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

For international students seeking career development while continuing their education in the U.S., Day 1 CPT (Curricular Practical Training) offers a valuable solution. However, many Day 1 CPT students have full-time jobs and live in cities far from campus, raising the question of whether they can complete their courses online. This article will address this question by explaining USCIS regulations on online courses and the on-site requirements of Day 1 CPT universities.

Table of Contents

USCIS Regulations on Online Classes

How Can Day 1 CPT Students Take Classes Online?

The Requirement of On-Site Classes at Day 1 CPT Universities

Universities with the Lowest On-Site Requirement

Conclusion

USCIS Regulations on Online Classes

Many people considering Day 1 CPT often ask, “I have a full-time job. Can I take courses at Day 1 CPT universities online?”

The answer is: yes, but not completely online.

To better understand this, let’s first look at U.S. immigration policies. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has clear guidelines for F-1 students concerning online courses. According to the USCIS, students can take only one online class (or 3 credit hours) per semester. 

This regulation aims to ensure that international students remain actively engaged in on-campus education, which is an important aspect of maintaining their F-1 student status. Additionally, if a school allows international students to study entirely online, there would be no need for them to stay in the U.S. Therefore, attending on-campus classes is essential to maintain your legal residency and justify your presence in the country.

For students enrolled in Day 1 CPT programs, maintaining legal status is essential. While Day 1 CPT universities and colleges allow students to take most classes online, they require students to complete a certain portion of their education in person to comply with USCIS regulations. Failure to meet these requirements will result in the termination of your F-1 status.

How Can Day 1 CPT Students Take Classes Online?

Although online learning options are limited for F-1 students, many Day 1 CPT universities implement hybrid models, combining online and on-site learning. This allows students to complete part of their coursework online, which can be especially convenient for those balancing work and study.

Students enrolled in Day 1 CPT programs can take advantage of the 3-credit-hour online course allowance, using it for electives or non-core subjects. Additionally, universities often provide digital resources, recorded lectures, and virtual discussions to support students’ learning experience. Students typically spend 4-6 hours per week taking online classes and completing assignments, which is manageable for most.

The Requirement of On-Site Classes at Day 1 CPT Universities

Most Day 1 CPT universities require students to attend a minimum number of on-site sessions per semester to comply with both USCIS rules. These sessions typically take place once a month or once per semester, depending on the program. The frequency and duration of these on-site classes vary by school but often involve weekend or intensive sessions to accommodate working professionals.

On-site classes are designed to ensure compliance with immigration laws while offering students valuable opportunities to engage with faculty and peers. Attendance is closely monitored, and students must plan their schedules accordingly to meet these obligations. Accredited Day 1 CPT universities are strict about checking attendance, as non-compliance with regulations could lead to the loss of their accreditation.

In fact, meeting on-site requirements can positively impact students' future visa applications. During on-site sessions, schools usually require students to sign attendance sheets, and some even take photos to document class participation. These records serve as evidence of compliance with USCIS regulations. If students receive a Request for Evidence (RFE) during H-1B or green card applications, schools can provide these documents to support their cases.

Fore more information, see:

Day 1 CPT and RFE: What Should You be Prepared for?

First-Hand On-Site Experiences

Universities with the Lowest On-Site Requirement

If minimizing on-site attendance is a priority for you, you can consider the following Day 1 CPT universities and colleges:

West Coast

• Westcliff University
  • On-Site Requirement: 1 per semester (Friday to Sunday)
  • Location: Irvine, CA; Santa Monica, CA; Miami, FL; Orlando, FL

East Coast

• New England College
  • On-Site Requirement: 1 per semester (Friday to Sunday)
  • Location: Henniker, NH

• McDaniel College
  • On-Site Requirement: 1 per semester (Friday to Sunday)
  • Location: Westminster, MD

Midwest

• Ottawa University

• On-Site Requirement: 1 per semester for master’s students; 2 per semester for doctoral students (Friday to Sunday)
• Location: Ottawa, KS; Surprise, AZ; Brookfield, WI

South

• National Louis University
  • On-Site Requirement: 1 per quarter for master’s students; 1 per semester for doctoral students (Friday to Sunday)
  • Location: Tampa, FL; Chicago, IL
• Tennessee Wesleyan University

• On-Site Requirement: 1 per semester (Friday to Sunday)
• Location: Knoxville, TN

For more information, see:

How to Choose a Day 1 CPT School by On-Site Frequency

Conclusion

While Day 1 CPT students can take most classes online, they still need to meet the minimum on-site requirements to comply with immigration laws. Some schools may allow students to make up for missing a single on-site session, but it is best to avoid absences to prevent any unforeseen complications. Thus, it is important to plan your schedule in advance at the start of each semester.

For more information and personalized guidance, explore our comprehensive list of Day 1 CPT universities and book a free consultation with us. We will help you find the most suitable school and program to meet your needs!