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Studying in the U.S.: An Introduction to Day 1 CPT (Curricular Practical Training from Day One)

Day 1 CPT (Curricular Practical Training, i.e. “practical training from the first day of your program”) is a type of internship authorization available to F-1 student visa holders in the U.S. It lets international students pursuing certain degrees in the U.S. take part in work or internships related to their program from the first day of their studies.

Key features of Day 1 CPT

  1. Start an internship/job right away: Traditional CPT usually requires students to finish at least one year of study before they can take part, while “Day 1 CPT” lets students start an internship right after their first day of class.
  2. Work tied to the program: Day 1 CPT must be directly related to the student's program. Schools usually build CPT into the academic program and require students to take classes and work at the same time.
  3. Full-time or part-time:
    • Part-time CPT: No more than 20 hours a week, usually during the semester.
    • Full-time CPT: More than 20 hours a week, usually during breaks or under specific program arrangements.
  4. Time limit: If a student uses more than 12 months of CPT in total at the same degree level, they lose eligibility for OPT (Optional Practical Training) after graduation.

Who Day 1 CPT is for

  • International students who want to work while they study.
  • Professionals whose H-1B or other visa was denied and who choose to keep working in the U.S. as F-1 students.
  • F-1 students who need to keep their legal status and have a source of income.

Potential risks of Day 1 CPT

  • Scrutiny from USCIS: USCIS has reservations about Day 1 CPT and may see these programs as open to abuse. If the CPT isn't directly related to your program, it could affect future visa or green card applications.
  • Whether the school is legitimate: Some schools use Day 1 CPT as their main way to attract students. When choosing a school, make sure it is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the immigration authorities.
  • Effect on OPT: Using CPT for too long can affect a student's eligibility to apply for OPT after graduation.

How to apply for Day 1 CPT

  1. Choose a school that offers Day 1 CPT: Some schools that offer Day 1 CPT include:
    • University of the Cumberlands
    • Harrisburg University
    • Westcliff University
    • Monroe College
  2. Apply to the school and enroll in classes: Applicants usually need to submit a passport, Form I-20, past academic transcripts and so on.
  3. Get CPT authorization: The school's international student office (DSO) needs to approve the CPT in SEVIS and issue a new I-20.
  4. Start working: Once the I-20 is approved, the student can legally start working.

Is Day 1 CPT legal?

Day 1 CPT itself is legal, provided that you:

  • Follow the school's CPT policy, and the work is related to your studies.
  • Stay enrolled at the school and follow F-1 visa rules.
  • Report your academic progress to the school regularly, and don't lean so heavily on CPT work that you neglect your classes.

Final thoughts

Day 1 CPT is an option for international students who want to work while studying in the U.S., but you have to choose your school carefully and make sure you follow visa rules. If your employees are considering Day 1 CPT, advise them to consult an experienced immigration attorney to make sure it won't affect their future visa or immigration plans.

I'm C.  I'm from Taiwan and now run a business in Los Angeles. When I first arrived, the challenges were everywhere! From the language barrier to culture shock, every small detail took me a long time to figure out. Those experiences taught me how to adapt quickly here, until I was in my element. I've put years of that experience on this site to help newcomers like me settle into life in the U.S. more easily and quickly. Whether it's moving here, finding a job or handling everyday tasks, you'll find plenty of practical shortcuts and solutions so you can skip the detours. I hope what I share helps you start your new life in America smoothly, with less effort and a lot more fun!

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