Eligibility 

What are the changes associated with the elimination of Duration of Status?
For the latest information regarding the Duration of Status rule change, please visit the SEVP website: https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/elimination-of-duration-of-status-frequently-asked-questions

Important Update.
 
A federal court in Massachusetts has temporarily stopped the DHS rule that was scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026.
 
For now, the new rule is on hold. This means:
 
  • F-1 students will continue to be admitted for Duration of Status (D/S) while the court order remains in effect.
  • The government is expected to appeal the court’s decision.
  • The situation may change quickly if the court order is reversed.
  • If the court order is reversed and the new rule takes effect, you will be required to follow the new F-1 admission rules.
 
New England College will continue to monitor this situation and will provide updates if there are changes that affect you.
 
Due to the uncertainty of the current situation, your enrollment at NEC could be contingent upon meeting all applicable requirements with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
 

Transferring under the Final Rule apropos of the Injunction.
 

Can I apply for a second U.S. master’s degree?

Yes. Because of the current injunction, there is no restriction on starting a second master’s degree at this time.

A master’s degree you complete before a future implementation of the DHS rule would not count as a previous master’s under the new rule.

If the injunction is reversed and the Final Rule takes effect in the future, only master’s degrees completed on or after the new implementation date would be considered under the new one-master’s-per-level rule.


 

What is the transfer process during the injunction?

Right now, the transfer process includes:

  1. Your current school releases your SEVIS record to NEC.

  2. NEC issues your Transfer Initial I-20.

  3. You complete the EAF process and receive approval.

  4. NEC issues your CPT I-20.

If the injunction is reversed in the future, the process would change. Students would transfer to NEC, receive a Transfer Initial I-20, and then file an Extension of Stay (EOS) application with USCIS. Students would need to wait for the EOS process before starting the program, because CPT cannot be authorized while the EOS application is pending.

 

Do I need to file an Extension of Stay (EOS)?

No. Not while the injunction is in place.

Currently, students do not need to file an EOS application.

If the injunction is reversed and the Final Rule takes effect in the future, students may have two options:

  • File an EOS application while remaining in the U.S.

  • Leave the U.S. and return with a valid F-1 visa and a new Initial I-20 from NEC.

NEC cannot recommend which option is best for you. If you need help deciding, we recommend speaking with a qualified immigration attorney.

 

Can I transfer while I am on STEM OPT?

Yes. If you want to use your full STEM OPT period, you should generally transfer out of your current school after your STEM OPT end date.

Please keep in mind that you will need to meet the deadlines for the next available term at NEC.

If the injunction is reversed and the Final Rule takes effect in the future, students who transfer after OPT may need to wait for their EOS application to be approved before starting their program or receiving CPT authorization.



Can I have CPT if I transfer after September 15, 2026?

Yes. Under the current injunction, there is no waiting period for CPT for students transferring to NEC at this time.

If the injunction is reversed and the Final Rule takes effect in the future, students who transfer to NEC may need to wait for their EOS application to be approved before starting their program.

Because CPT cannot be authorized while an EOS application is pending, students would not be able to begin CPT during that waiting period. This is especially important for Executive students, who cannot begin the program without an internship/CPT.

Please note: Immigration rules and court decisions can change. We will continue to share updates as new information becomes available.





What are Executive programs? 
The New England College Executive program offers immersive learning for current professionals and high-potential leaders who strive to become successful in their field.  
 
► Executive programs require that you have already completed a U.S. master's degree or have at least 3 years of relevant US work experience.
► Students must have an internship/ job by the program start in order to fulfill the immediate internship requirement for this program**. 
► Apply here!
 
**Eligible F-1 students will complete their required internship or job through CPT (Curricular Practical Training) authorization. The Internship course is an integral part of the Executive program curriculum. Internships or jobs must directly relate to the program learning outcomes.


How long is the application Process? 
  • Once your application is completed with all required documents including official transcripts, your admission counselor will review the application and send you an admission decision within 2-4 business days. 
Is a job or internship required? 
 
Yes. The internship course is an integral part of the Executive program curriculum. Internships or jobs must directly relate to the program learning outcomes.  
 
Please let your admission counselor know if you do not have a position by the week before the program starts. Students are not eligible to start the program without a job or internship.
 
What are the requirements for the Executive programs?

Students must have already completed a Bachelor's Degree and have US work experience.  The degree can be in the US or abroad. 

Am I eligible for the Executive program if I have a US bachelor degree?
 
Yes, as long as you have relevant, professional US work experience.


If I have an MBA, can I still apply for the Executive MBA program?
 
