I’ve heard mixed opinions about Day 1 CPT and job opportunities. Can someone share real experiences or examples of companies that have hired Day 1 CPT students for internships or full-time roles? Are there any industries or employers that are more open to it? Would love to know what’s working in today’s job market!
yeah it really depends on the company and sometimes even the team. i’ve seen folks on day 1 cpt land roles at places like amazon, infosys, tcs, and some mid-size startups — especially in tech, data, or QA roles. it’s less about the school name and more about how well you interview and whether the hiring team understands the cpt setup.
but yeah, some hr teams get cautious when they hear “day 1 cpt” because not every school has a solid reputation. that’s why it helps to go with schools that have proper hybrid setups and SEVP approval — it shows you’re not just looking for a visa loophole.
also, smaller companies or contract roles tend to be more flexible, especially if they’ve hired international students before. it’s not impossible — just takes more explaining and hustle. if you’re good and the role is urgent, a lot of teams won’t care as much about the school.
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Totally agree! 
It’s all about how well you present yourself and whether the team “gets” CPT. Reputation of the school matters, but hustle and skills usually win — especially when the role needs to be filled fast.
Smaller companies and startups might be more open, they’re usually a bit more flexible.
Many U.S. companies do accept students from Day 1 CPT (Curricular Practical Training) universities, especially in high-demand fields like IT, healthcare, and engineering. Day 1 CPT allows international students on F-1 visas to begin working from the start of their academic program if the work is an integral part of the curriculum. For most employers, the primary concern is whether the candidate is legally authorized to work and brings the right skills to the role—not the specific visa status. However, some companies may be cautious due to past misunderstandings about Day 1 CPT or the reputation of certain schools that focus more on work authorization than education. In such cases, students must be prepared to clearly explain their legal status and how their job relates to their academic program.
The reputation of the university plays a big role in how students are perceived. Well-established schools with legitimate Day 1 CPT programs tend to be more trusted, while lesser-known institutions with a history of visa-related concerns may raise red flags for employers. Still, many students from Day 1 CPT programs have successfully built careers in the U.S. by focusing on strong academics, gaining practical experience, and communicating openly with potential employers. Success depends not just on the university, but on how well a student presents themselves—through their resume, interviews, and knowledge of their work authorization. With the right preparation and clarity, students from Day 1 CPT programs can absolutely be accepted and valued in the U.S. job market.