Key Takeaways
• Day 1 CPT lets graduate students work from day one if their curriculum requires it under 8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(i).
• Day 1 CPT universities exist in 21 states, mainly California, New York, Texas, with tuition from $8,000 to $50,000+.
• Students must choose SEVP-certified, regionally accredited universities with STEM options for better work authorization benefits.
Day 1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a unique opportunity for international students who want to start working in the United States 🇺🇸 as soon as they begin their graduate studies. Unlike traditional CPT, which requires students to finish one academic year before working, Day 1 CPT lets you start work from your first day—if your program requires practical training as part of the curriculum. This guide will walk you through every step of choosing a Day 1 CPT university, understanding the rules, and making the best decision for your future.
1. Understand the Purpose and Legal Foundation of Day 1 CPT
Before you start searching for universities, it’s important to know what Day 1 CPT is and how it works under U.S. 🇺🇸 immigration law.
- Day 1 CPT allows certain graduate students to work from the first day of their program if the work is required by their curriculum.
- The legal rule behind Day 1 CPT is found in 8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(i). This regulation says that students in graduate programs that require immediate practical training can skip the usual one-year waiting period.
- Universities must be SEVP-certified (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) and the program must clearly require practical training as part of the coursework.
- Students must stay enrolled full-time and the job must relate directly to their field of study.
Recent Updates: The U.S. government has started looking more closely at Day 1 CPT programs. This means you need to be very careful about picking a university that follows all the rules and has a good reputation.
Time Estimate: Spend 1-2 days reading about Day 1 CPT and checking the latest updates on the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) website.
Common Pitfall: Choosing a university that isn’t SEVP-certified or doesn’t have proper accreditation can lead to losing your F-1 visa status.
2. Research Day 1 CPT Universities by State
Complete Day 1 CPT Universities Table by State
| State | University | Location | Annual Tuition | Programs | On-site Requirements | Enrollment Windows | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Westcliff University | Irvine, Santa Monica, San Francisco | $14,000 – $30,000 | MBA (STEM), MS Computer Science, MS Information Technology, MS Engineering Management, DBA, EdD | Monthly | 6 per year | WASC |
| California | Sofia University | Palo Alto, Costa Mesa | $11,000 – $28,000 | MBA, MS Computer Science (STEM), DBA | Monthly | 4 per year | WASC |
| California | California Institute of Advanced Management (CIAM) | Alhambra | $13,000+ | MBA | Twice per semester | 6 per year | WASC |
| California | Humphreys University | Stockton | $10,000 – $21,000 | MBA-IT | Once per semester | 4 per year | WASC |
| New York | Monroe University | New Rochelle | $12,000 – $38,000 | MBA, MS Computer Science (STEM), MS Data Science (STEM) | Monthly | 4 per year | MSCHE |
| Pennsylvania | Harrisburg University | Harrisburg, Philadelphia | $16,000 – $35,000 | MS Analytics, MS Computer Information Systems, MS Healthcare Informatics, MS Project Management | Monthly | 6 per year | MSCHE |
| New Hampshire | New England College | Henniker | $9,000 – $20,000 | Executive MBA, MS Information Technology, MS Project Management, MS Data Analytics | Once per semester | 4 per year | NECHE |
| Maryland | McDaniel College | Westminster | $10,000 – $20,000 | MS Data Analytics | Once per semester | 3 per year | MSCHE |
| Delaware | Goldey-Beacom College | Wilmington | $11,000 – $22,000 | MBA, MS Finance, MS Management, MS Taxation | Monthly | 4 per year | MSCHE |
| Kentucky | University of the Cumberlands | Williamsburg | $17,000 – $46,000 | MBA, MS Information Technology, MS Project Management, PhD programs | Monthly | 4 per year | SACSCOC |
