Day 1 CPT
Day 1 CPT offers international students in the U.S. a significant chance to work within their academic curriculum from day one, integrating "alternate work/study, internships, cooperative education, or required practicums" through school partnerships. While navigating Day 1 CPT's complexities and immigration regulations is crucial to avoid jeopardizing visa status, the benefits—immediate industry experience, enhanced employability, financial relief, and networking—far outweigh the risks. By aligning closely with academic and immigration requirements, Day 1 CPT can be a strategic advantage, providing practical training and valuable connections that pave the way for future professional success in the U.S.
More Day 1 CPT Resources
What is Day 1 CPT?
Is Day 1 CPT Legal?
Day 1 CPT Eligibility
Day 1 CPT Course Requirements
Day 1 CPT School Selection
Potential Risks of Day 1 CPT
Day 1 CPT School Application
Post-Day 1 CPT Pathways
What is Day 1 CPT?
Day 1 CPT refers to Curricular Practical Training (CPT) that allows international students to begin working or interning from the first day of their program. Before diving into the specifics of Day 1 CPT, it’s essential to understand the nature of CPT itself.
Difference Between OPT and CPT
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers two types of work authorizations for international students: CPT (Curricular Practical Training) and OPT (Optional Practical Training). Both OPT and CPT require that the work be directly related to the student’s major field of study.
Many students may be more familiar with OPT. Most students use OPT to work in the U.S. for one year or up to three years (for STEM graduates) after graduation. Although OPT can also be used before graduation, any days used before graduation will be deducted from the total OPT duration. To qualify for OPT, a student must have completed at least one full academic year of full-time study in the U.S. and must obtain USCIS approval. Additionally, there is only one OPT allowed per degree level, meaning that if you have used OPT after completing a master’s degree, you will not be eligible for a new OPT unless you pursue a higher degree, such as a Ph.D.
CPT, on the other hand, offers more flexibility compared to OPT. While CPT is limited to use during the course of study, there are no restrictions on its duration or the number of times it can be used. Even if you are pursuing a second master’s degree, you can still use CPT during your studies. More importantly, the issuance of CPT is determined by the Designated School Official (DSO) at the school, without the need for USCIS approval.
Typically, schools require students to complete one academic year before applying for CPT. However, some schools that emphasize practical work experience allow students to start internships from the first day of their program, enabling them to use CPT from day one. These institutions are known as "Day 1 CPT universities."
OPT | Day 1 CPT | |
---|---|---|
Usage Time | Before or after graduation | Before graduation |
Duration | 1 year or 3 years (STEM) | From the first day until graduation Master's programs: 2-3 years Doctoral programs: 4-6 years |
Authorization | USCIS | School DSO |
Employer Requirement | No | Yes |
Frequency | Once per degree level | Unlimited |
Note | Pre-graduation usage deducts corresponding days from total OPT | If you work full-time using CPT for 12 months, you will be ineligible for OPT after graduation |
How Day 1 CPT Works
So, how does Day 1 CPT enable someone to legally work in the U.S.?
As mentioned earlier, CPT is a work authorization issued by USCIS for international students. To use CPT, a student must first hold F-1 student status. To utilize Day 1 CPT, a student must apply to a "Day 1 CPT university." Once accepted and enrolled, they can legally remain in the U.S. as an F-1 student.
Traditional universities usually offer only two entry points each year, in the spring and fall. In contrast, Day 1 CPT universities often have 4-6 entry points per year, making them particularly suitable for those whose OPT has expired or whose H-1B visa application was denied.
After maintaining their legal status, the next step is to secure a job. With a job offer in hand, the student can apply to their Day 1 CPT university for CPT authorization. Once approved by the DSO, the CPT work authorization is added to the student’s I-20 form. Based on the CPT start and end dates listed on the new I-20, the student can legally work full-time, part-time, or intern.
In summary, Day 1 CPT works by allowing students to legally remain in the U.S. with F-1 student status while working legally through CPT.
Read More: Employers accept Day 1 CPT
Is Day 1 CPT Legal?
Day 1 CPT is entirely legal and compliant with U.S. regulations. While Day 1 CPT offers significant convenience, it also requires students to adhere strictly to the associated guidelines. As an F-1 student, you must commit time and effort to your studies, comply with your school's CPT policies, and regularly update your CPT status.
