As many Boston-area international students face the expiration of their OPT and unsuccessful H1B visa draws, they often consider relocating to New York or other universities for Day 1 CPT programs. However, right near Boston, there is a cost-effective and historically rich liberal arts college that supports Day 1 CPT—New England College (NEC) in New Hampshire.
Overview of New England College (NEC)
New England College (NEC), nestled in the serene town of Henniker, New Hampshire, is a well-established liberal arts college that puts students first. At NEC, professors see themselves as mentors, aiding students in excelling both in their academic projects and future careers. NEC offers a range of excellent programs in data analytics, cybersecurity, business, and healthcare. The student-faculty ratio stands at 13:1, fostering an intimate and supportive learning environment.
Location and Accessibility
Located near the Boston Metropolitan Area in Henniker, NH, the campus is just a 90-minute drive from downtown Boston, making it easily accessible for students.
Graduate Programs at NEC
NEC offers several graduate programs including:
- Executive M.S. in Data Analytics
- Executive M.B.A. in Business Administration
- Executive M.S. in Information Technology and Cybersecurity
- Executive M.S. in Information Technology and Project Management
- M.S. in Computer Information Systems
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in Health Informatics
- M.S. in Human Services
- M.B.A. in Business Administration
Among these, the Data Analytics, MBA, and IT and Cybersecurity Executive programs support Day 1 CPT.
Day 1 CPT Programs at NEC
Executive M.S. in Data Analytics
Executive M.B.A. in Business Administration
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate ability to integrate knowledge of accounting, finance, marketing, management information systems, organizational behavior, economics, operations management, and qualitative analysis to create effective solutions to organizational and operational challenges independently and as a team;
- Create and demonstrate verbal and written communication skills that express ideas clearly, logically, and persuasively;
- Distinguish and formulate solutions to ethical, cultural humility, and inclusion issues;
- Evaluate information and data to formulate analytically sound decisions and understand the likely consequences of those decisions;
- Assess the leadership challenges of an international workforce and how to incorporate cultural differences, training, and development in organizations;
- Evaluate ethical and legal issues relevant to the policies, procedures, practices, and management of human resources in a competitive environment;
- Apply advanced analysis and problem-solving skills related to the coordination, strategy, planning, and implementation of projects in an organization.
Executive M.S. in Information Technology and Cybersecurity
Executive M.S. in Information Technology and Project Management
NEC Day 1 CPT Policy
NEC provides a Low Residency option for students in Executive Programs, requiring them to engage in internships or employment from the first semester, applying classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios. To utilize Full-time CPT, students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or above.
Day 1 CPT Application Steps
- Students select internship-related courses.
- Students submit CPT application materials to the school DSO (Designated School Official) including an Offer Letter and Employer’s Employment Authorization Form.
- Upon CPT approval, students receive a new I-20 and can start work based on the CPT start date on the I-20.
Class Format for Day 1 CPT
NEC’s Executive Programs typically run for three semesters (15 weeks each) a year, generally completed in 5-6 semesters. During the pandemic, courses were held online, but from the Summer term of 2022, in-person classes resumed. Each semester requires attendance at a three-day in-person session (usually Friday to Sunday). Failure to attend may result in the loss of F1 status.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at NEC
NEC offers a significant cost advantage over other CPT schools in the East, with the total expenses for a two-year graduate program not exceeding $20,000. Currently, there are no scholarships available for students in Executive Programs.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying at NEC
Advantages:
- Proximity to Boston and strategic location
- Low tuition fees offering great value
- Minimal on-campus presence required
- Manageable academic workload
- Lower risk of RFE (Request for Evidence)
- The graduate program duration of 24-27 months provides additional opportunities for H1B lottery participation
- Simplified application process with minimal documentation required
Disadvantages:
- Applicants must have a U.S. master’s degree and three years of U.S. work experience to apply
For students who miss the application deadline, as NEC’s official recruitment partner, we offer expedited application processing that can be completed in as little as five days to receive an I-20.
For those looking for a low-tuition CPT school with a robust educational offering near Boston and New York, NEC represents an excellent choice. Interested students should register early via NEC or contact us directly for application assistance.