Share this
Top 5 Day 1 CPT Universities for Changing Your Status to F1
by Tim on Jun 7, 2024 10:12:39 AM
Day 1 CPT universities permit international students to work under CPT (Curricular Practical Training) from the first day of their program. For H1B holders who are laid off, changing status to F1 is a viable option to maintain legal status in the United States, with Day 1 CPT offering flexible opportunities for working. This option is also suitable for visa holders of H4, F2, B1/B2, L1/L2, and J1/J2 who aim to work while studying in the U.S.
However, not all Day 1 CPT universities accept “change of status students.” This article highlights the top 5 Day 1 CPT universities that accept change of status applicants and can provide them with Day 1 CPT.
1. Westcliff University
Westcliff University is a reputable Day 1 CPT university on the west coast. Known for its low RFE (Request for Evidence) rate, this university is a safe choice for Day 1 CPT students. It has a very friendly policy for change of status students, allowing all visa types—including H1B, H4, F2, B1/B2, and L1/L2—to change to F1.
Westcliff offers 6 enrollment windows per year, providing great flexibility for applicants. You should file your change of status application at least 3 months before your desired program start date.
If you receive an RFE from USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services), contact the school as soon as possible. Westcliff will provide you with an “RFE package,” which includes many types of supporting documents to help you respond to the RFE.
2. Harrisburg University
Harrisburg University (HU) is one of the most well-known CPT universities on the east coast. While its tuition fee is relatively high compared to other schools, it attracts many Day 1 CPT students with its academic quality, administrative efficiency, and a wide selection of STEM programs. Also, it is a non-profit school, which means you will be eligible for H1B master’s cap after getting a graduate degree from it. Therefore, HU is an excellent option for “change of status students.”
According to HU’s policy, you can enroll in classes at HU while your change of status application is pending if your current status allows for study (such as H4 and J1).
If you receive an RFE from USCIS, you need to submit a copy to the school so they can assist you to gather materials to make an effective response. After receiving an I-797 Approval Notice from USCIS, you must submit the Notice to HU’s International Students Office within 24 hours.
3. Monroe College
Monroe College is another renowned CPT school on the east coast. Located in New York, it attracts many international students from the NYC metropolitan area and nearby states. This school accepts applicants changing from all types of nonimmigrant statuses.
If you already obtain a master’s degree from the U.S., you will be eligible for a tuition discount, which can greatly reduce your financial burden. Thus, this school is a great option for those with U.S. educational experience. H1B and L1 visa holders are more particularly likely to fulfill this requirement.
4. New England College
New England College (NEC) is a non-profit on the east coast with a history of more than 70 years. This CPT university is characterized by its low tuition and emphasis on industrial experience.
To apply to NEC, you need to have a master’s degree from the U.S. and 3 years of work experience. Therefore, this school might only be suitable for H1B and L1 holders, as they are more likely to have the required educational background and work experience.
5. University of the Potomac
The University of the Potomac, located in the center of Washington D.C., offers a wide range of program choices at an affordable cost. If you are interested in STEM or healthcare-related programs, this university could be a great choice for you.
As a non-profit institution, this school can make you eligible for the H1B master’s cap, enhancing your chances of being selected in the H1B visa lottery.
6. Other Options
Other Day 1 CPT universities such as Saint Peter’s University and McDaniel College also accept change of status applicants, but their decisions are made on a case by case basis.
Sofia University and CIAM (California Institute of Advanced Management) accept change of status students. However, they do not issue Day 1 CPT to initial F1 students. You can apply to both schools only if you have U.S. educational experience.
Conclusion
Above are top Day 1 CPT Universities that accept change of status students. To enhance the success rate of your change of status application, it is crucial to choose an accredited and reliable CPT universities. If you have further questions, book a free consultation with us to get more details about your change of status options.