Many students come to the United States to study. They want to learn and have good jobs one day. Some schools let these students start working on the first day of class. This is called Day 1 CPT. It helps students learn and work at the same time. Day 1 CPT means the school allows work as part of learning. It is part of a student’s school program. It allows them to work off-campus in a real job while going to school. This helps students get work experience in their field of study.
What Is CPT Day 1?
Day 1 CPT is a school-approved work program. It lets students who hold an F-1 visa start working from their first day of classes. But this work must be connected to their course or program. The work is not just a job—it is part of learning. Only some schools offer Day 1 CPT. These schools have special programs that include work as part of the learning process. The job a student gets must match what they are studying. For example, if a student is studying computer science, the job should be in tech or computers.
Who Can Use CPT Day 1?
Day 1 CPT is only for students with an F-1 visa. They must be in a program that includes work training. This can be a master’s program or a certificate course. Students must also be full-time and take classes regularly. The school must approve the job before the student starts working. Some schools ask for a job offer first. Others help students find a job after classes begin. The work can be part-time or full-time. If it is part-time, students work 20 hours or less each week. If it is full-time, they work more than 20 hours each week.
How Does Day 1 CPT Help?
Day 1 CPT helps students in many ways. First, it gives them job experience. This makes it easier to find work after school. Second, it helps students earn money. Many students use the money to pay for school and living costs. Third, it helps students learn faster. Working in the real world helps students understand their school subjects better. Day 1 CPT also helps students meet new people. At work, they meet managers, coworkers, and others in the same field. These people can help them later in life.
What Are the Rules?
Students must follow the rules when using Day 1 CPT. The job must be part of the course. The school must give approval before the job starts. The job must match the student’s field of study. The school’s office will give a new I-20 paper with CPT listed on it. This proves that the student is allowed to work. If a student works full-time for a long time, they may not be allowed to do OPT (Optional Practical Training) later. OPT is another work option that comes after school. So, students must think carefully before doing Day 1 CPT full-time for many months. Students must also go to class. Even if they are working, they cannot miss school. Some programs let students go to class once a month. Others may ask for weekly visits. Each school is different. The school will give the full schedule.
Which Schools Offer Day 1 CPT?
Not all schools offer Day 1 CPT. Some schools include Monroe University, Westcliff University, and Trine University. These schools have programs that let students work from the very first day. Some schools are in New York, California, or other states. Students must check which schools are allowed in their home state. Each school has its own tuition fees. Some also offer scholarships. Students should ask about costs before applying. It is also good to ask about job help, housing, and class schedules.
Is Day 1 CPT Safe?
Yes, Day 1 CPT is safe if used the right way. It is legal and allowed by U.S. immigration rules. But students must follow the rules. They should not work without school permission. They must attend class and maintain good grades. They must also keep their visa in good standing. Students should only go to real, accredited schools. Some schools may not follow the rules, which can cause problems. It is smart to check if a school is approved by the government.
Conclusion
Day 1 CPT is a good option for students who want to work and study at the same time. It helps with learning, money, and future jobs. But students must follow the rules and choose the right school. With the right plan, Day 1 CPT can make student life better and help open more doors in the future.
