Most Affordable Day 1 CPT University – Trine University

USCIS released the FY2025 H1-B lottery data, disappointing many optimistic forecasters with a selection rate of just under 26%. As the deadline for OPT approaches, many recent international graduates who didn’t get selected this year need to plan an alternative to maintain their legal work status in the US as soon as possible.

Among the various options, the fastest and most common solution is applying for a Day 1 CPT university to continue working under an F1 student visa. However, obtaining a new degree is a significant expense for many recent graduates and early-career professionals. To match working individuals’ budgets, this article introduces the most affordable option among reputable Day 1 CPT universities nationwide—Trine University.

Trine University

Trine University, founded in 1884, is a prominent private institution in the US with a 140-year history. The school served its regional population, first as a teachers and engineering school with flexible evening and weekend courses and then broadening into a multidisciplinary institution with an expansion of daytime classes, an athletics program, and more robust student life offerings. Trine University promotes intellectual and personal development through professionally focused and formative learning opportunities, preparing students to succeed, lead and serve.

Fully Accredited, Long-Established, and Well-Reputed 

The accreditation and legitimacy of a CPT school are crucial considerations and foundational for comparing program cost-effectiveness.  Trine University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. By Indiana law, Trine is an “approved postsecondary educational institution” under Indiana code 1C 21-7-13-6. (Indiana Commission for Higher Education, www.che.in.gov). Trine University boasts three campuses across the US with over 140 reputable history, and it offers various master’s and doctoral programs in fields such as business administration, information studies, business analytics, and engineering management—all supporting Day 1 CPT!

Costs as low as $7,000 per year, with Interest-Free Installment Payment

Trine University Master’s Program Fee
The tuition fee for the Master’s program is $17,250, covering 10 courses totaling 30 credits, at a rate of $575 per credit. Additionally, students are required to select 0.5 CPT (Curricular Practical Training) credits per semester.
Length	Total Fee	Fee per Semester	The installment payment amount per semester (calculated over 3 installments, with a $35 fee)
1 Year	30 credits×575+0.5 creditsx3 terms×575=$18,112.5	$18,112.5/ 3 terms= $6037.5	$6037.5/ 3+$35=$2047.5
2 Years	30 credits×575+0.5 creditsx6 terms×575=$18,975	$18,975/ 6 terms= $3162.5	$3162.5/ 3+$35=$1089
2.5 Years	30 credits×575+0.5 creditsx9 terms×575=$19,262.5	$19,262.5/ 9 terms=$2140.3	$2140.3/ 3+$35=$748

Trine University is the most affordable option among many universities supporting Day 1 CPT, with total costs for a master’s program under $19,000. Trine University’s Day 1 CPT programs offer flexible durations ranging from 1 to 2.5 years and support interest-free installment payments for tuition, allowing students to manage their financial situations effectively. For instance, completing the program in 2.5 years with payments split into 3 installments reduces economic pressure significantly (save that wallet!). You can refer to the form above, or contact CISI for detailed information.

Exclusive Scholarship from CISI

Many CPT programs often advertise substantial scholarships, but these are typically paired with high tuition fees and are scarce, relying heavily on exceptional academic performance throughout the program. In contrast, Trine University addresses the financial challenges faced by most students by capping tuition costs. Additionally, CISI offers the “CISI Stay Good Status Scholarship,” ensuring a $500 cash award to new students at Trine University. To qualify, students need to consult with CISI regarding CPT opportunities and maintain a GPA above 3.0 during their first semester. Applications must be submitted within 30 days after the semester ends; note that a GPA below 3.0 may lead to academic probation or dismissal.

For more information about Trine University and other high-value CPT program options, please get in touch with CISI for a free consultation.