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Changing to another status (H1b, green card, etc.) and thinking of leaving your Day 1 CPT Program? Or, just want to begin at a different school? Withdrawing properly from a university is crucial because it directly impacts your F-1 visa status, your ability to legally work and stay in the U.S., and your future immigration opportunities. Here’s how to do it properly and protect your F-1 status.
1. Why Students Withdraw from Day 1 CPT
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows international students on F-1 visas to gain practical work experience in the fields related to their academic programs while enrolled in school. It’s a valuable opportunity—especially for those balancing career development and financial responsibilities.
That said, sometimes a student may decide that their current CPT school isn’t the right fit. Common reasons include:
- Changing to another status, like an H1b or a Green Card.
- Academic dissatisfaction
- A new job opportunity in another state
- Financial strain
- Program structure that doesn’t align with career goals
- Personal or family issues
Whatever your reason, withdrawing from a CPT school involves more than just stopping your attendance. Because your F-1 visa and CPT work authorization are tied to your enrollment, it’s important to follow the correct steps to maintain your legal status.
2. Legal and Immigration Consequences
Let’s be clear: withdrawing from your CPT school the wrong way can seriously affect your F-1 status.
Here’s what can happen if you don’t handle it properly:
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SEVIS Termination: If your school reports you as withdrawn and your SEVIS record isn’t transferred or closed correctly, your visa status may be terminated. If your status is terminated, you may need to apply for reinstatement—a lengthy and uncertain process.
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Unlawful Presence: Staying in the U.S. without valid F-1 status can trigger immigration consequences, such as future visa denials or bars on re-entry.
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Loss of CPT Authorization: CPT is only valid while you are actively enrolled. Once you withdraw, your work authorization ends. Mind the transition of your legal working authorization.
3. Step-by-Step CPT School Withdrawal Process
Before Withdrawal:
It's always recommended to finish at least the current semester if you are changing into another status like H1b, to avoid any future immigration complications. Note that you can study fully online, even change to a status like H1b, H4, Green Card, or L1/L2.
Here's how to withdraw from your CPT school responsibly and protect your visa status:
1. Speak With Your Advisors and DSOs
Your Academic Advisors and Designated School Official (DSO) should always be your first point of contact for any change of enrollment plans or employment. They’ll guide you through your school’s withdrawal process and explain how it impacts your SEVIS record.
2. Secure Admission to a New School (Skip to Step 3 if not continuing your F1)
If you’re transferring to another school, apply and get accepted before initiating the withdrawal. This ensures you have a clear path forward.
3. Complete the School’s Withdrawal Process and Confirm Refund Amount
Every school has a formal process—usually an online withdrawal form or a written notice. Complete this step properly and keep a copy of your submission for your records.
Don't forget the tuition refund! The majority of universities in the US provide partial refunds for your tuition, provided you haven't reached halfway through your current semester. Schools like California Institute of Advanced Management even provide a refund before you finish more than 60% of your semester. The actual refund policies vary school by school, so make sure you read them and discuss with the school about the refund amount, refund form, and expected refund date.
4. Request a SEVIS Transfer (Skip to Step 6 if not continuing your F1)
If you’re transferring, ask your DSO to release your SEVIS record to your new school. You’ll need to provide:
- A copy of your admission letter
- The name and SEVIS code of the new school
- A transfer release date
5. Receive Your New I-20 and Apply for CPT if Needed
Once the transfer is complete, your new school will issue a new I-20. This document reflects your updated program, CPT eligibility, and other critical details. Review it carefully.
6. Notify Your Employer (If Working)
If there will be a gap in your CPT work authorization, let your employer know ahead of time. This helps avoid any confusion and protects you and your employer from compliance issues.
4. Real-Life Student Stories
Hussan: Smart Transfer with Credits Saved
Hussan was nearing the end of his summer semester when he received an offer from a better-fitting CPT school. Rather than rushing the switch, he finished his semester, worked closely with both schools, and arranged a SEVIS transfer immediately after his final exam. The best part? He successfully transferred 9 graduate credits to his new program—saving both time and tuition.
👉 Why it worked: Hussan followed the rules, kept communication open, and timed everything right. Now he’s thriving in his new program with a lighter course load and a head start.
Emma: From F-1 to H-1B, Mid-Semester Exit
Emma got the news every international student dreams of—her H-1B was approved, and the start date was October 1. The only issue? Her CPT semester wouldn’t end until December. Emma decided to shift her focus to her career and pause her study at that time, so she worked with her DSO to withdraw mid-semester in early October.
Her SEVIS record was properly closed. She traveled back to her country in November, completed her H-1B visa stamping smoothly, and even received a 50% tuition refund from her previous school.
⚠️ Note: Emma’s story had a happy ending, but this path carries risk. Mid-semester withdrawals can affect future visa applications or credibility with consulates. We always recommend completing the semester unless your attorney or DSO advises otherwise.
Final Lesson?
Communicate early. Plan carefully. Document everything.
Whether you’re transferring schools like Hussan or transitioning to H-1B like Emma, your DSO is your best friend—and timing is everything.
5. Best Practices Before You Withdraw
Here are some things you should do before officially withdrawing:
- ✅ Explore your options. Transferring may be better than withdrawing.
- ✅ Keep copies of all communications and forms.
- ✅ Talk to both your current and new school’s DSOs.
- ✅ Budget for any short gaps in CPT eligibility or income.
- ✅ Ask about tuition refunds and billing policies.
6. What Happens After You Withdraw
Depending on how you handle the process, you’ll end up in one of these situations:
✔️ Grace Period (15-60 Days)
If you complete the withdrawal properly, you may receive a grace period. During this time, you can:
- Prepare to leave the U.S.
- Begin a new program
- Change to a different visa status
⚠️ Status Termination
If your SEVIS record is terminated due to failure to follow procedures, you’ll be considered out of status and may need to leave the U.S. immediately.
🔁 Reinstatement
If your status is terminated but you remain in the U.S., you can apply for F-1 reinstatement. However, this process is time-consuming, and approval is not guaranteed.
7. FAQs
Q1: Can I continue working during the transfer?
A: Only if your new CPT authorization begins immediately and there’s no gap in status.
Q2: Will my SEVIS ID change when I transfer?
A: No. If the transfer is done correctly, your SEVIS ID stays the same.
Q3: I stopped attending classes but haven’t told my school yet. What now?
A: Contact your DSO immediately. They may still be able to help you avoid SEVIS termination.
Q4: Can I withdraw in the middle of a semester?
A: Yes, as long as you plan a SEVIS transfer and follow your school’s withdrawal procedures.
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