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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
- 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
The MS Business Data Analytics program is a 15-month, 5-quarter, 30-credit, STEM-designated, full-time hybrid program. Each quarter you will take two 3-credit courses (one course is fully online and the other includes a face-to-face, on-campus weekend session once per quarter. You will take one class at a time)—total 30 credits; 6 credits per quarter; 4 quarters per year.
The MS Organizational Leadership program is a 15-month, 5-quarter, 30-credit, full-time hybrid program. Each quarter you will take two 3-credit courses (one course is fully online and the other includes a face-to-face, on-campus weekend session once per quarter. You will take one class at a time)—total 30 credits; 6 credits per quarter; 4 quarters per year. The first intake will begin in the Winter Term on January 19, 2026. This program is an excellent option for students seeking to advance their leadership skills and prepare for management roles across diverse industries.
The DBA program is a 60-semester-hour program with research and capstone coursework. It is a full-time hybrid program. Each semester you will take two 3-credit courses (one course is fully online and the other includes a face-to-face, on-campus weekend session component. You will take one course at a time—a total of 60 credits + dissertation; 6 credits per semester; 3 semesters per year.
Program Format
Hybrid format. Attend on-campus sessions one weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) at the beginning of each semester/quarter. The rest of the time you will participate in classes online via the university's learning management system.
Semester Cost
MS Quarter cost: $4740 (5 total quarters). The tuition is the same every quarter and must be paid in full by the start of each quarter. The total program cost is $23,700.00.
DBA Semester cost: $4992. (10 semesters + dissertation). The semester tuition is the same every semester and must be paid in full by the start of each semester. The total program cost is $49,920.00 (international student rate).
If you apply through us, you will get a $50 enrollment credit from us.
📅 Important Dates at National Louis University
MS Business Data Analytics Programs Start Dates
2025 Fall - September 22 |
2026 Winter - January 19 |
2026 Spring - April 13 |
2026 Summer - July 6 |
Every term is open for enrollment. (4 enrollment windows in an academic year.)
MS Organizational Leadership Programs Start Dates
2026 Winter - January 19 (Tampa) |
2026 Spring - April 13 (Tampa) |
2026 Summer - July 6 (Tampa) |
2026 Fall - September 21 (Tampa) |
Every term is open for enrollment. (4 enrollment windows in an academic year.)
DBA Program Start Dates
2026 Winter - January 12 (Tampa) |
2026 Summer - May 4 (Tampa) |
2026 Fall - August 24 (Tampa) |
Every term 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 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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