USCIS CPT Policy
The USCIS delegates the authority to establish CPT policies to individual universities. This includes decisions on whether to allow on-campus or off-campus CPT internships during the first year of enrollment and whether to permit full-time or part-time CPT work.
According to USCIS guidelines, for graduate-level programs (master's and doctoral degrees), a designated School Official (DSO) has the authority to issue CPT authorizations during the first semester if the program emphasizes practical work experience. Below is an official statement from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE):
USCIS CPT Guidelines
"During your graduate or doctoral studies, if your degree program requires you to engage in practical training starting from your first semester, your school's DSO can authorize CPT for you during that initial semester. Students should contact their DSO for more details."
Thus, Day 1 CPT is not a legal gray area but fully compliant with regulations. The primary focus of U.S. immigration authorities is whether students engaged in full-time CPT are working legally, whether there are gaps between student status and H-1B status, whether there has been any illegal overstay, and whether students are attending classes as required by their school. When considering a Day 1 CPT program, it is recommended to prioritize programs where CPT experience is an essential graduation requirement for master's or doctoral degrees. If you need to confirm whether a school's Day 1 CPT program is mandated by the curriculum, you should consult with an advisor who can evaluate your situation and provide tailored recommendations.
According to USCIS regulations, for programs that issue CPT, the training must be an integral part of the curriculum. In the eyes of USCIS, CPT is a component of the program's academic requirements. Therefore, while using Day 1 CPT, students must ensure they meet all academic obligations and not let their work overshadow their studies.
Day 1 CPT schools often require students to maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher to apply for or renew CPT. Thus, it is crucial for students to keep their GPA in good standing.
Day 1 CPT Schools
West Coast
East Coast
- Monroe College
- Saint Peter's University
- McDaniel College
- New England College
- National Louis University
Midwest & South
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Who is Day 1 CPT Suitable For?
- 01 International Students Holding OPT/STEM OPT Who Haven’t Secured H-1B
- 02 H-1B Holders Facing a 60-Day Grace Period After Layoff or Nearing the 6-Year Limit
- 03 Students Facing Academic Crises, Expulsion, or Needing to Transfer Quickly
- 04 Students Whose OPT Applications Have Been Rejected
- 05 Professionals Working Full-Time Overseas or in the U.S. Who Want to Pursue a Degree While Continuing to Work
International Students Holding OPT/STEM OPT Who Haven’t Secured H-1B
In recent years, the competition for H-1B visas has intensified, leaving many international students in a difficult position as their OPT or STEM OPT nears expiration without securing an H-1B, or when their employers are unwilling to sponsor an H-1B. For these students, Day 1 CPT offers an excellent opportunity to continue both studying and working in the U.S. While enrolled in a Day 1 CPT program, students can continue applying for the H-1B visa.
H-1B Holders Facing a 60-Day Grace Period After Layoff or Nearing the 6-Year Limit
Given the current downturn in the U.S. job market, many H-1B holders find it challenging to secure a new job within the 60-day grace period after being laid off. In such cases, enrolling in a Day 1 CPT program can serve as a temporary solution while searching for new employment. Day 1 CPT universities offer multiple entry points throughout the year, making them a convenient option for those who are pressed for time after entering the grace period.
Students Facing Academic Crises, Expulsion, or Needing to Transfer Quickly
Students who face academic crises, expulsion, or need to transfer schools urgently must do so before the deadline provided by their current institution, or they risk losing their student status. Day 1 CPT schools, with their flexible enrollment dates, can provide admission and transfer SEVIS records within just a few weeks or even 1-2 days, making them a convenient option for students in such emergencies.
Students Whose OPT Applications Have Been Rejected
We frequently encounter students whose OPT applications were rejected for various reasons, only to realize they had already surpassed their grace period and lost their legal status in the U.S. The fastest way to regain student status in this scenario is to exit the country and re-enter on a new F-1 visa. Day 1 CPT schools, with their flexible start dates and expedited application processes, can provide admission and an I-20 in as little as 1-2 days, allowing students to quickly exit and re-enter the U.S. to reactivate their student status.