We do not recommend repeating the same major. Please choose another major that also aligns with your position and career goals but has new course material.

 
What major is recommended for students with a law degree?
 
The MBA is the most suited to cover topics relevant to running a law firm. The MBA will prepare lawyers for the business and managerial side of the law industry. Topics covered include Human Resources, Marketing, and Leadership and Entrepreneurial skills.
Program Structure

What is the program structure for Executive programs? 

Executive programs are considered hybrid. The majority of your coursework will be done online at your own pace with assignments due weekly. Once a term, students are required to be on campus in Henniker, New Hampshire for a full weekend to complete the in-person residency. 
What does the course structure look like? 

Each term you will take 2 classes each worth 3 credits, and 1 internship course worth 1 credit for the  required internship/job.
► Each term you will earn 7 to 8 credits.  This is considered full time for F-1 Student Visa compliance. 
► Each term is 15 weeks (about 3 and a half months) long.
► Students typically spend 20-25 hours per week on coursework. 

► Click on the program for map of courses in each:

Residencies


What are residencies and when do I need to attend classes on campus? 

 
One weekend per term, you will come to campus in Henniker, New Hampshire for the in- person residencies held over a Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Each term is 15 weeks long, so students should plan to travel to campus every 15 weeks. In-person residencies consist of classes, projects, and student presentations. This is an excellent opportunity to network with classmates and colleagues from all over the world and within the US.  
 
Is housing provided at the college during the residency weekend?
 
No, students are responsible for coordinating their own housing for the weekend. However, we have a few local hotels near to the campus we recommend. Please view our Executive Residency page for more information. 
 
Is transportation provided by the college during the residency weekend?
 
Students are responsible for arranging transportation for residency weekends. Many students choose to ride-share or carpool. Please view our Executive Residency Page for information on nearby airports. 

Please note it is difficult to use ride-share apps such as Lyft and Uber in Henniker, NH and we recommend making other travel arrangements. 
 
How long is the Executive master's program?
  • Executive MS IT Project Management: ​24 months (6 terms, 40 credits)
  • Executive MS IT & Cybersecurity: 20 months (5 terms, 36 credits)
  • Executive MS Data Science and Analytics: 20 months (5 terms, 36 credits)
  • Executive MS Health Informatics: 20 months (5 terms, 36 credits)
  • Executive MS Artificial Intelligence: 20 months (5 terms, 36 credits)
  • Executive MBA: 24 months (6 terms, 40 credits)
  • Executive MBA Healthcare Administration: 24 months (6 terms, 40 credits)
  • Executive MBA Software Engineering: 24 months (6 terms, 40 credits) 
 

Each term is 15 weeks long. Executive programs operate year-round with 3 terms each year: Spring, Summer, and Fall. The only scheduled break in the academic year for Executive students is during our winter holiday break.  

After first approval of the EAF and required CPT authorization, term-by-term CPT authorization may be renewed prior to the end of the term so there are no gaps in employment between terms. The program is prescribed and students do not select their own courses.  

 


Can the programs be shortened or extended?

Executive programs have a prescribed curriculum. This means that, in most circumstances, programs cannot be shortened or extended. However, there are certain situations where programs may be shortened or extended.

In the case of an extenuating circumstance, such as a medical illness, program extensions may be granted. 

In some cases, shortening a program may be possible. Program accelerations are not guaranteed and are only offered in exceptional circumstances. Any changes to program length must be approved by the program director, the DSO, and academic advising. 
 

How long will it take for my application to be reviewed?

Your admission counselor will review your application within 4 business days of your application being completed. Please be sure to monitor the email address you applied with as updates will be sent there. 
 
 
Tuition Costs

What is the cost for the Executive Master's Programs? 
 
 
 Program  Delivery Model   Credits/ Terms   Program Duration  Rate per Credit   Fees
  Estimated Total
Cost
 Executive Data Science and Analytics  Hybrid  36 Credits,
5 Terms 		 20 Months  $510 $365/term $20,185
 Executive Information Technology (IT)
and Cybersecurity		  Hybrid  36 Credits,
5 Terms		 20 Months  $510 $365/term  $20,185
Executive Health Informatics Hybrid 36 Credits,
5 Terms		 20 Months  $510 $365/term  $20,185
Executive Artificial Intelligence Hybrid 36 Credits,
5 Term/terms		 20 Months $510 $365/term $20,185
 Executive Information Technology (IT)
and Project Management		  Hybrid  40 Credits,
6 Terms 		 24 Months  $510 $365/term  $22,590
 Executive MBA  Hybrid  40 Credits,
6 Terms 		 24 Months  $510 $365/term  $22,590
Executive MBA  Healthcare Administration Hybrid  40 Credits,
6 Terms 		 24 Months $510 $365/term  $22,590

 
Books and other supplies are an estimated total of $900 per year which is not included in the total estimated tuition costs. 
Are payment plans available for paying tuition?

