Day 1 CPT Colleges

1. What is Day 1 CPT?

Day 1 CPT is work authorization issued to international student. It allows them to both study as an F-1 student and work full-time under CPT. Many international students who cannot secure an H-1B choose Day 1 CPT as an alternative.

Please refer to: Day 1 CPT: Backup Plan for 2024 H-1B Visa Lottery

2. Is Day 1 CPT legal?

Yes. According to USCIS, students can use CPT from the first day of enrollment if their master's or doctoral program requires immediate participation in CPT. (See footnote 9 in Chapter 5- Practical Training).

Please refer to: Is Day 1 CPT Legal? Understand Day 1 CPT from the Legal Perspective

3. Can Day 1 CPT students take classes online?

Yes, but not completely online. Students can take online classes on weekday nights or weekends. However, they must attend regular on-site sessions either once per month or once per semester, depending on the school's policy.

Please refer to: Can Day 1 CPT Students Take Classes Online? All You Need to Know

4. What are potential risks of Day 1 CPT?

When applying for an H-1B or green card, you might receive an RFE to verify whether you met academic requirements and maintained F-1 status during Day 1 CPT. However, by carefully choosing your Day 1 CPT school and program based on key principles. You can avoid an RFE or pass it smoothly.

Please refer to: Day 1 CPT and RFE: What Should You be Prepared for

5. How to choose a suitable Day 1 CPT school?

When choosing your Day 1 CPT school, you should consider the following factors: accreditation; location; on-site frequency; program options; tuition cost; and enrollment window.

Please refer to: Day 1 CPT Comprehensive Guide - How to Choose a Right School?

6. What companies accept Day 1 CPT?

Explore our Day 1 CPT Employer List to find large U.S. companies that accept Day 1 CPT. Moreover, many medium-sized and small companies are flexible in their hiring policies for Day 1 CPT employees.

Please refer to: What Companies Accept Day 1 CPT? How to Convince Your Employer to Support It?

7. How much do I need to pay for Day 1 CPT?

the annual tuition cost for a master's program is around $8,316 - $17,840 (2-year basis). The annual tuition cost for a doctoral program is around $10,500 - $14,100 (4-year basis). Students may also need to pay extra fees such as CPT fee, I-20 fee, technology fee, and book fee.

Please refer to: Day 1 CC Cost & Scholarships

8. What Day 1 CPT universities are the most affordable?

The cheapest Day 1 CPT universities include: New England College; CIAM; Sofia University; and Tennessee Wesleyan University.

Please refer to: 6 Cheapest Day 1 CPT Universities by Location

9. When should I apply for Day 1 CPT schools?

If you are currently on OPT, submit your applications at least 2 weeks before the program start date. For change of status applicants, start preparing at least 3 months before your intended enrollment intake.

Please refer to: Day 1 CPT Application Timeline

10. If I shift from OPT to Day 1 CPT, will there be a gap between the two work authorizations?

Yes, there will be a brief gap between OPT and Day 1 CPT, as your need to transfer your SEVIS after admission to a Day 1 CPT program. Once your SEVIS is transferred, your OPT authorization becomes invalid immediately. To minimize the gap, you should coordinate closely with both your previous and new schools.

Please refer to: OPT to Day 1 CPT: Understanding OPT Grace Period

11. How to transfer my SEVIS to a Day 1 CPT school?

First, contact your previous school to request a SEVIS transfer. Then, decide on your SEVIS release date and gather the required materials to submit your application.

Please refer to: OPT to Day 1 CPT: SEVIS Transfer Guide

12. How to apply for CPT after admission?

After completing your SEVIS transfer, you need to submit materials such as CPT application form, job offer letter, and CPT agreement to the school's DSO.

Please refer to: Day 1 CPT Comprehensive Guide - Day 1 CPT Work Authorization Application Process

13. How often do I need to renew my CPT?

Depending on the school’s policy, you must renew your CPT every semester or year. To do so, you need to submit the required materials to the school’s DSO.

14. Can I change jobs when using Day 1 CPT?

Yes, you can change jobs during Day 1 CPT, but you must report your employment status to the school's DSO.

15. Can I withdraw from the program if I secure an H-1B?

Yes, you can withdraw from the program if you secure an H-1B, but you must follow your school’s withdrawal procedures.