National Louis University
Chicago-based university with 135+ years of excellence, CPT access, and career-focused graduate programs.
About National Louis University
National Louis University (NLU) is a 135-year-old institution in Chicago, Illinois with over 70,000 alumni and a mission centered on access and equity. NLU's graduate programs span business, psychology, education, and nursing. With a strong focus on practical outcomes and career readiness, the university has become a reliable option for international students who want to pursue graduate education in a major American city while gaining CPT work experience.
Programs Offered at NLU
Master of Business Administration
MA in Psychology
Master of Education
CPT at National Louis University
CPT Availability
National Louis University authorizes Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for eligible F1 students from the very first day of enrollment. This allows students to begin gaining U.S. work experience immediately while completing their degree requirements.
Hybrid Academic Format
The program is designed to be compatible with full-time employment. Onsite attendance is required bi-weekly (chicago campus), with the remainder of coursework completed online or asynchronously — allowing students to maintain CPT authorization without interrupting their work schedule.
Academic Integration
CPT at NLU is fully integrated into the curriculum. Students complete coursework that directly relates to their internship or employment position, and CPT is renewed each semester as long as the student maintains satisfactory academic progress and continues enrollment.
Student Responsibilities
F1 students on CPT at NLU must maintain full-time enrollment, keep their I-20 updated, and ensure their CPT authorization is renewed before each semester. CPTGuru advisors are available to guide you through every step of this process.
Investment Overview
How to Apply to NLU
Required Documents
- Application form
- Official transcripts
- Passport and visa documents
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
Application Process
- Consult with CPTGuruBook a free consultation to confirm eligibility and choose the right program.
- Gather DocumentsPrepare transcripts, passport, visa documents, and your statement of purpose.
- Submit ApplicationApply online for one of the intake dates: January, September.
- Receive I-20 with CPTUpon enrollment, your I-20 will be issued with CPT authorization for the current semester.
Common Questions about NLU
Yes. NLU offers Day 1 CPT for eligible F1 students in its graduate programs.
Need help deciding if this university fits your goals?
Our CPTGuru advisors have helped hundreds of international students choose the right university and navigate the CPT process successfully.