The H-1B Cap-Gap Extension can be applied to eligible F-1 students who are currently on OPT or their STEM OPT Extension and whose employer has applied for a Change of Status to the H-1B visa.
F-1 students are eligible for the cap-gap extension if they are:
- Currently on a period of unexpired OPT or in the 60-day grace period following OPT.
- In good F-1 status, within allowed unemployment limits.
- The beneficiary of a timely H-1B petition that has been filed by a cap-subject employer who is requesting a change of status and a start date of October 1.
For eligible F-1 students, the cap-gap extends the legal period of OPT authorization until September 30 if the OPT is not yet expired.
- If the OPT has already ended, only the 60-day grace period and continued F-1 status will be extended.
- The cap-gap extension ends if the H-1B petition is withdrawn, revoked or denied.
Once you have proof of filing, contact International Student Services via email to request a Cap-Gap I-20.