For international students in the U.S., especially those who’ve used up their OPT or didn’t win the H-1B visa lottery, Day 1 CPT schools offer a potential lifeline: the ability to begin Curricular Practical Training (CPT) from the very first day of enrollment.
Unlike traditional CPT - which typically requires one full academic year of study - Day 1 CPT is commonly available in certain graduate programs where practical training is integrated into the curriculum. These programs are often hybrid or executive-format, designed to support working professionals.
Let’s explore the real history of Day 1 CPT schools, their structure, and the risks - plus introduce five long-established CPT universities known for their accreditation, program legitimacy, and cautious compliance posture.
While CPT has existed for decades under the F-1 visa category, the rise of Day 1 CPT is relatively recent — largely fueled by:
The H-1B visa lottery cap and rising unselected rates
Backlogs in green card processing
A growing number of working professionals on F-1 visas, looking to legally stay employed while continuing education
In response, some smaller, private U.S. colleges began launching hybrid-format graduate programs that included CPT from the start — a model permissible under SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) guidance when the CPT is an “integral part of the established curriculum.”
Not all schools, however, follow the rules carefully. That’s why school accreditation, structure, and compliance behavior matter immensely for students seeking low-risk, long-term immigration outcomes.
Below are five universities offering Day 1 CPT programs with long institutional track records, regional accreditation, and hybrid formats designed to stay compliant with F-1 visa rules.
History Snapshot:
Humphreys has served California’s Central Valley for over a century. Originally a family-founded school focused on practical business training, it gradually expanded into graduate education. In recent years, it began offering hybrid-format programs — without the marketing hype of newer CPT schools.
Behind the Scenes:
History Snapshot:
NEC was established in the aftermath of World War II to educate returning veterans. Originally a small liberal arts college in rural New England, it gradually evolved into a career-focused university. In the 2010s, NEC expanded its graduate offerings and introduced hybrid formats, opening the door to working international students across the U.S.
Behind the Scenes:
History Snapshot:
Founded during the Great Depression, Monroe began as a career-focused business institute. Over the decades, it expanded into healthcare, technology, and public administration fields while maintaining its focus on applied education. Today, it’s a regionally accredited college that blends academic rigor with workforce preparation—making it attractive to F-1 students seeking CPT.
Behind the Scenes:
- Location advantage: Based in the New York City metro area, one of the U.S.’s largest job markets
- Tuition discount: Offers reduced tuition for students who already hold a U.S. master’s degree.
- Scholarships: Provides $1,000–$3,000 scholarships specifically for international students, easing financial burden.
History Snapshot:
Ottawa University was established in the 19th century with a focus on liberal arts and faith-based education. Over the years, it evolved into a multi-campus institution offering online and adult-focused programs. Its hybrid graduate degrees now serve a growing number of international professionals seeking CPT through a structured academic route.
Behind the Scenes:
History Snapshot:
IWU started as a faith-based college and became one of the Midwest’s largest private universities. Its National & Global division offers flexible, hybrid-format graduate programs that align with F-1 CPT requirements, drawing students from across the U.S.
Behind the Scenes:
Choosing a CPT school isn’t just about convenience — it’s about protecting your immigration record, future H-1B approval, and green card eligibility. USCIS now closely reviews:
✅ The five schools above offer credible hybrid programs that meet F-1 and SEVP standards — minimizing risk while supporting your career.