Professionals Working Full-Time Overseas or in the U.S. Who Want to Pursue a Degree While Continuing to Work
For IT or CS professionals based abroad who have received an offer from a U.S. company or plan to seek employment in the U.S. but do not yet have an H-1B visa, Day 1 CPT programs are an attractive option. These programs allow professionals to study in the U.S. while continuing to work full-time or to start job hunting for H-1B sponsorship. Additionally, some U.S. companies require an MBA for advancement to management positions and may sponsor employees to pursue an MBA. By enrolling in a Day 1 CPT program, employees can earn their degrees while continuing to work.
Course Requirements for Day 1 CPT Schools
Hybrid Learning Model
"Day 1 CPT schools" typically use a hybrid learning model. This means that students can attend online classes via Zoom during weekday evenings or weekends, or watch recorded lectures at their convenience. However, students are also required to attend regular on-site classes.
Due to the restrictions of the F-1 visa, international students are limited to taking only 3 of their minimum required 6 credits per semester through online courses. As a result, most CPT programs require students to attend on-site classes at least once per month or once per semester, with these sessions usually scheduled on weekends.
U.S. immigration regulations explicitly state that international students on F-1 visas cannot be enrolled in programs that are 100% online while residing in the U.S. In fact, if a program allowed 100% remote learning, there would be no legitimate reason for international students to remain in the U.S. This is why it is crucial for students to adhere strictly to the on-site class requirements. Failing to attend these sessions would be a direct violation of immigration rules, potentially leading to a loss of legal status.
Weekly Study Commitment
Each semester, students must enroll in at least 6 credits of coursework (typically two courses) and a 0.5-1 credit CPT elective course (some schools integrate the CPT requirement directly into the program curriculum, eliminating the need for a separate CPT course). Based on our research, students taking 6 credits per semester for a CPT program typically need to dedicate around 4-6 hours per week to fulfill course requirements, including reading and completing assignments.
Program Duration
For CPT master's programs, most students complete the program within 1.5 to 2 years, although some programs may require up to 3 years of study. For some students, a longer program duration can be beneficial, as it allows them more opportunities to apply for the H-1B lottery while enrolled in Day 1 CPT. An additional year in the program means an extra chance to secure an H-1B visa.
Some students choose to take more credits each semester to graduate early, potentially earning their master's degree within one year. However, this approach can result in significant academic pressure, making it difficult to balance work and study, so it requires careful consideration. Additionally, not all programs allow for an accelerated timeline, so thorough research is necessary when selecting a school.
Students are encouraged to use course and professor evaluation systems to help choose the right courses and avoid potential pitfalls.
Read More: Day 1 CPT Course Review
Day 1 CPT School Selection Guide
Choosing the right Day 1 CPT school involves considering several factors such as accreditation, location, program compatibility, on-site attendance frequency, tuition costs, and enrollment dates. Below, we’ll explore each of these factors in detail.
If you have any questions about selecting a school, feel free to reach out to our advisors for a free consultation.
School Legitimacy and Accreditation
It's crucial to prioritize schools with a long-standing reputation, national and regional accreditation, and a recognized presence. Avoid schools that are relatively new and lack proper accreditation. In the U.S., regional accreditation is particularly important and often more rigorous than national accreditation. For example, WASC accreditation is the highest level of accreditation for universities in the Western region, held by institutions like Stanford University and UCLA.
For instance, Westcliff University in Irvine, established in 1993, received national accreditation in 2014 and finally obtained WASC accreditation in 2018. Monroe College in New York and Harrisburg University in Pennsylvania hold the Middle States Commission on Higher Education accreditation.
You can check the accreditation status of any school on the U.S. Department of Education's official website. Most universities also clearly state their accreditation status on their homepage. You can also refer to our list of reliable Day 1 CPT schools for more options.
On-Site Attendance Frequency
The requirement for on-site attendance varies across Day 1 CPT schools. Some schools, like Ottawa University, may require on-site attendance once every two months, while others, like Westcliff University’s Professional Format Program, may require it once per semester. On the other hand, some schools, like UONA, may require weekly on-site attendance. These attendance plans must be approved by state governments and accreditation agencies before being implemented.
