Day 1 CPT for International Students in the US

While Day 1 CPT is legal, it's essential to choose a reliable university and follow the rules to avoid potential risks, such as visa renewal issues. Planning ahead and seeking professional guidance can mitigate these risks. Get helps>

a. Status Change Risk

It is uncommon that Day 1 CPT will impact the approval of H1b visa. However, when an international student currently working through Day 1 CPT and is then granted H1b visa, the USCIS may request for extra evidence (RFE) to prove that the student has been maintaining legal status. This is why you should not work without a CPT status.

For example, if a STEM master's graduate has used up the 3-year work authorization through OPT, and then enrolls in another master's program with Day 1 CPT, this student may be requested to provide evidence that the second master's program requires attendance onsite (instead of 100% online) after being selected for the H1b visa.

Typically, when the extra evidence is requested, the school will explain the situation with a letter. In this letter, the school will state that the work experience with CPT is mandatory for the completion of the master's program, and the student is required to start working on the first day of class. Please see below for an excerpt from the Westcliff University’s student handbook, which explicitly states that all the master's programs must complete an internship prior to graduation.

If the school is able to provide such letter, plus the transcript, attendance record and other supporting material, the USCIS will likely approve the case based on our experience. However, USCIS may reject the status change request in the US and ask the student to apply for the H1b visa outside the US.

Additionally, USCIS normally will not request extra evidence if a college graduate attends a master's program and apply for Day 1 CPT or a master's graduate attends a doctoral program and apply for Day 1 CPT.

Attached is a figure from page 32 of the official school catalog
(Westcliff University)

b. F-1 visa renewal risks

Although the Day 1 CPT program is established under the framework of US immigrations laws and regulations, which is legal and compliant, it could not grant a student to work excessively in terms of time. If the student works excessively, the visa officer may believe that the student's intention to enter the US is to maintain a job or to find a new job while renewing F-1 visa. In this case, it is generally recommended to apply for the H1b visa and then leave the US. If the F-1 visa has already expired and the students is required to obtain a visa outside the US, it is important to contact the school advisor or immigration lawyers in advance to prepare all the necessary visa materials and questions from the visa officer.

1. Students need to have a job offer letter before submitting their applications (Click here to view Top CPT Employers in the U.S.)

2. Students need to register for a program that requires CPT, submit the CPT application prior to the school's deadline along with the offer letter and a CPT agreement between the school and the employer (it may be required by some schools)

3. Wait for the CPT application to be approved by the school and receive the new I-20. Note that students must wait until the CPT takes effect before start working.

4. Before the end of the each semester, pay attention to the renewal email from school and apply for the CPT renewal on time

🚨 Accreditation and Legitimacy: Ensure that the university is accredited by a recognized accrediting body. Accreditation ensures that the institution meets specific educational standards and that your degree will be recognized by employers and other educational institutions.

📑 Program Relevance: Choose a program that aligns with your career goals and field of interest. Look for courses that offer practical experience and opportunities to work on real-world projects. (➡️ View complete Day 1 CPT programs list)

📍 Location: Consider the university's location in relation to your current location or potential job opportunities, cost of living, and your lifestyle preferences. (➡️ Find Day 1 CPT universities near you)

✈️ On-Site Requirements: Some universities may require on-site attendance for certain classes or activities. Understand these requirements to ensure they fit your schedule and preferences.

💰 Tuition and Financial Aid: Compare tuition costs and available financial aid options. Look for scholarships or work-study opportunities that may be available to international students. (➡️ Find cheapest Day 1 CPT universities)

⚖️ Compliance with Immigration Regulations: Make sure the university complies with all USCIS regulations related to Day 1 CPT. Consult with an immigration lawyer or expert if needed.

🙌 Support Services for International Students: Look for universities that offer robust support services for international students, including orientation programs, counseling, and assistance with legal and cultural adjustments.