| Kentucky | Campbellsville University | Campbellsville | $10,000 – $20,000 | Professional MBA, MS Technology | Monthly | 4 per year | SACSCOC |
| Kentucky | Sullivan University | Louisville | $15,000 – $25,000 | MBA, MS Information Technology, Doctoral programs | Monthly | 4 per year | SACSCOC |
| Tennessee | Tennessee Wesleyan University | Knoxville | $9,000 – $12,000 | MBA, MS Information Technology Management, MS Artificial Intelligence | Once per semester | 6 per year | SACSCOC |
| Texas | Dallas Baptist University | Dallas | $22,000 – $51,000 | MBA (STEM), MS Technology Management | Bi-weekly | 3 per year | SACSCOC |
| Texas | Texas Wesleyan University | Fort Worth | $15,000 | MBA, MS Information Technology Management | Monthly | 4 per year | SACSCOC |
| North Carolina | North Carolina Wesleyan University | Rocky Mount | $8,000 – $9,000 | MBA, MS Information Technology | Monthly | 4 per year | SACSCOC |
| Illinois | National Louis University | Chicago | $15,000 – $50,000 | DBA, MS Business Data Analytics (STEM), MS Organizational Leadership | Monthly | 4 per year | HLC |
| Florida | National Louis University | Tampa | $15,000 – $50,000 | DBA, MS Business Data Analytics (STEM), MS Organizational Leadership | Monthly | 4 per year | HLC |
| Indiana | Indiana Wesleyan University | Merrillville | $9,000 – $15,000 | MS Artificial Intelligence (STEM), MS Computer Information Systems (STEM), MS Data Analytics (STEM) | Monthly | 6 per year | HLC |
| Kansas | Ottawa University | Kansas City | $16,000 – $50,000 | Executive MBA, DBA | Monthly | 4 per year | HLC |
| Wisconsin | Ottawa University | Milwaukee | $16,000 – $50,000 | Executive MBA, DBA | Monthly | 4 per year | HLC |
| Arizona | Ottawa University | Phoenix | $16,000 – $50,000 | Executive MBA, DBA | Monthly | 4 per year | HLC |
| New Jersey | Saint Peter’s University | Jersey City | $18,000 – $35,000 | MS Data Science (STEM), MS Computer Science (STEM), MBA | Multiple times per semester | 4 per year | MSCHE |
| Massachusetts | Curry College | Milton | $16,000 – $30,000 | MS Information Technology, MBA | Monthly | 3 per year | NECHE |
| Washington D.C. | University of the Potomac | Washington D.C. | $13,000 – $28,000 | MBA, MS Information Technology, MS Project Management | Bi-weekly | 6 per year | MSCHE |
| Ohio | Trine University | Columbus | $9,000 – $42,000 | MS Engineering Management, MBA, MS Information Technology | Monthly | 4 per year | HLC |
| Michigan | Trine University | Detroit | $9,000 – $42,000 | MS Engineering Management, MBA, MS Information Technology | Monthly | 4 per year | HLC |
| Georgia | Trine University | Atlanta | $9,000 – $42,000 | MS Engineering Management, MBA, MS Information Technology | Monthly | 4 per year | HLC |
Key Statistics
- Total Universities: 28 institutions
- States Covered: 22 states plus Washington D.C.
- Leading States: California (4 universities), Kentucky (3 universities)
- Most Affordable: North Carolina Wesleyan University ($8,000-$9,000)
- STEM Programs: 8 universities offer STEM-designated programs
- Maximum Flexibility: 6 universities offer 6 enrollment windows per year
Day 1 CPT universities are not available in every state. As of 2025, they are found in 21 states plus Washington D.C., with the largest number in California. Here’s how to research your options:
Step 2.1: Identify States with Day 1 CPT Universities
- West Coast: California is the leader, with four major universities.
- East Coast: New York, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, Maryland, and Delaware have strong options.
- South: Kentucky, Tennessee, Texas, and North Carolina offer several choices.
- Midwest: Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, and Wisconsin have universities with Day 1 CPT programs.
Step 2.2: Compare University Offerings
When comparing universities, look at:
- Tuition costs: Ranges from $8,000 to over $50,000 per year.
- Program types: Most offer MBAs, STEM programs (like Computer Science, Data Analytics), and some doctoral degrees.
- Accreditation: Make sure the university is regionally accredited.
- On-site requirements: Some require you to visit campus monthly, others only once per semester.
