Cheapest Day 1 CPT Universities

Day 1 CPT provides international students in the U.S. with a distinctive chance to acquire essential work experience as they pursue their studies. When selecting Day 1 CPT universities with a budget in mind, it's crucial to factor in three elements that can significantly influence the overall cost of your program: Tuition, Location, and On-site Frequency.

How much does it cost for Day 1 CPT Universities?

While the overall cost of the program is essential, the program's duration also plays a pivotal role. Take the DBA program, for instance, even though it might appear costly at first glance, it provides an extended period for CPT work, increasing opportunities for H1B selection. This is a primary reason for its soaring popularity, even with its higher tuition fees

  • Master's degrees: $16,000 to $35,000
  • Doctoral level degrees: $42,000 to $58,000

However, the costs can often be complicated, with hidden expenses potentially including accommodation, transportation, textbooks, and more.

>>> See Top 3 Cheapest Day 1 CPT Universities

What are the hidden costs?

To figure out the most affordable Day 1 CPT universities, it's important to assess the total value rather than just the tuition fees. This involves taking into account aspects such as transportation, textbooks, processing fees, and the financial advantages of scholarships, referral bonuses, and income from Day 1 CPT employment.

  • Commute & Accommodations: Day 1 CPT universities often require minimal campus visits, but attending out-of-state schools can lead to significant travel and accommodation costs. Verify program availability to avoid unnecessary expenses and seek advice for accurate information. GoElite has partnered with Hyatt Group, and we offer up to 15% off discounts for our students. if you are a student and would like to get the promo code, please contact our consultants.
  • Textbook: Some universities charge extra for textbooks or materials, while others, like CIAM, offer a "comprehensive fee" that includes all costs.
  • CPT Process Fees: Some schools may charge unexpected fees after enrollment. We encourage students to report these costs so we can inform future students and negotiate with schools, fostering a supportive community.
  • Medical Insurance: Some students have internships that cover medical insurance, but certain schools may still require additional insurance purchases. Most Day 1 CPT universities allow waivers if proof of coverage is provided, following USCIS rules for F1 students.
  • Other Administration Fees: Some Day 1 CPT schools might require students to pay a technology fee for using online services. Additionally, some schools offer a payment plan allowing tuition to be paid monthly, but an extra fee is required to process this application.

Are there any Potential Earnings or Discounts?

Many Day 1 CPT universities offer an extensive range of scholarships and financial aid, specifically tailored for international students. Exploring these avenues can significantly reduce the financial strain, making your educational journey smoother.

  • Financial Aid and Scholarships: Some Day 1 CPT universities might have higher tuition fees, yet they provide a wide array of scholarship opportunities. For example, Westcliff University offers a 60% likelihood of obtaining a scholarship.
  • Program Duration: Extended programs may provide enhanced education and job preparedness, as well as increased opportunities to participate in the H1B lottery, potentially delivering greater value even with higher expenses.
  • Summer Vacations & Semesters Off: Some Day 1 CPT universities offer a summer break or a semester off after 3 consecutive semesters during which students can engage in CPT work without incurring tuition fees (might have CPT fees, depending on schools' policy). While these programs may have higher overall tuition costs, the expenses distributed over the program's length can result in reduced monthly costs, providing a financial benefit compared to programs with ongoing tuition and no summer earning potential.
  • Administrative Support: A common problem is insufficient post-enrollment support at certain Day 1 CPT universities, especially those with lower tuition fees. This lack of administrative help can delay students' CPT application processes. Institutions with higher tuition often allocate resources to provide thorough support, hiring experienced instructors and staff to assist with student questions and CPT applications.

>>> Get Day 1 CPT Universities Scholarships

Tuition Comparison of the Day 1 CPT Universities

Per Credit
Per Program (Estimate)
Doctoral Degree
Westcliff University
$795 - $940
$28,620 - $53,700
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CIAM
$667
$24,000
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New England College
$462
$17,952 - $19,800
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Monroe University
$540 - $944
$25,000 - $35,000
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Sofia University
$520
$18,720 - $$51,300
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Saint Peter's University
$975
$26,010 - $32,000
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McDaniel College
$675
$20,250
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Tennessee Wesleyan University
$600
$21,000
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University of the Potomac
$400-900
$22,259 - $35,520
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Ottawa University
$649
$27,500 - $51,000
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Harrisburg University
$830
$32,880
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National Louis University
$790 - $832
$25,000 - $50,000
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Humphreys University
$435 - $600
$21,000
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Trine University
$575 - $700
$17,250 - $42,000
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University of the Cumberlands
$500 - $700
$17,500 - $47,500
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Dallas Baptist University
$1,271
$47,000 - $53,000
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Sullivan University
$660 - $780
$32,000 - $72,000
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The Importance of Location & On-Site Frequency

After the pandemic, several Day 1 CPT universities have returned to on-site instruction. This means students need to visit campus regularly (once a week or more), which is crucial for shaping their future career path. Opting for universities closer to your workplace can save both time and commuting costs. Moreover, universities in metropolitan areas offer a plethora of internship and career development opportunities, crucial for shaping your future.

