
📌 A good school will help protect your F-1 status and make your Day 1 CPT experience both legal and smooth.
Not necessarily. Both public and private universities can offer legitimate CPT programs, including Day 1 CPT, as long as they are SEVP-certified and regionally accredited.
💲 Cost and Financial Considerations
The typical cost range for Day 1 CPT programs is about $8,000 to $25,000 per year, depending on the school, program type, and location.
📌 Costs may include tuition, registration fees, technology fees, and CPT processing fees. Always review the full fee breakdown and confirm whether CPT-related services are included.
Yes, some Day 1 CPT programs offer scholarships or limited financial aid, but they are usually very competitive and limited in amount.
- Most schools offer merit-based discounts, referral scholarships, or partial tuition waivers.
- Federal financial aid (like FAFSA) is not available to international F-1 students.
- Some programs may offer payment plans to help with affordability.
Yes, some employers may offer to cover tuition or program fees for Day 1 CPT students as part of their employee benefits or professional development support.
- This is more common in STEM or tech fields, or with companies that offer tuition reimbursement programs.
- You’ll need to check your employer’s HR or benefits policy and confirm that the academic program qualifies.
- Payment may be made directly to the school or reimbursed after course completion.
📌 Be sure to coordinate with your employer and school to ensure all CPT rules and F-1 requirements are still met.
Day 1 CPT programs often cost less than traditional full-time graduate programs, but the difference depends on the school and program structure:
- Day 1 CPT programs (especially hybrid or executive formats) typically range from $8,000 to $25,000 per year.
- Regular graduate programs at public universities may cost $20,000–$40,000+ per year, while private universities can exceed $50,000 annually.
⚖️ Compliance and Documentation
While on Day 1 CPT, you should keep the following documentation to protect your F-1 status and support future visa or immigration applications:
- I-20 with CPT authorization – showing employer name, location, and CPT dates.
- Job offer letter – clearly stating job title, duties, start/end dates, and hours.
- Pay stubs or employment verification letters – to prove ongoing, authorized work.
- Course syllabus or description – linking CPT to your academic program.
- Academic transcripts and enrollment records – showing full-time student status.
- DSO communications and CPT approval forms – for recordkeeping and proof of compliance.
📌 Keep both digital and printed copies of these documents for visa interviews, future immigration filings, or potential USCIS audits.
Many employers are not familiar with Day 1 CPT, so it’s important to explain it clearly and professionally:
- Emphasize that Day 1 CPT is a legal work authorization for F-1 students, approved by a SEVP-certified school and authorized by the school’s Designated School Official (DSO).
- Let them know you will receive an updated I-20 with CPT details before starting work.
- Reassure them that no additional sponsorship or paperwork is required from the employer—unlike OPT or H-1B.
📌 Offer to share a brief summary or FAQ from your school’s international office, and connect them with your DSO if they have further questions.
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