Tuition is due Friday before the term start. Student Financial Services offers payment plans. Payment plans are usually paid in monthly installments and a deposit will be required the Friday before the term start. 

View Tuition and Fee rates here.
Employment Agreement Form (EAF) and Employment

When is the EAF due?
 
The EAF (Employment Agreement Form) is due by the Friday before your program start.


**Questions about the EAF process or completing the EAF can be directed to EAF@nec.edu. 
 

How long will it take for my EAF approval?
 
It will take our Career and Life Planning office's EAF Coordinator 3-5 business days to review you EAF. 
 
Will NEC help me find a job? 

Students are required to have a job or internship secured prior to enrolling in an Executive program at NEC. The Career Life & Planning Office can help with resume review and interview tips. Your job/internship paperwork will be due by the end of the first week of classes. Students who fail to submit their Employment Agreement Form by the deadline will be asked to leave the program.
What happens if I lose my job?
 
If you lose your job while enrolled, you must let your program director and  DSO know. A period of reported unemployment during a term is permissible for no more than 90-days in the aggregate, counted in calendar days for the program. You may remain in the internship course but must complete the alternative assignments established by your program.
  
Additional questions on this process should be directed to your program directors. 
F-1 Specific FAQs
 
When should I transfer my SEVIS? 
 
Our SEVIS record transfer-in deadline is the Wednesday before the term start by 4:30PM. We cannot accept late SEVIS transfers.
► Any work authorization you currently have ends with a SEVIS transfer. Your CPT authorization will begin when your New England College program starts (pending necessary paperwork and approvals).
► We can only accept SEVIS records in Active status. We cannot accept SEVIS records in a Terminated or Completed status.
► You can schedule a SEVIS record transfer in advance. We recommend reaching out to your current DSO to discuss this option. 
 
How long does it take to transfer a SEVIS record?
 
Every school has its own Transfer Out process. Some schools may take up to two weeks. Therefore, you need to discuss the timeline with the DSO at your current school and follow their instructions to request the Transfer Out to New England College.
 
Once your SEVIS record is transferred to NEC, we will update your I-20 in the next 1 to 5 business days. 

 
Can I transfer after my OPT ends?
 
Yes, students have 60-day grace period after OPT/STEM OPT to take action on their SEVIS record. Once your OPT or STEM OPT ends, you must transfer within 60 days to maintain Active status.
 
How long will it take to receive my CPT-authorized I-20?
 
The first step in your CPT authorization is completing the EAF (Employment Agreement Form) and sending it for academic approval. Once your Transfer Release Date arrives, you will submit the approved EAF to your NEC DSO to receive your CPT-authorized I-20. I-20s are typically issued within 1-3 business days of your SEVIS transfer release date. 

 
Do I need to renew my CPT work authorization every term?
 
CPT is authorized by term. Once you start your program, gaps between terms will be covered by your CPT extension process which your NEC DSO will assist with. There should be no gap once you start your program if you do the CPT extension process before the end of every term. Your NEC DSO sends reminders and the process for the CPT extension each term.

 
Am I eligible for OPT after this program?
 
Typically, students are not eligible for OPT after an Executive Master’s program. More than 12 consecutive months of full-time CPT disallows post-completion OPT.
 
Can I travel internationally while enrolled in an Executive program? 
 
F-1 students may travel during breaks, or for short term emergencies, or between terms, even if you are authorized for CPT, if the Travel Signature on page two is valid and you have a valid F-1 Visa. Students may not travel and continue studies from outside the US, however. You must be inside the US to study and remain in status. Please keep in mind, you may remain in the US with an expired F-1 visa but if you leave the US, you may not return with an expired F-1 visa. Please note, you cannot study from outside the US while waiting to renew your visa.
 

Can I take a term off as a break?
 
You may take a term off after a full year of studies at NEC (3 terms) if you want to remain in F-1 status and remain in the US. If you are willing to leave the US and temporarily lose F-1 status, you may take a term of Authorized Early Withdrawal (AEW) at any time. You will have 15 days to leave the US once AEW is authorized by your DSO. When you are ready to return to study you will work with your NEC DSO to reactivate your SEVIS record to Active. 


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