Comparing 4 Day 1 CPT Universities in California

In recent years, obtaining an H-1B visa has become increasingly challenging for international students. As a result, many students are turning to Day 1 CPT programs. These programs allow students to work in their field of study from the first day of their academic program, providing valuable work experience and a pathway to stay in the U.S. California, due to its large population of international students, has a high demand for Day 1 CPT programs.

This article compares four famous Day 1 CPT universities in California, helping you make an informed decision in choosing a Day 1 CPT school.

How to Choose Your Day 1 CPT University in California in 3 Minutes

Table of Contents

Comparative Chart of Day 1 CPT Universities in California

1. Westcliff University

2. Sofia University

3. CIAM

4. Humphreys University

Final Thoughts

Comparative Chart of Day 1 CPT Universities in California

1. Westcliff University

Accredited by the WSCUC, Westcliff University is one of the most well-known CPT schools on the West Coast. With two campuses around Los Angeles, Westcliff University is an excellent choice for those living in Southern California. It offers a variety of Day 1 CPT programs, including MBA, MS CS, MS IT, and DBA. These integrate work experience with academic learning, providing a pathway for international students to advance their careers in the U.S.

The most attractive aspect of Westcliff is its reliability. It features strong advisor support and a low RFE rate. Even if you receive an RFE during the H-1B application process, you can request the school for an “RFE package,” which includes all the necessary documents to respond to an RFE. 

Westcliff also provides scholarships specific to international students and ethnic minorities. For more information, see:  Day 1 CPT Cost & Scholarships.

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2. Sofia University                       

Sofia University, also accredited by the WSCUC, is a popular school in California for students seeking Day 1 CPT. While it requires students to attend on-site sessions once per semester, its campuses are conveniently located near SF and LA, making it easily accessible to international students in California. 

Sofia University offers three programs: MBA, MS CS, and DBA. Its MS CS program includes an optional track in data analytics, which is suitable for students aiming to enhance their data skills. 

Sofia University provides diverse scholarship opportunities, including a $2,500 scholarship exclusively for international students. For more information, see:  Day 1 CPT Cost & Scholarships.

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3. California Institute of Advanced Management (CIAM)

CIAM, accredited by the WSCUC, is a small yet professional school focusing on business management. Its MBA provides students with knowledge in management, preparing for higher job positions in corporate management. CIAM’s campus is located in Alhambra, a 30-minute drive from downtown LA. Thus, it has been an attractive option for students near Los Angeles. 

CIAM’s tuition fee covers many additional fees such as textbook fees, technology fees, and enrollment fees. Its affordability is also an important factor contributing to its popularity. If you maintain a high GPA (3.8 or above), you can qualify for the Academic Excellence Scholarship. For more information, see:  Day 1 CPT Cost & Scholarships.

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4. Humphreys University                           

Humphreys University, located near the Bay Area, is particularly suitable for students living in Northern California. Accredited by the WSCUC, Humphreys provides an MBA-IT program that targets tech professionals who aim to advance to management roles. If your previous degree is tech-related, then attending an MBA-IT program can make your trajectory appear more logical. 

Among the four CPT schools in California, Humphreys has the lowest tuition fee. If the financial cost is your priority, then Humphreys can be the first choice. Also, its on-site requirement is twice per semester, which is pretty manageable for those who need to balance work and study.

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Final Thoughts

Above are four well-known Day 1 CPT universities in California. When selecting Day 1 CPT schools and programs, it is crucial to comprehensively assess multiple aspects of a school as well as your own personal circumstances. You need to make sure that your choice aligns with the basic principles of choosing a Day 1 CPT program. 

If you feel confused about how to make a decision, don’t hesitate to book a free consultation with us. We will evaluate your individual situation carefully to recommend the schools that are most suitable for you.

Relevant Readings:

How to Choose a Day 1 CPT School by Location

How to Choose a Day 1 CPT School by Tuition

What is Day 1 CPT?