American National University

American National University (ANU) – Day 1 CPT Overview

American National University (ANU) is a private, for-profit institution established in 1886, with multiple campuses in Virginia, Tennessee, and Kentucky, and offers distance education across the U.S. Known for its practical, career-focused curriculum, ANU allows international F‑1 students to begin Curricular Practical Training (CPT) from the very first day of their academic program—commonly referred to as Day 1 CPT.

What is Day 1 CPT?

CPT allows F‑1 visa holders to work off campus—either in paid or unpaid roles—when the job directly relates to their major and forms part of their curriculum. Unlike traditional programs that require a year of full-time enrollment before CPT eligibility, ANU structures eligible programs—like STEM, IT, business, and healthcare—to include practical training components from the outset. This allows students to start working up to 40 hours per week right away.

Key Benefits

  • Immediate work authorization: Begin gaining valuable U.S. work experience as soon as classes start.
  • Real-world relevance: Practical training aligns with academic goals, helping to reinforce classroom learning.
  • No extra cost: CPT is included in tuition—there are no additional fees required.
  • Flexibility: Work full-time during summer sessions or part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during regular semesters, without affecting eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT).

What to Watch For

  • Compliance matters: Your CPT must be properly documented and authorized by the Designated School Official (DSO). Authorization usually takes 5–15 business days after submitting all required documentation.
  • Regulatory scrutiny: U.S. immigration authorities closely monitor Day 1 CPT programs. It is crucial to ensure that your practical training is truly “integral” to your degree program.
  • OPT trade-off: If you use more than 12 months of full-time CPT, you will no longer be eligible for post-graduation OPT.

Summary

F‑1 students eager to start working from day one can benefit from ANU’s Day 1 CPT model. It offers a smooth blend of academics and professional development. Be sure your chosen program meets all required guidelines. Plan for processing time and manage your CPT carefully to protect your future OPT eligibility.

Ready to Apply


Start your application here: https://an.edu/apply