How to Choose a Day 1 CPT School by On-Site Frequency?

• Adhering to USCIS Regulations

Under the current USCIS regulations, it is illegal for international students to attend a fully online school while staying in the country. Thus, you must avoid Day 1 CPT universities without any on-site requirements. Since attending on-site sessions is essential for student to maintain their F-1 status, it is wise to choose an accredited Day 1 CPT school with manageable on-site requirements.

Fulfilling on-site requirements can also provide students with evidence for addressing an RFE. If you attend on-site classes based on the school policy, the school can offer proofs such as attendance sheets and photos to demonstrate your compliance with on-site requirements.

Can Day 1 CPT Students Take Classes Online? All You Need to Know

• Maintaining Work-Study Balance

Students enrolling in Day 1 CPT schools must spend time and energy on studying; otherwise they may loose their F-1 status. To balance study, work, and life, it is important to compare on-site requirements of different schools. Note that a low on-site frequency does not mean a lax on-site requirement. Day 1 CPT universities need to apply strict regulation to their on-site classes to maintain their accreditation.

Schools with a lower on-site frequency include: Westcliff University; Trine University; CIAM; Humphreys University; and New England College.

For first-hand on-site experiences, see On-Site Experiences.