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Day 1 CPT Universities: Is Fully Online Study Possible?
No. As an F-1 student, you cannot complete a Day 1 CPT program fully online. Federal regulations (8 CFR 214.2(f)(6)(i)(G)) allow F-1 students to count no more than one class or three credits per term toward their required full course of study if that class is online or distance education that does not require physical attendance. The rest of your full-time course load must involve in-person attendance. That is why every Day 1 CPT university listed below requires students to come to campus on a set schedule. Meeting a school’s on-site schedule does not by itself guarantee CPT approval or that you are maintaining status, so confirm your individual situation with your Designated School Official (DSO).
For international students in the U.S., Day 1 CPT universities offer the opportunity to work while studying. However, the legitimacy of these universities and their on-site class requirements often come under scrutiny.
When applying for the H1B visa, immigration officers assess any potential visa rule violations during the applicant's stay in the U.S. For instance, if a student resides on the West Coast but attends a university on the East Coast with minimal on-site requirements, it can raise red flags. Such discrepancies can lead to a Request for Evidence (RFE) notice, questioning the student's genuine intent behind the F1 visa application.
To avoid complications, it's vital to select a Day 1 CPT university that mandates regular on-site classes, similar to traditional universities. Students should ensure consistent attendance and maintain evidence of their presence in classes. In case of missed sessions due to valid reasons, it's crucial to inform the Designated School Official (DSO) promptly. Negligence can lead to expulsion, resulting in the loss of F1 status.
We recognize that balancing work and academics can be challenging, and the on-site attendance requirement plays a pivotal role in determining which Day 1 CPT university students opt for. We've compiled a list detailing the on-site requirements of the top 15 Day 1 CPT universities. This will enable you to select a university that aligns with your preferences, be it more or fewer in-person sessions.
Top 15 Day 1 CPT Universities and Their On-Site Requirements
| CPT School | On-Site Requirement | On-Site / Year |
|---|---|---|
| Alliant University | 1 / Month | 12 / year |
| Avila University Arizona | 1 / Two Months | 6 / year |
| Bay Atlantic University | 1 / Term | 3 / year |
| Benedictine University | 1 / Term | 3 / year |
| Concordia University Texas | 1 / Term | 3 / year |
| Curry College | 1 / Two Months | 6 / year |
| Goldey-Beacom College | 1 / Two Months | 6 / year |
| Harrisburg University of Science and Technology | 1 / Term | 3 / year |
| Humphreys University | 1 / Term | 4 / year |
| Indiana Wesleyan University | 1 / Term | 3 / year |
| Lamar University | 1 / Two Months | 6 / year |
| McDaniel College | 1 / Term | 3 / year |
| Monroe University | 1 / Month | 12 / year |
| National Louis University | 1 / Term | 4 / year |
| New England College | 1 / Term | 3 / year |
| North Carolina Wesleyan University | 1 / Term | 3 / year |
| Ottawa University | 1 / Term | 3 / year |
| Sofia University | 1 / Month | 12 / year |
| Tennessee Wesleyan University | 1 / Term | 3 / year |
| Texas Wesleyan University | 1 / Term | 3 / year |
| Westcliff University | 1 / Term | 3 / year |
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Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the most affordable schools?
West Coast
- Humphreys University: MBA tuition for international students is $3,500 per quarter (2026–27 schedule, effective July 1, 2026; last verified Nov 4, 2026).
Tuition changes every academic year, so check each school’s official tuition page before you apply.
More options for Cheap Day 1 CPT Universities
Working load and minimum credits in Day 1 CPT programs
Day 1 CPT programs let you work and study at the same time, but you must still maintain a full course of study every term. Each school sets the minimum credit load for its graduate programs, and it is defined per semester or per quarter depending on the school’s calendar. For example, Humphreys University requires graduate international students to take at least 8 quarter units each quarter. Weekly study time depends on the program and the courses you take, so check the program’s catalog and ask the school for a realistic estimate before you enroll. Remember that only one class or three credits of online coursework per term can count toward your full-time minimum.
Can I finish the Day 1 CPT Program within 1 year?
Keep in mind that, as an F-1 student, only one class or three credits of online coursework per term can count toward your full course of study. If you add online courses to finish faster, make sure your in-person enrollment still meets your school’s full-time minimum once that one online class is set aside. Falling short can put your F-1 status at risk, so confirm your course plan with your DSO before you register.
Is it important to have a STEM day 1 CPT degree?
Yes and No.
STEM is highly valued in the U.S., and it's a strong addition to your resume and provides you with 3 years of OPT after graduating from a STEM program. However, if this is your second master's and you've already used OPT from your first one, you can't use OPT from another master's program. The right enrollment window or location or tuition…might carry more weight in your decision-making at this point. Choosing the right program and Day 1 CPT university is a complex process, book a free consultation with our expert to make it easier.
Which Day 1 CPT universities you don't recommend?
- Day 1 CPT universities with no accreditation
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Day 1 CPT universities often lack strong post-enrollment support. Admission isn't the problem, but securing timely CPT approval can be. We only work with and recommend schools that prioritize students, not just revenue.
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Depending on your personal situation, our experts may eliminate certain schools as preferred choices for you. Connect our consultants for personalized advice.
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