It's also advisable to keep records of your attendance, transportation receipts, parking tickets, textbook purchases, and tuition payment screenshots. These can serve as evidence of maintaining your student status if the USCIS issues a Request for Evidence (RFE) questioning your on-site attendance.
Location and Transportation Convenience
When selecting a school, it's generally best to choose one close to your residence. However, since not every state has a Day 1 CPT school, many students may need to travel across states for on-site classes. For example, students living in Connecticut may need to attend classes in New York or New Jersey, and those in Washington State may need to travel to California. While it’s reasonable to attend on-site classes in a nearby state, attending a CPT school far from your residence, like a California resident attending a New York school, might raise questions about your compliance with on-site requirements.
Consider the convenience of transportation to your chosen school to save time and money. If you need to attend classes weekly or monthly for an extended period, you should consider whether there are direct flights, train routes, bus routes, or convenient driving options near the school.
Some schools might be closer to your city but have higher on-site attendance frequencies, so you’ll need to weigh these factors carefully.
Schools Near Major Metropolitan Areas
- San Francisco Area: Sofia University (Palo Alto, CA), Humphreys University (Stockton, CA)
- Los Angeles Area: Westcliff University (Irvine, CA), CIAM (Alhambra, CA), Sofia University (Costa Mesa, CA)
- New York Area: Monroe College (New Rochelle, NY), Saint Peter's University (Jersey City, NJ)
- Boston Area: New England College (Hennikar, NH)
- Washington, DC Area: University of the Potomac (Falls Church, VA; Washington DC), McDaniel College (Westminster, MD)
- Chicago Area: National Louis University (Chicago, IL)
Program Compatibility
When choosing a school, it’s essential to ensure that the Day 1 CPT program aligns with your professional background and career goals. Selecting a program that is unrelated to your current job or too similar to your previous degree can make future visa applications and status changes more challenging.
For detailed advice on how to choose the right program, refer to our [School Selection Guide].
Tuition Costs
For master's programs, Day 1 CPT schools typically charge between $8,000 and $16,000 in tuition fees, which is relatively affordable compared to traditional research universities. Many schools now offer monthly payment options, easing the burden of having to pay a large sum upfront at the start of the academic year.
Low Tuition Costs and Monthly Payment Options
- New England College
- Humphreys University
- Westcliff University
For-Profit vs. Non-Profit Schools
This consideration is particularly important for those seeking their first graduate degree in the U.S. and intending to apply for an H-1B visa. Only a graduate degree from a non-profit institution qualifies you for the H-1B Master Cap, which includes an additional 20,000 spots for advanced degree holders.
Examples of non-profit Day 1 CPT schools include New England College, California Institute of Advanced Management (CIAM), and Harrisburg University.
Schools Accepting Initial F-1 Students
If you don’t have any prior U.S. education experience, pay attention to whether the CPT school accepts initial F-1 students. Some schools, like CIAM and Sofia University, only issue Day 1 CPT to students who already have a U.S. degree or have studied in the U.S. for at least one year. New England College, for instance, requires applicants to already have a U.S. master’s degree. If you don’t meet these criteria, you may need to consider other schools.
CPT Update Frequency
CPT update requirements vary from school to school. Some require updates every semester, while others only require them annually. Since each update involves notifying your employer or supervisor, those who prefer less frequent interactions may lean towards schools with a lower update frequency.
If you have any questions about selecting a school, please reach out to our advisors for a free consultation.
Potential Risks of Day 1 CPT
Risk of Status Change
While Day 1 CPT typically does not affect the approval of an H-1B visa, students working through Day 1 CPT might face a Request for Evidence (RFE) from USCIS after being selected for H-1B. The USCIS may ask for additional documentation to prove that the student maintained their legal F-1 student status.
For example, if a student completes a STEM master’s program and uses up their 3 years of OPT, and then enrolls in another master’s program, USCIS may issue an RFE after the student is selected for H-1B to confirm that the student attended on-site classes during the second master’s program and did not participate in a 100% online program.
Since President Biden took office, the number of RFEs related to Day 1 CPT has generally decreased, especially for students who choose established, well-accredited, and regionally recognized schools (and who select appropriate programs). Even if an RFE is issued due to CPT, students should not panic—consult an immigration lawyer promptly to discuss response strategies. Many attorneys are experienced in handling H-1B applications involving CPT-related RFEs. They can assist students in explaining the intent and legitimacy of CPT, covering the reasons for applying, the application process, and the specific usage of CPT. Additionally, they can provide evidence of coursework, research projects, and continued academic participation to support the legality of full-time CPT during the student’s enrollment.
