In recent years, many F-1 students using OPT in the U.S. have found it increasingly difficult to secure an H-1B visa. Facing this challenge, many are turning to Day 1 CPT, a type of work authorization that enables students to work in their field of study from the first day of enrollment. By using Day 1 CPT, international students can continue working and studying in the U.S. without the need for H-1B sponsorship. While some companies accept employees on Day 1 CPT, others may not. Moreover, many companies lack a clear policy on the matter.
So, what companies accept Day 1 CPT? Can you work for a small company with Day 1 CPT? How do you convince your current or future employer to support it if they don’t have a clear policy? And how should you explain Day 1 CPT during job interviews? This article will answer these questions.
What Companies Accept Day 1 CPT?
How to Convince Your Employer to Accept Day 1 CPT?
Many well-known companies are familiar with Day 1 CPT and have experience hiring employees using this work authorization. Some top companies that accept Day 1 CPT include:
These companies have established processes for hiring Day 1 CPT students, making the application process smoother for both the employer and the student. If you're currently employed at one of these companies on OPT, you can schedule a 1-on1 meeting with HR to discuss transitioning to Day 1 CPT. If you're applying to these companies, mention your Day 1 CPT status during the hiring process.
However, some large companies do not accept Day 1 CPT, including:
If you're using Day 1 CPT, it's best to avoid these companies during your job search. If you currently work for one of them under OPT, consider exploring other options, such as switching to a different work visa such as O-1 (Individuals with Extraordinary Ability) or L-1 (Intracompany Transferee).
Working in the U.S. without H-1B: 8 Alternative Options to H-1B Visa
If you are targeting or working for companies that are familiar with Day 1 CPT, your discussions with them should be straightforward. But what if you work for a small company that lacks a clear policy on Day 1 CPT?
It is important to note one thing: whether a company is willing to accept Day 1 CPT does not depend on its size. While some large companies reject it, many small-to-medium-sized businesses are more flexible. Whether they accept Day 1 CPT often depends on the manager, the boss, or your performance.
In fact, many smaller companies may not have prior experience with Day 1 CPT but could be open to it once they understand its benefits. By clearly explaining how Day 1 CPT can help the company tap into international talent, you may be able to persuade them to support it.
In the next section, we’ll explore how to convince your employer to accept Day 1 CPT.
If your current or potential employer doesn’t have a clear policy on Day 1 CPT, don’t be discouraged. You can still make a compelling case with the right approach. Here’s how you navigate the conversation:
When discussing Day 1 CPT in interviews or meetings with HR, start by stressing that it fully complies with U.S. immigration regulations. You can highlight that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) permits schools to issue Day 1 CPT to students enrolled in specific graduate programs. If you’re enrolled in an accredited Day 1 CPT school, mention the school’s accreditation to further reassure HR and address any concerns.
Rather than talking about how Day 1 CPT can benefit yourself, you should emphasize how it can benefit your employer. From the perspective of a company, it is more possible for them to hire an employee without spending extra time and money. Thus, you can should highlight the key advantages of hiring international students through Day 1 CPT:
By emphasizing these points, you position Day 1 CPT as a practical, low-hassle solution for employers while adding immediate value to their workforce.
As a Day 1 CPT student, you're constantly acquiring new knowledge and skills in your field of study, which you can immediately apply to real-world situations. This up-to-date expertise provides valuable insights that can benefit the company. Additionally, using CPT demonstrates your commitment to both academic and professional growth, making you a more motivated and engaged employee. This dual focus not only strengthens your contributions in the short term but also positions you as a long-term asset to the company.
While persuading an employer to accept Day 1 CPT might seem challenging at first, with the right approach, you can present a compelling case that benefits both you and the company. By clearly explaining the process, emphasizing the advantages for the employer, and addressing any concerns with practical solutions, you can unlock valuable work opportunities while continuing your studies.
If you are looking for a reliable Day 1 CPT school, don’t hesitate to book a free consultation with us!