Day 1 CPT Guide

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Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is an employment authorization program in the United States for international students on F-1 student visas. It allows students to gain practical work experience directly related to their field of study as an integral part of their academic program.

This regulation allows students to find full or part-time paid employment off campus. This is a great opportunity for students to build a career while they study. Learn more about CPT regulation at the Department of Homeland Security.
Day 1 CPT refers to the option for students to begin their CPT employment from the first day of their academic program. This provides international students with the opportunity to gain valuable work experience while pursuing their degree.

In most programs, students are required to complete a minimum amount of schooling before being eligible for CPT, typically 9 months or 1 full academic year. In a Day-1 CPT program, the CPT is integral to the program which allows the DSO to approve it from day 1.

Many students are under the impression that to enroll in a Day 1 CPT program they first have to complete a different degree in the United States. This is not the case as students can enroll and participate in Day 1 CPT when coming directly from their home country.
Yes, CPT is a legal form of employment authorization for international students studying in the United States. However, it is essential to follow the regulations set by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and maintain F-1 status throughout the CPT period.
CPT allows international students to work off-campus in paid or unpaid internships, cooperative education programs, or other types of work experience directly related to their field of study. Students must receive authorization from their Designated School Official (DSO) and obtain the necessary documentation before engaging in CPT.

Once on CPT students will be required to reauthorize the CPT in accordance with the policy set forth by the university they are attending. At our partner universities, students are only required to reauthorize their CPT 1 time per year. This provides a better experience for you as a student.
When considering a Day 1 CPT university, students should thoroughly evaluate several factors to ensure they have a fulfilling academic and professional experience. Here's a detailed breakdown of what to look for:

Program Offerings: Look for universities that offer programs aligned with your career goals and interests. Check if they have a strong reputation in your field of study and if the curriculum includes practical components relevant to your career aspirations.

Accreditation: Choose a university that is accredited by recognized accrediting bodies. Accreditation ensures that the institution meets certain standards of quality and that your degree will be recognized by employers and other institutions. All of our universities are nationally and regionally accredited.

CPT Policies: Review the university's policies regarding CPT carefully. Ensure that they offer Day 1 CPT and understand the specific requirements and limitations. Our universities require CPT renewal only 1 time per year and allow students to live and work anywhere in the United States.

Location and On-Campus Frequency: Consider the location of the university and its on-campus frequency. Our universities offer numerous campus locations providing flexibility in your choices. The on-campus frequency will also provide you with more flexibility in your program and allow you more freedom to choose where you live and work. Our universities offer on-campus frequency as limited as 1 weekend per semester!

Tuition: Evaluate the cost of tuition, living expenses, and potential earning opportunities through CPT. Tuition can range from one university to another. All of our universities offer affordable degree programs with tuition as low as $3000 per quarter.
International students pursuing degrees in the United States benefit from CPT as it provides them with practical work experience, enhances their skills, and allows them to explore career opportunities in their field of study.

Immediate Work Authorization: Day 1 CPT allows students to begin their practical work experience from the first day of their academic program, providing immediate employment opportunities.

Gain Practical Experience: Day 1 CPT enables students to gain valuable practical work experience directly related to their field of study, enhancing their skillset and knowledge in real-world settings.

Enhanced Learning: Engaging in CPT allows students to apply theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom to practical work scenarios, reinforcing their understanding and learning outcomes.

Networking Opportunities: Day 1 CPT provides students with opportunities to network with professionals in their industry, build professional relationships, and expand their professional network for future career prospects.

Financial Support: Participating in Day 1 CPT allows students to earn income through employment, providing financial support to cover living expenses, tuition fees, and other educational costs.

Career Development: Day 1 CPT experience enhances students' resumes, making them more competitive in the job market upon graduation. It demonstrates practical skills and hands-on experience to potential employers.

Employment Flexibility: Day 1 CPT offers flexibility in employment options, allowing students to explore various internship opportunities, part-time or full-time positions, and industry sectors aligned with their career goals.

Immigration Compliance: Day 1 CPT is a legal form of employment authorization for international students studying in the United States, ensuring compliance with immigration regulations while gaining practical work experience.

Integration into U.S. Work Culture: Engaging in Day 1 CPT provides international students with exposure to the U.S. work culture, professional norms, and workplace dynamics, facilitating their integration into the American workforce.

Pathway to OPT and Career Opportunities: Day 1 CPT experience can serve as a stepping stone to Optional Practical Training (OPT) and other long-term career opportunities in the United States, enhancing students' prospects for future employment and immigration pathways.

