AMA: Can I travel back to my home country on Day 1 CPT?

Day 1 CPT Universities
1

A lot of students usually ask our consultants whether they can travel on CPT. The answer is: it depends on schools; some schools allow you to do so, some schools don’t, so it would be better if you reach out to your school’s DSO and confirm it.

In the following, I would like to share the common asked questions with you all!

  1. Risk of Renewing F-1 Visa While on Day 1 CPT

Yes, there is a significant risk when renewing your F-1 visa while you are engaged in Day 1 CPT, especially now that the interview waiver is no longer available after September. During the visa interview, consular officers often scrutinize Day 1 CPT programs more closely, as these programs are sometimes perceived as a way to work full-time rather than primarily study.

Here are a few points the consular officer may question:

  • Why you’re working from Day 1 and how your work relates to your degree.
  • Whether your program truly requires immediate CPT.
  • Whether you’re attending classes in person or online.
  • Why you’re renewing your F-1 visa when you are working full-time.

While some students have been approved successfully, others have faced administrative processing delays or even visa denials. If your visa is denied or delayed, you cannot return to the U.S. to continue your CPT/employment.

  1. Traveling for One Weekend During the Semester

Technically, it depends on the school’s policies. Day 1 CPT schools often discourage this because: Your attendance and academic engagement might be questioned by USCIS or CBP (Customs and Border Protection) upon re-entry. Even a short trip could raise questions if you’re re-entering during class time or while employed. Re-entry with a newly issued F-1 visa during the semester while on Day 1 CPT may increase your risk at the border.

That said, some students have successfully traveled for short periods, especially if: You have a solid explanation and documentation (invitation to the event, proof your CPT is related to your degree, proof of academic enrollment, I-20 signed recently by DSO, etc.) You travel during breaks or minimal academic disruption.

Feel free to add more questions below, I will add them to this article :smiley:

To learn more, you can search on our platform by typing “Traveling on Day 1 CPT“, you will see more shared posts from students!

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