.png?width=450&height=450&name=Logo%20of%20D1CU%20(2).png)
Reminder
The term "Day 1 CPT Universities" is not officially recognized. Instead, it typically refers to universities that allow students to apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) from their first semester. However, obtaining CPT approval at the day one of the program is not guaranteed and depends on the timely submission and completeness of the application documents. Typically, it takes 5-15 business days to receive CPT approval after the documents have been received.
- All Schools
- McDaniel College

McDaniel College is a private college in Westminster, Maryland. Established in 1867, it was known as Western Maryland College until 2002 when it was renamed McDaniel College in honor of an alumnus who gave a lifetime of service to the college. McDaniel College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Founded as one of the nation’s first independent, coeducational institutions of higher learning, McDaniel College’s evolution is characterized by academic excellence, extraordinary administrative and faculty dedication and resourcefulness, and increasing student selectivity and diversity.
Type:
Private Nonprofit
Regional Accreditation:
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
US News Ranking:
#40 in Regional Universities North (tie)
🌟 Quick Guide
- FAQs
🙌 Apply for McDaniel College Today!
Fast Admission 1-on-1 Guidance Designated Advisor
🧭 Day 1 CPT Policy at McDaniel College
CPT may be authorized when an internship is a requirement of the degree program (i.e., all students in the program must complete the internship to obtain the degree). CPT can be authorized for full-time employment or part-time employment, but please note that if 12 months or more of full-time CPT is used, a student forfeits his or her OPT eligibility. Proof of course enrollment for this type of CPT is not required. Follow the application procedures to request CPT based on degree requirements. Authorization is granted on a per academic year basis.
The MS Data Analytics program matches the above criteria. This means that international students enrolled in this program will be eligible for CPT authorization and must work in a field related to their study to satisfy the degree requirements of the program. In order to ensure that the selected internship/practical training experience is appropriate, all CPT must be approved both by an academic advisor and a Designated School Official (DSO).
How to apply for CPT authorization at McDaniel College?
A student must complete and sign the CPT Application and provide the following to both the student’s academic advisor and your international student advisor for approval:
- A completed and signed Cooperative Agreement from the employer, along with one of the following
-
- A current, official signed offer letter from the employer to the student on company letterhead that contains a detailed job description;
- Or a current, dated detailed job description on company letterhead listing the job title and responsibilities for the CPT position
Contact the Office of Graduate Admissions with questions and for the specific forms and details on the approval process.
If you have more questions about Day 1 CPT at McDaniel College, please contact us immediately!
There are 3 semesters in a year for Day 1 CPT Programs at McDaniel College: Fall, Spring, and Summer.
In each semester, international students must register for at least 2 courses (6 credits; including one online course and one hybrid course). Students may take one semester off after three consecutive semesters.
Onsite frequency: once a semester for on-site sessions of hybrid courses, these will take place on weekends (Friday to Sunday).
If you apply through us, you will get a $100 enrollment credit from us.
💳 Tuition & Scholarships at McDaniel College
MSDA Tuition
- Credit hours are billed at $693/credit
- Total Semester Estimate: $4,158 (6 credits)
- Total Annual Estimate: $12,474 (3 semesters)
- Total Program Estimate: $20,790 (30 credits)
Other Fees
- Administrative Fee: $108 / semester
- Practicum Fee: $204 / practicum
- Residency Fee: $208 / semester
If you have more questions about tuition for the MSDA program at McDaniel College, please contact us immediately!
Scholarships
Contact us for help securing scholarships at McDaniel College!
📅 Important Dates at McDaniel College
Program Start Dates
Spring 2025 |
Summer 2025 |
Fall 2025 |
Every semester is open for enrollment (3 enrollment windows in an academic year).
Application Deadline:
F1 transfer students (F1/OPT/CPT): 4 weeks before the first day of the term.
Others: 3 months before the first day of the term.
(If you missed the deadline, please contact us. As the official recruitment partner of McDaniel, we can help you accelerate your application.)
Which programs offer Day 1 CPT options McDaniel College?
The MS Data Analytics program at McDaniel College is eligible for CPT authorization form day 1.
Which Day 1 CPT programs are STEM-certified at McDaniel College?
The MS Data Analytics program at McDaniel College is STEM-certified.
Eligible students can look forward to an extended OPT period, lasting up to 36 months, post-graduation.
How often do I have to attend on-site sessions at McDaniel University?
International students in the MS Data Analytics program is required to attend one on-site session every semester. These sessions will take place on weekends (Friday to Sunday).
Are there scholarships at McDaniel College?
There are no scholarships available at McDaniel College. Contact us for help securing other scholarships for Day 1 CPT programs!
Can I apply to McDaniel University without a job offer?
Yes, students can apply to McDaniel College without a job offer, but will only become eligible for CPT authorization after acquiring a job offer. If no job offer is secured, students can satisfy degree requirements with practicum courses instead of CPT.
McDaniel College
Location:
- Westminster, MD
Tuition:
- From $693 / credit hour
- From $12,474 / year
- Learn more ➜
Program Start Dates:
.jpg?width=450&height=450&name=Logo%20of%20D1CU%20(3).jpg)
Full Day 1 CPT Universities List
Click here to view 30+ Day 1 CPT universities in different states
Scholarships & Payment Plans
Click here to explore extensive scholarships and financial aid
Get Free Assistance Now
We can help you with admission, fee waiver, and scholarships
Featured Articles
Studying and Working in the US

USCIS: FY 2026 H-1B Lottery Results Are Out! Approx. 40% are selected

Day-1 Green Card Support: How? Who? and Why?

Navigating Visa Challenges: How Day 1 CPT Can Keep Your Dreams Alive

What Could Trump’s Return Mean for U.S. Immigration Policies?
Upcoming Events
-
Mar 18 4:00PM PT / 7:00PM ET
OPT to CPT SEVIS Transfer: How to Navigate Every Step?
- OPT to hybrid professional program: how to transition?
- Accreditations, RFE support, scholarships, payment plans
- CPT application steps break down
- Live q&a with international admissions director
-
Mar 25 5:00PM PT / 8:00PM ET
Tax Pro Tips for F1(OPT/CPT) and H1B
- Determine your tax status, forms and deductions
- Tax guide for W2 employee, 1099 contractor & Remote Work
- Best tax filling apps for OPT, CPT and H1B
- Live Q&A with Certified CPA
-
Mar 27 4:00PM PT / 7:00PM ET
Harrisburg University Executive Hybrid Program Info Session
- No.1 destination for STEM field, 12 STEM programs
- Popular majors: AI, Project Mgmt, Engineering and more
- CPT policy, tuition and fees, and application details
- Live Q&A with university admissions
-
Apr 12 10:00AM PT / 1:00PM ET
H1B Alternative Solutions Summit
Didn't win the H1B lottery?
Explore all options to continue US Journey in 1 weekend—
Day 1 CPT, O1, employment-based green card, NIW, L1...
100% Online, Free, including:- Immigration Keynotes
- Case Study & Workshops
- University Info Sessions
- Speaker Booths
- Q&A and Live Consultation