Overall, Day 1 CPT offers numerous benefits for international students seeking practical work experience while pursuing their academic goals in the United States, contributing to their personal, academic, and professional development.
One of the common questions among international students is whether they can participate in both Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) during their academic journey in the United States. Let's delve into this topic to provide clarity on the matter.

Understanding CPT and OPT

Before discussing whether a student can do both CPT and OPT, it's essential to understand the differences between the two programs:

CPT (Curricular Practical Training): CPT is an employment authorization that allows international students to gain practical work experience directly related to their field of study as part of their academic program. It can be undertaken during the student's program of study and requires authorization from the Designated School Official (DSO) and compliance with USCIS regulations.

OPT (Optional Practical Training): OPT, on the other hand, is an employment authorization available to F-1 students upon completion of their academic program. It allows students to gain practical work experience in their field of study for up to 12 months (or 24 months for certain STEM degrees) and requires application to USCIS for approval.

Can a Student Do Both CPT and OPT?

The short answer is yes, under certain circumstances, a student can participate in both CPT and OPT during their academic journey in the United States. However, it's essential to consider the following:

CPT During the Academic Program: International students can engage in CPT during their academic program, provided it is an integral part of their curriculum and directly related to their field of study. The employment must be authorized by the DSO, and the student must maintain F-1 status.

OPT After Completion of the Academic Program: Upon completion of their academic program, international students are eligible to apply for OPT to gain additional practical work experience in their field of study. OPT requires approval from USCIS and must be completed within specific timelines and regulations.

Timing and Duration: International students must carefully consider the timing and duration of both CPT and OPT to ensure compliance with regulations and maximize their opportunities for practical work experience while maintaining F-1 status.

STEM OPT Extension: For students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, there is an option to apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension after completing the initial 12-month OPT period.
An H1B visa is a work visa in the United States designated for foreign nationals with specialized skills, typically requiring at least a bachelor's degree or equivalent. It allows individuals to work temporarily for a specific employer in a specialized field. On the other hand, an F1 visa is designed for international students seeking to pursue academic programs at accredited U.S. institutions. It grants students the opportunity to reside in the U.S. temporarily and engage in academic studies, as well as authorized practical training related to their field of study.

There are several reasons why individuals may consider transferring their visa status from an H1B to an F1:

Return to Education: Individuals who desire to further their education or pursue a different academic field may choose to transition from H1B to F1 visa status to enroll in a full-time academic program at a university or college in the U.S.

Employment Transition: If an H1B visa holder experiences job loss or faces difficulties finding employment, switching to F1 visa status allows them to maintain legal status in the U.S. while they pursue educational opportunities and potentially re-enter the job market with updated skills and qualifications.

Extended Stay for Dependents: In some cases, dependents of H1B visa holders may seek educational opportunities in the U.S. by transferring their visa status to F1. This allows them to accompany the primary visa holder while pursuing their own academic goals.

Career Change or Advancement: Transitioning from H1B to F1 visa status may be beneficial for individuals seeking to make a career change or advance in their current field by acquiring new skills, expertise, or credentials through higher education in the U.S.

Flexibility in Employment Opportunities: F1 visa holders have the option to engage in practical training opportunities such as Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT), which can provide valuable work experience and enhance employment prospects upon graduation.

Overall, transferring visa status from H1B to F1 offers individuals the opportunity to pursue educational and career goals, gain valuable experience, and broaden their opportunities for personal and professional growth in the United States.

Yes, you can transfer your SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record to a new institution if you plan to change schools within the United States. You must notify your current school's designated school official (DSO) of your intention to transfer and provide the necessary information to your new institution's DSO.
Yes, you can change employers during Curricular Practical Training (CPT) as long as the new position is directly related to your field of study and approved by your academic advisor and designated school official (DSO). Before making any changes, it's crucial to consult with your DSO to ensure compliance with immigration regulations and update your Form I-20 accordingly.
Yes, F1 visa holders enrolled in a program with integral CPT are eligible for off-campus employment opportunities. The student can choose if they would like to participate in part-time or full-time CPT.
If your F1 visa is expiring but you still have a valid Form I-20 and continue to maintain your status as a student in the United States, you do not need to renew your visa until you plan to travel outside the country and re-enter. However, if your visa has expired and you need to travel internationally, you will need to apply for a new visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad before returning to the United States. It's essential to plan ahead and consult with your designated school official (DSO) or immigration advisor for guidance on visa renewal procedures.
No, there is no application fee to apply at Harrisburg University, Ottawa University, National Louis University or Humphreys University. Our team of admissions counselors are dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth transition to your desired academic and professional goals.