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Reminder
The term “Day 1 CPT universities” generally refers to institutions that allow eligible 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
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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