Reminder
The term “Day 1 CPT universities” generally refers to institutions that allow eligible international students to apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) beginning in their first semester of study, provided that the program includes an integrated practical component. While some schools may support early CPT access, approval is not guaranteed on the first day and depends on the timely and accurate submission of required documentation. CPT authorization typically takes 5 to 15 business days after the complete application is submitted and reviewed.
- All Schools
- McDaniel College
McDaniel College founded in 1867 in Westminster, Maryland, is a nationally accredited liberal arts college with about 3,000 students. Known for small classes and a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, it offers affordable, high-quality education with a focus on personalized learning and student success.
Type:
Private Non-Profit
Regional Accreditation:
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
US News Ranking:
#72 in Regional Universities North (tie)
🌟 Quick Guide
- FAQs
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🧭 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 studies 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).
Eligibility
- All Day 1 CPT applicants must maintain a valid F‑1 status and have a related job offer at the time of application.
- For initial students, CPT is available starting from the first day of the program, but only if the job directly relates to their field of study.
- COS students are also eligible for Day 1 CPT. But students who need to restate their F‑1 status via SEVIS reinstatement are not eligible for CPT.
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 the 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 per 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 $50 enrollment credit from us!
💳 Tuition & Scholarships at McDaniel College
MSDA Tuition
- Credit hours are billed at $700/credit
- Total Semester Estimate: $3,500 (6 credits)
- Total Annual Estimate: $12,600 (3 semesters)
- Total Program Estimate: $21,000 (30 credits)
Other Fees
- Enrollment Deposit (Applies to Tuition): None
- One Time Fee: $208
- I-20 Fee: None
- Recurrent Fees: $412 /Semester
If you have more questions about tuition for the MSDA program at McDaniel College, please contact us immediately!
📅 Important Dates at McDaniel College
Program Start Dates
|
Spring 2026 |
Summer 1 2026 Summer 2025 Summer 2 2026 |
Fall 2026 |
Every term is open for enrollment (5 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 miss the deadline, please contact us. As the official recruitment partner of McDaniel College, we can help you accelerate your application.)
Can I apply to McDaniel University without a job offer?
Yes, students can apply to McDaniel College without a job offer, but they 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.
Are multiple jobs on CPT allowed?
Yes, multiple jobs are allowed.
Are semester breaks on CPT allowed?
Yes, students may take one semester break, typically during the summer term.
Choosing this option will extend the total program duration to approximately 24 months.
McDaniel College
Location:
- Westminster, MD
Tuition:
- From $700 / credit hour
- From $12,600 / year
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Program Start Dates:
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