- Enrollment windows: Some universities let you start at six different times each year, others only three or four.
Time Estimate: Spend 3-5 days making a list of universities in your preferred states and comparing their programs.
Common Pitfall: Focusing only on tuition and ignoring on-site attendance requirements can lead to problems with your work schedule or visa compliance.
3. Check Accreditation and Compliance
Accreditation is one of the most important factors when choosing a Day 1 CPT university. It proves that the university meets high academic standards and follows immigration rules.
Step 3.1: Verify Regional Accreditation
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE): Accredits the most Day 1 CPT universities.
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC): Another major accreditor.
- Other regional accreditors: WASC, NECHE, and more.
How to Check: Visit the university’s website or the accreditor’s official site to confirm accreditation status.
Step 3.2: Confirm SEVP Certification
- Only SEVP-certified schools can issue the I-20 form needed for F-1 visas.
- You can check SEVP certification on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s official list.
Time Estimate: 1-2 days to check accreditation and SEVP status for your shortlisted universities.
Common Pitfall: Enrolling in a school with questionable accreditation can cause problems with your visa and future job applications.
4. Evaluate Program Types and STEM Designation
Day 1 CPT universities offer a wide range of programs. The most popular are MBAs and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) degrees.
Step 4.1: Match Programs to Your Career Goals
- MBA: Good for students without a business background.
- STEM programs: Computer Science, Data Analytics, Engineering Management, and more. These often allow for longer work authorization after graduation (up to 3 years of OPT).
- Doctoral programs: For students with a master’s degree who want to advance further.
Step 4.2: Check for STEM Designation
- STEM programs are especially valuable because they offer longer Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation.
- Make sure the program is officially recognized as STEM by the university and listed on your I-20 form.
Time Estimate: 2-3 days to review program details and confirm STEM status.
Common Pitfall: Choosing a program too similar to your previous degree can raise red flags during visa or H-1B applications.
5. Review Tuition, Fees, and Cost of Living
Tuition is only part of the total cost. You also need to consider living expenses, travel for on-site visits, and other fees.
Step 5.1: Compare Tuition Rates
- Most affordable: North Carolina Wesleyan University ($8,000-$9,000/year), Tennessee Wesleyan University ($9,000-$12,000/year), Indiana Wesleyan University ($9,000-$15,000/year).
- Mid-range: $10,000-$20,000/year at schools like McDaniel College and Campbellsville University.
- Premium: Over $20,000/year at Dallas Baptist University and Saint Peter’s University.
Step 5.2: Factor in Living Costs
- Living in big cities like San Francisco or New York is much more expensive than smaller towns.
- Some universities offer monthly payment plans to help with budgeting.
Time Estimate: 2-3 days to calculate total costs and compare options.
Common Pitfall: Underestimating travel costs for required on-site visits.
6. Understand On-Site Attendance and Enrollment Windows
Each university has its own rules for how often you must visit campus. This is important for staying in compliance with your F-1 visa.
Step 6.1: On-Site Attendance Requirements
- Most flexible: One visit per semester (New England College, McDaniel College, Tennessee Wesleyan University).
- Monthly visits: Sofia University, Monroe University, Harrisburg University.
- More frequent: Bi-weekly or multiple times per semester at some schools.
Step 6.2: Enrollment Windows
- Six times per year: Westcliff University, CIAM, Indiana Wesleyan University, Harrisburg University.
- Four times per year: Most universities.
- Three times per year: McDaniel College, Curry College, Dallas Baptist University.
Time Estimate: 1-2 days to review and plan for attendance and enrollment timing.
Common Pitfall: Missing an on-site visit can result in immediate dismissal and loss of F-1 status.
7. Consider Regional Advantages and Strategic Factors
Where you study can affect your job opportunities, cost of living, and even how your application is viewed by immigration officials.
Step 7.1: Proximity to Job Markets
- California universities: Close to Silicon Valley and tech companies.
- East Coast schools: Near financial centers and government jobs.
- Smaller cities: Lower living costs but fewer job opportunities.
Step 7.2: Immigration and Compliance
- Choose a university close to where you plan to work. This helps show your academic intent is genuine.