Besides legal support, another critical factor in successfully responding to an RFE is the support provided by the Day 1 CPT school. Established Day 1 CPT schools often prepare a comprehensive "RFE support package" to help students demonstrate that they were maintaining a full course of study and that CPT was not misused.
A typical "support package" includes the following materials:
- RFE Support Letter: An official letter from the school (a core support document) explaining that the student’s CPT work was a program requirement and not a misuse of CPT.
- Attendance Report: Records of class attendance.
- CPT Corporate Agreement: A copy of the CPT agreement.
- Enrollment Verification: Proof of enrollment.
- Official Transcript: The student’s official academic transcript.
- Academic Record: A detailed record of the student’s academic performance.
- Tuition Record: Documentation of tuition payments.
Typically, as long as these materials are included in the RFE response, USCIS will accept them. In some cases, however, USCIS may approve the H-1B petition but deny the change of status application, requiring the student to leave the U.S. and re-enter on an H-1B visa (consular processing).
It’s important to note that students who pursue a master’s program after completing a bachelor’s degree or a doctoral program after a master’s degree generally do not face RFEs related to Day 1 CPT.
F-1 Visa Renewal Risk
Although Day 1 CPT programs are designed within the framework of U.S. immigration law and are legal and compliant, long-term work through Day 1 CPT can raise concerns during F-1 visa renewal. Visa officers might question whether the applicant’s primary intent is to complete their studies or to secure or maintain employment. In such cases, it’s generally advisable to wait until you’ve secured an H-1B before traveling abroad. If your F-1 visa expires and you need to renew it while abroad, consult with your school advisor or an immigration lawyer in advance to prepare the necessary documents and understand how to respond to potential questions from immigration officers.
Three Major Pitfalls of Day 1 CPT
While there are potential risks with Day 1 CPT, students can minimize these risks by adhering to USCIS and school CPT regulations. Most of the risks associated with Day 1 CPT stem from misuse of CPT and violations of related regulations.
Here are three common pitfalls of Day 1 CPT. Avoiding these pitfalls can help you use CPT legally and responsibly.
Pitfall 1: Attending Unaccredited Schools
The first rule in choosing a Day 1 CPT school is to ensure it has proper accreditation. Avoid schools that lack accreditation or have had their accreditation revoked, usually due to poor course management, inaccurate attendance records, or involvement in visa fraud. Schools to avoid include:
- Silicon Valley University
- International American University
- International Technological University
- ACISI-affiliated schools (e.g., UoNA, Stratford University, American University of Fairfax)
Another category of schools to avoid is those set up by USCIS as "sting operations" to catch students who violate visa regulations by offering programs with no coursework or attendance requirements. Students caught in these operations face deportation and may be permanently barred from re-entering the U.S. Examples of such sting operations include:
- University of Farmington
- University of Northern New Jersey
Pitfall 2: Failing to Meet Course and Attendance Requirements
As a Day 1 CPT student, you are still an F-1 student, meaning that even if you have a full-time job, you must dedicate time to your coursework. To renew your CPT, you must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Failure to attend classes or submit assignments can result not only in losing your CPT but also in losing your F-1 status, forcing you to leave the U.S.
Attending on-site classes is especially crucial for CPT students. Because on-site attendance is directly tied to USCIS regulations, many schools explicitly state that students who do not meet on-site requirements will be expelled. Schools that relax these requirements risk losing their accreditation, as seen with several universities. Therefore, Day 1 CPT schools enforce strict on-site attendance policies.
Pitfall 3: Not Following School CPT Policies
Another major pitfall of Day 1 CPT is working without proper CPT authorization. Students must follow their school’s policies and renew their CPT each semester or academic year. Working without applying for or renewing CPT constitutes unauthorized employment, which can lead to serious consequences, including the loss of legal status.
