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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
- National Louis University

National Louis University (NLU) is a private institution established in 1886 in Chicago, Illinois, offering over 60 programs through four colleges, with multiple campuses in Chicago and a regional campus in Tampa, Florida serving international students from 13 central counties. NLU, a pioneer in the National Kindergarten Movement, the National Parent Teacher Association, and early childhood education advocacy, has secured over $65 million for research in urban and childhood development, school improvement, and teacher preparation. Its notable alumni include Illinois state government officials, James Beard award winners, and 76 Golden Apple honorees from the National College of Education.
from $14,976 / year
Type:
Private Nonprofit
Regional Accreditation:
The Higher Learning Commission
US News Ranking:
#392-434 in National Ranking
🌟 Quick Guide
- FAQs
🙌 Apply for National Louis University Today!
Fast Admission 1-on-1 Guidance Designated Advisor
Program Terms
There are 4 quarters in a year for MS programs at National Louis University: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
There are 3 semesters in a year for the DBA program at National Louis University: Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Program Format
The hybrid format combines online courses with one on-campus experience per semester /quarter at the Florida campus (Tampa, FL) or Chicago campus (Chicago, IL). The on-campus experience is three days in length (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday), consisting of workshops, course orientations, course assignments and consultation with faculty members.
If you apply through us, you will get a $50 enrollment credit from us.
📅 Important Dates at National Louis University
MS Programs Start Dates
Winter 2025 |
Spring 2025 |
Summer 2025 |
Fall 2025 |
Every term is open for enrollment. (4 enrollment windows in an academic year.)
DBA Program Start Dates
Winter 2025 |
Summer 2025 |
|
|
Every term is open for enrollment. (2 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 misses the deadline, please contact us. As the official recruitment partner of National Louis University, we can help you accelerate your application.)
Which programs offer Day 1 CPT options at National Louis University?
The following programs at National Louis University offers CPT authorization from day 1:
Master
- MS Business Data Analytics
- MS Organizational Leadership
Doctor
- Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA)
Which Day 1 CPT programs are STEM-certified at National Louis Univeristy?
The MS Business Data Analytics program at National Louis University is STEM-certified.
How often do I have to be on-site at National Louis University?
Students in the MS programs are required to attend one 3-day (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) on-site session every quarter (four times a year).
Students in the DBA program are required to attend one 3-day (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) on-site session every semester (three semesters a year).
Are there scholarships at National Louis University?
There are no scholarships available at National Louis University. Contact us for help securing other scholarships for Day 1 CPT programs!
Can I apply to National Louis University without a job offer?
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Upcoming Events
-
May 8 5:00PM PT / 8:00PM ET
H1B Not Selected Is Hybrid CPT Programs A Legitimate Option?
- USCIS Rules and Terms with CPT you should know
- Location, tuition, majors and scholarships
- Accreditations, RFE program, CPT Policies
- Live q&a with international admissions director
-
May 13 6:00PM PT / 9:00PM ET
Top 7 Things You Must Know Before Join A Professional CPT Program
- Key decision factors: accreditation, program, modality
- Understanding USCIS rules with CPT from day 1
- Risks you should avoid when using CPT to work
- Live q&a with SEVP certified DSO
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May 15 4:00PM PT / 7:00PM ET
F1 to O1 or NIW, Which path is right for you?
- F1 to green card: priority dates, visa bulletin & self-petitions
- H1B not selected, is Day 1 CPT good for me?
- O1 vs Self-petition green card
- Live q&a with immigration attorney
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May 20 5:00PM PT / 8:00PM ET
Self-Petition Green Card The EB-2 NIW Do-It-Yourself Guide
- What is EB-2 NIW and why is it favored by international talents working in the U.S.
- Qualifications in a simple language: How to know if I can apply?
- Fee structure: all possible expenses break down
- Form details and document checklist according to USCIS website