With the H-1B lottery season now over, many international students are turning to Day 1 CPT as an alternative to maintain their status. Some may start to ask the following questions: Can I take multiple degrees for Day 1 CPT? If I pursue several master’s programs, am I crossing a line—and how many is too many? What if I have already earned three master’s degrees?
This article answers these questions, breaks down the legal risks, and offers practical solutions for students exploring this path.
Table of Contents
Can I Take Multiple Degrees for Day 1 CPT?
Legal Risks of Stacking Degrees for CPT: What You Should Know
What to Do If I have Already Earned Multiple Degrees?
Can I Take Multiple Degrees for Day 1 CPT?
Technically, yes—you can take more than one degree as long as the school and program follow all immigration rules. In fact, it is quite common for international students to pursue a second master’s degree for Day 1 CPT. Many of them have successfully obtained an H-1B visa—and even a green card—without receiving any RFEs.
However, if you take too many degrees, especially similar ones or back-to-back from the same school, it can look suspicious to USCIS or immigration officers. They may think you are not studying for real, but just using school to keep working.
Earning a second master’s degree for Day 1 CPT is generally considered safe. Pursuing a third may still be acceptable if you have a strong academic or professional justification. However, we do not recommend enrolling in more than three master’s programs.
|
Second Master’s |
Third Master’s |
Forth Master’s |
|
Safe |
Risky yet acceptable |
Not recommended |
Legal Risks of Stacking Degrees for CPT: What You Should Know
Taking multiple degrees to keep using CPT might seem smart—but it can be risky. Below are potential risks for taking too many degrees for Day 1 CPT.
- RFE (Request for Evidence)
One major risk of stacking Day 1 CPT degrees is triggering an RFE. USCIS may question whether you enrolled in multiple programs solely to maintain work authorization rather than for genuine academic purposes.
As a result, you will be asked to provide detailed proof that you complied with all F-1 requirements—such as attending classes, making academic progress, and showing that each degree served a legitimate educational or career goal. Without strong documentation, your application could be delayed, denied, or even lead to further immigration consequences.
- Visa Denial
Another big risk is getting a visa denial when you renew your F-1 visa. Visa officers will review your academic history carefully. If your degree history does not make sense (such as taking similar degrees repetitively), or if it appears that you are only studying to stay employed, your visa application could be denied.
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Day 1 CPT and RFE: What Should You be Prepared for?
What to Do If I have Already Earned Multiple Degrees?
If you have already completed two or more master’s degrees for Day 1 CPT, it is important to move forward carefully to avoid raising concerns. Here are three practical solutions that can help reduce risks:
1. Choose a Master’s Degree in a Different Field
If you plan to pursue another master’s degree, make sure it is in a clearly different academic field. For example, if you already have two degrees in business, switching to a program in data science, education, or design may show that you are genuinely expanding your skill sets rather than repeating similar studies. A distinct shift in focus can make your academic path look more credible and meaningful.
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2. Consider Enrolling in a Doctoral Program
Another way to show academic progression is by moving up to a doctoral program. Many students who have already finished two or three master’s degrees for Day 1 CPT would choose to enroll in a doctoral program as their next step. This not only shows a clear upward academic path but also signals that you are pursuing advanced research and deeper specialization in your field, rather than continuing your education solely to maintain work authorization.
Below are famous Day 1 CPT universities offering doctoral programs:
- Westcliff University
- Sofia University
- Ottawa University
- National Louis University
- University of the Potomac
3. Prepare Strong Justifications in Advance
Whether you pursue a new master’s degree or a doctoral program, it is essential to be ready to explain your academic choices. Prepare a written explanation of how each degree supports your long-term goals, and gather documents such as transcripts, course descriptions, and proof of class attendance. If you are ever questioned by immigration officers or asked to provide supporting materials, these justifications can help show that your educational path is both serious and legitimate.
Final Thoughts
Day 1 CPT can be helpful, but if you use it in a wrong way, it could hurt your chances of staying in the U.S. If you are already in your second or third CPT program, now is the time to make smart, well-informed choices. By staying aware of the rules and making careful decisions, you can protect your F-1 student status—and continue building your career in the U.S.
For more detailed information or personalized advice, book a free consultation today to speak with one of our visa experts!