>>>Find Day 1 CPT Universities Near You

While tuition is a significant factor, it is necessary to take into account other aspects of a Day 1 CPT university such as scholarship opportunities, commuting costs, and the school's location. Building a comprehensive understanding of Day 1 CPT schools can significantly enhance students' Day 1 CPT experience.

For those looking for expert guidance, we're here to help. Our seasoned professionals, with years of experience, offer free consultations to assist international students in obtaining Day 1 CPT approval or selecting the ideal university. Contact us today, and let's embark on this journey together.

Top 3 Cheapest Day 1 CPT Universities in the U.S.

Cheapest Options by Areas in the US

East

New England College (Henniker, NH)

  • The tuition fee can be varied if the students complete their studies within different time frames.
  • Tuition can be paid in monthly installments.
  • Executive Master's degrees require students to have a previous US Master's degree and more than 3 years of working experience in the US. An offer letter is a mandatory doc before applying for the degree.
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CPT Program Cost Per Credit Credit Hours Total Tuition Fee (Estimated) Annual Tuition Fee
MS in Data Science and Analytics $462 36 $17,952 $8,976
MS in Information Technology & Cybersecurity $462 36 $17,952 $8,976
MS in Information Technology & Project Management $462 40 $19,800 $9,900
MBA $462 40 $19,800 $9,900
 

McDaniel College (Westminster, MD - Near DC Metropolitan)

  • The school will provide free lunch when the students have classes on-site.
  • You can take the summer semester off to extend your degree length to utilize your CPT working hours.
CPT Program Cost Per Credit Credit Hours Total Tuition Fee (Estimated) Annual Tuition Fee
MS in Data Analytics $689 30 $20,250 $12,150
 

University of the Potomac (Washington DC)

  • You can take up to 2 semesters off to extend your degree length to utilize your CPT working hours.
  • You will get the scholarship up to $10,000 automatically if you keep your GPA over 3.0.
  • University of the Potomac has the lowest tuition fee for Doctoral programs.
CPT Program Cost Per Credit Credit Hours Total Tuition Fee (Estimated) Annual Tuition Fee
Master's $900 36 $22,250-$34,200 $11,125-$17,100
Doctoral $517 60 $35,520 $8,880
 

 

West

CIAM (Alhambra, CA - LA Metropolitan)

  • The school will provide free lunch when the students have classes on-site.
  • The course materials are free.
CPT Program Cost Per Credit Credit Hours Total Tuition Fee (Estimated) Annual Tuition Fee
MBA $667 36 $24,000 $12,000
 

Sofia University (Palo Alto, CA - Bay Area; Costa Mesa, CA)

  • You can take a semester off after you finish the first 3 semesters' study to extend your degree length to utilize your CPT working hours.
CPT Program Cost Per Credit Credit Hours Total Tuition Fee (Estimated) Annual Tuition Fee
MS in Computer Science $520 42 $21,840 $10,920
MBA $520 36 $18,720 $9,360
DBA $950 54 $51,300 $17,100
 

Humphreys University (Stockton, CA - Bay Area)

  • Low GPA accepted, all college transcripts GPA should be at least 2.75.
  • No extra fee for CPT.
CPT Program Cost Per Credit Credit Hours Total Tuition Fee (Estimated) Annual Tuition Fee
MBA $430 36 $21,000 $9,400
 

 

South

Tennessee Wesleyan University (Knoxville, TN)

  • The credit fee begins at $600, but in most cases. This range of cost makes TWU one of the most affordable Day 1 CPT universities in the U.S.
  • Students are allowed to activate CPT 1 month before the new semester starts..
Tennessee Wesleyan University
CPT Program Cost Per Credit Credit Hours Total Tuition Fee (Estimated) Annual Tuition Fee
Executive Master's $600 35 $21,000 $12,600
 

University of the Cumberlands (Williamsburg, KY; Florence, KY)

  • The credit fee begins at $315, but in most cases, the cost for each credit hour is from $500 - $800, textbook included. This range of cost makes UC one of the most affordable Day 1 CPT universities in the U.S.
  • If students miss a course, they will be asked to attend makeup classes and pay a $300 fee.
CPT Program Cost Per Credit Credit Hours Total Tuition Fee (Estimated) Annual Tuition Fee
Master's $549 35 $19,215 $11,529
Doctor's - Business/Management $749 66 $49,434 $12,359
Doctor's - Information Technology $749 60 $44,940 $11,235
 

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Day 1 CPT Universities with Scholarships

Monroe College


Westcliff University


  • $1,000-$10,000 (Westcliff Scholarships)

    *With the highest level of accreditation, Westcliff is one of the most popular day 1 CPT universities in California. Westcliff’s DBA program (STEM) can offer you 3.5 years of CPT and 3 years of OPT afterward.

    >>> Additional Reading: How to Get $1,000 Scholarship at Westcliff

Westcliff

Sofia University


  • $1,000-$3,000 (Sofia University Scholarship)

    *Sofia University provides multiple scholarships depending on students’ merits or financial needs. You may talk to our specialist about which one is suitable for you and how to apply for it. Click here, to schedule a free consultation.

    >>> Additional Reading: Sofia University Day 1 CPT

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