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Chicago is one of the top destinations for international students in the United States, home to prestigious institutions such as the University of Chicago and Northwestern University. Known for its thriving financial and technology sectors, the city attracts graduates and professionals from around the world. However, finding a suitable Day 1 CPT university in Chicago can be challenging, as there are only a few schools located directly in the city. This article introduces the four Day 1 CPT universities closest to Chicago, helping applicants discover the best options nearby.
How to Choose a Day 1 CPT School by Location?
Table of Contents
2. Indiana Wesleyan University
4. Tennessee Wesleyan University
1. National Louis University
On-Site Campus: Chicago, IL; Tampa, FLOn-Site Frequency: 1 per semester
Annual Tuition: $14,976 - $18,960
Intakes: Jan | Apr | Jun | Sep
Day 1 CPT Programs: MS Business Data Analytics; MS Organizational Leadership (Tampa only); DBA (Tampa only)
National Louis University (NLU), a reputable institution accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, offers over 60 undergraduate and graduate programs. Particularly, it provides a Day 1 CPT program available at the Chicago campus: MS in Business Data Analytics. This program is ideal for professionals in finance, data analytics, and business management. It requires a total of 30 credits for graduation.
One major advantage of NLU is its low on-site attendance requirement. Students are only required to attend one on-site session per semester, held from Friday to Sunday, making it particularly convenient for those living in Chicago. While the annual tuition for the MS in Business Data Analytics program is slightly higher ($14,976), its convenient location in Chicago allows students to save money on travel and accommodation for on-site sessions.
Advantages: lower on-site requirement; location; non-profit (H-1B master’s cap)
2. Indiana Wesleyan University
On-Site Campus: Merrillville, INOn-Site Frequency: 1 per semester
Annual Tuition: $8,982
Intakes: Jan | Feb | Mar | May | Jun | Aug | Sep | Oct
Day 1 CPT Programs: MS Management (STEM); MS Data Analytics (STEM); MS Computer Information System - AI (STEM); MS AI - Data Analytics (STEM)
Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) is another excellent choice for Day 1 CPT students due to its convenient location and cutting-edge STEM programs. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, IWU offers programs that align with current technology trends, making it an ideal option for professionals in business and technology, particularly those interested in AI.
As a newly emerging Day 1 CPT school, IWU stands out with several advantages. Its annual tuition is under $10,000, making it more affordable than many alternatives. Additionally, as a non-profit institution, IWU qualifies students for the H-1B master’s cap. The university also has a low on-site attendance requirement, adding to its flexibility. Located near Chicago, the campus is just a less than 1-hour drive away, making it a top choice for students living in the Chicago area.
Advantages: Lower tuition cost; multiple STEM programs; AI programs; non-profit (H-1B master’s cap); convenient location (close to Chicago); multiple enrollment windows
3. Ottawa University
On-Site Campus: Brookfield, WI; Ottawa, KS; Surprise, AZOn-Site Frequency: 2 per semester
Annual Tuition: $16,110-16,575
Intakes: Jan | Mar | May | Jun | Aug | Oct
Day 1 CPT Programs: EMBA; DBA (Kansas only); MS Nursing (Kansas only); MS CS (Kansas only)
Ottawa University, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a popular choice for Day 1 CPT students due to its multiple campuses across the Midwest. With a history spanning over 150 years, this university has earned a strong reputation among international students as a top Day 1 CPT school.
Ottawa University offers an EMBA program in its Brookfield campus, which is only a 2.5-hour drive from Chicago. The program requires on-site attendance of twice per semester (Friday to Sunday), which is manageable for students living in and around the Chicago area.
As a non-profit institution, Ottawa University also qualifies students for the H-1B master’s cap, enhancing their chances of securing an H-1B visa.
Advantages: multiple campuses in the midwestern area; non-profit (H-1B master's cap)
4. Tennessee Wesleyan University
On-Site Campus: Knoxville, TNOn-Site Frequency: 1 per trimester
Annual Tuition: $12,600
Intakes: Jan | Mar | May | Jun | Aug | Oct
Day 1 CPT Programs: EMBA; MS Project Management; MS Business Analytics (STEM)
Tennessee Wesleyan University is a non-profit university accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. It offers three Day 1 CPT programs: EMBA, MS in Project Management, and MS in Business Analytics. With its diverse program offerings, the university caters to Day 1 CPT students from a variety of professional backgrounds.
One of the key advantages of Tennessee Wesleyan University is its low on-site attendance requirement—only once per semester, providing great flexibility for students. Located in Knoxville, the campus is just a 2-hour flight from Chicago, making travel quick and convenient. If you feel the tuition at National Louis University or Ottawa University is too high, Tennessee Wesleyan University serves as a more affordable alternative.
Advantages: lower tuition cost; non-profit (H-1B master’s cap)
Conclusion
Choosing the right Day 1 CPT university can make a significant difference in balancing your studies, career, and budget. Whether you prioritize flexibility, affordability, or program diversity, the options outlined above offer excellent opportunities for Day 1 CPT students. If you are unsure which university fits your needs best, book a free consultation with our professional consultants. We are here to help you make the right choice and navigate your Day 1 CPT journey with confidence!