Day 1 CPT School Application Process
Applying to a Day 1 CPT school is quite straightforward. Just follow the seven-step application process outlined below:
- Step 01
- Step 02
- Step 03
- Step 04
- Step 05
- Step 06
- Step 07
Choose a School
Select a school based on factors such as program specialization, location, on-site attendance frequency, tuition costs, and enrollment windows. If you are facing a grace period, prioritize schools with the nearest enrollment window. If you have any questions about school selection, consult with one of our advisors.
Submit Your Application
Prepare your application materials and submit them once you've confirmed the school’s details. By applying through our platform, you can waive the application fee.
Note: If you do not have a U.S. degree, you will need to complete degree verification and take an English proficiency test (most schools accept the Duolingo test for its convenience and speed).
Receive Your Admission Letter
If all materials are in order, you can expect to receive your admission letter within 1-2 weeks. Applications submitted through our platform can receive admission in as quickly as 1-3 days.
Transfer SEVIS/Change Status
-
If you are an F-1 student (including those on OPT):
You will need to transfer your SEVIS record to your new CPT school. This process typically takes 3-5 business days. After the SEVIS transfer, you can remain in the U.S., but your OPT will become invalid, and you will be unable to work. You should coordinate with your employer to take time off, and then resume work when your CPT takes effect. -
If you hold another visa (e.g., H-1B, F-2, H-4, L-1, L-2, B-1, B-2):
You will need to immediately initiate a change of status or leave the country to attend a visa interview. Changing status within the U.S. usually takes 3-8 months. After you submit your application, you enter a pending period during which you can stay in the U.S. until the application decision is made. You cannot work during the pending period.
Submit CPT Application Materials to the School DSO
Before submitting your application, ensure you have an offer letter and that you have pre-registered for the CPT course. The required CPT application materials include:
- CPT Application Form
- Offer Letter (including job description)
- CPT Agreement (signed by the employer; some schools may allow an employment letter or offer letter as a substitute)
- Proof of Tuition Payment
Receive Your I-20 with CPT Authorization
If all your materials are correct, you should receive a new I-20 with CPT authorization within 1-2 weeks. Once you receive it, confirm that the employer information on the second page is accurate and check the CPT start date.
Start Working with CPT and Regularly Renew Your CPT
When your CPT start date arrives, you can begin working. Before the end of each semester or academic year, keep an eye out for emails from the school about renewing your CPT. Submit your renewal application at least two weeks in advance. Typically, approval and the new I-20 are issued within 1-2 days.
Post-Day 1 CPT Pathways
After obtaining Day 1 CPT, students can continue working and studying in the U.S. Day 1 CPT does not require you to be tied to a specific employer, offering much more flexibility than the H-1B visa when it comes to changing employers. During job interviews, you can emphasize the flexibility and legality of Day 1 CPT to potential employers.
OPT (Optional Practical Training)
If your Day 1 CPT degree is at a higher level than your previous degree and is in a STEM field, you may be eligible for an additional 3 years of OPT. However, if you have already worked full-time using CPT for a year (with "full-time" defined as more than 20 hours per week), you will lose your eligibility for OPT. One strategy is to work full-time under CPT for 11 months, then switch to part-time to preserve your OPT eligibility.
H-1B Visa
If you were previously unsuccessful in obtaining an H-1B visa, you can continue entering the lottery while on Day 1 CPT. A two-year master's program provides you with two chances to enter the H-1B lottery, and a longer doctoral program offers even more opportunities. If you win the H-1B lottery and your application is approved, you can switch from F-1 to H-1B status.
If you already had an H-1B visa but lost your job and enrolled in a CPT program, you can switch back to H-1B once you secure new employment, without needing to re-enter the lottery.
Green Card
U.S. immigration law does not specify that a particular visa is required to apply for a green card, so F-1 students can apply as well. If, during your Day 1 CPT period, your employer or partner sponsors your green card application, you can secure permanent residency, allowing you to stay in the U.S. indefinitely without worrying about visa status.
Interested in knowing more details about Day 1 CPT? Book a free consultation with us!
- Free Day 1 CPT School Match
- Immigration Lawyer Referral
- Application Fee Wavier & Application Assistant
- Scholarship Opportunities
- Connecting to the Admission Officer to Get Pre-Approval
- Premium Process: Get an Offer and I-20 within 3 days (added-value service)