- Avoid picking a university just for immigration reasons, as this can lead to extra scrutiny.
Time Estimate: 1-2 days to weigh regional pros and cons.
Common Pitfall: Enrolling in a university far from your job location can raise questions during future visa applications.
8. Prepare for Regulatory Changes and Future Trends
Day 1 CPT rules and enforcement can change. Stay informed and choose universities with strong compliance records.
Step 8.1: Monitor Policy Updates
- The U.S. government is increasing scrutiny of Day 1 CPT programs.
- Choose universities with low Request for Evidence (RFE) rates during H-1B applications. For example, Tennessee Wesleyan University is known for its low RFE rate.
Step 8.2: Look for Growing STEM Opportunities
- More universities are adding STEM programs to meet demand.
- STEM degrees offer longer work authorization after graduation.
Time Estimate: Ongoing—check for updates every few months.
Common Pitfall: Ignoring policy changes can put your visa status at risk.
9. Application Process and Required Forms
Applying to a Day 1 CPT university involves several steps:
Step 9.1: Gather Documents
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- English language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS)
- Resume/CV
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
Step 9.2: Apply to the University
- Complete the university’s online application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit all required documents.
Step 9.3: Receive I-20 Form
- Once accepted, the university will issue an I-20 form. This is needed to apply for your F-1 visa.
- You can find more information about the I-20 form on the U.S. Department of State website.
Step 9.4: Apply for F-1 Visa
- Complete the DS-160 form online. Access the official DS-160 form here.
- Pay the SEVIS fee and schedule your visa interview.
Time Estimate: 4-8 weeks from application to visa approval.
Common Pitfall: Missing document deadlines or submitting incomplete applications can delay your start date.
10. Troubleshooting and Common Mistakes
Even with careful planning, problems can happen. Here’s how to handle common issues:
- RFE (Request for Evidence): If you get an RFE during your H-1B application, work with your university’s international office to provide strong documentation.
- Missed on-site visit: Contact your university immediately to explain and see if a make-up visit is possible.
- Program not STEM-designated: Double-check with the university before enrolling. Ask for written confirmation.
- Accreditation concerns: If you have doubts, check with the accrediting agency directly.
11. Checklist Summary
Before you make your final decision, use this checklist:
- [ ] Confirm the university is SEVP-certified and regionally accredited
- [ ] Make sure the program requires practical training from Day 1
- [ ] Check tuition, fees, and living costs
- [ ] Understand on-site attendance and enrollment windows
- [ ] Choose a program that matches your career goals and is STEM-designated if needed
- [ ] Consider the university’s location and its proximity to your job
- [ ] Review the university’s compliance record and RFE rates
- [ ] Gather all application documents and apply on time
- [ ] Stay updated on policy changes
Final Takeaways
Choosing a Day 1 CPT university in the United States 🇺🇸 is a big decision that can shape your career and immigration future. Focus on accredited, SEVP-certified schools with strong compliance records. Match your program to your career goals, and always plan for both tuition and living costs. Stay informed about policy changes and keep all your documents up to date.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the Day 1 CPT landscape is always changing, so careful research and planning are more important than ever. For more details on CPT rules and updates, visit the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement official CPT page.
By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your Day 1 CPT opportunity and start your career in the United States 🇺🇸 with confidence.
Learn Today
Day 1 CPT → Work authorization allowing certain graduate students to start employment from their first program day if required by curriculum.
SEVP-certified → Universities approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program to enroll and issue I-20 forms to F-1 students.
I-20 Form → Official document issued by SEVP-certified schools required for applying for an F-1 student visa.
STEM Designation → Recognition for programs in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math allowing extended Optional Practical Training work periods.
Request for Evidence (RFE) → A USCIS request for additional documentation during visa or petition processing to confirm eligibility or compliance.
This Article in a Nutshell
Day 1 CPT enables immediate work authorization for eligible international graduate students in the U.S. Selecting certified, accredited universities with STEM programs is key to success and compliance while balancing tuition, living costs, and changing regulations impacting visa and employment opportunities.
— By VisaVerge.com
