Will Day 1 CPT Affect H-1B or Green Card in the Future?

H-1B
1

Many students are using Day 1 CPT to maintain F1 status while working, but I’m hearing mixed things about how it may impact future immigration steps.

:backhand_index_pointing_right: Key concerns:

  • Does using Day 1 CPT raise red flags during H-1B or I-140 (Green Card) processing?
  • Have any students faced RFEs (Requests for Evidence) or visa denials later?
  • What kind of CPT documentation should we keep to stay safe?

If anyone has gone through the H-1B or GC process after using Day 1 CPT, your experience would be super helpful!

2
  1. Honestly, nope, it is not a big problem but make sure you keep all the evidence of studying with you.
  2. Each school’s RFE rate are different, but the schools we cooperated are low.
  3. Transportation Tickets, Homework & Projects, School’s Transcripts & Emails, Clock-in/out onsite.
3

Great questions, Jyothi — these are concerns many students have when using Day 1 CPT, and it’s smart to think ahead.

:triangular_flag: Does Day 1 CPT raise red flags?

Yes, it can. USCIS may scrutinize CPT usage more closely during H-1B or Green Card (I-140/I-485) processing, especially if:

• You used CPT continuously for multiple years

• Your school is not well-known or has a history of non-compliance

• Your job duties didn’t clearly match your academic program

Many students still get approved, but RFEs (Requests for Evidence) are more common. USCIS might question whether your CPT was truly academic or just used to work full-time.

4

Day 1 CPT can raise red flags, especially with long-term use or unclear job-academic alignment. Choosing a reputable school and keeping strong documentation is key. Has anyone here successfully managed this during H-1B or I-140? Would love to hear your experience.

5

You can always get an RFE :sweat_smile: make sure your educational path looks as compliant as possible…are you showing true intention to study something new? how are you maintaining your on-site attendance? these are imp questions to consider