Cap-Gap Extension

On This Page: What is the Cap-Gap Extension • H-1B Petition Requirements • Duration of the Cap-Gap Extension • How to Request a Cap-Gap I-20  • Reporting Requirements

Advisors at International Student Services are not immigration attorneys. We can provide general information about the Cap-Gap Extension and help you maintain your F-1 record while on OPT. However, we cannot provide updates on the status of your petition or give legal guidance about H-1B eligibility, processing, or maintenance of status.

What is the Cap-Gap Extension?

The Cap-Gap Extension allows eligible F-1 students on OPT or STEM OPT to extend their F-1 status and work authorization if they have a timely-filed, non-frivolous H-1B petition under the cap. The extension is not available to beneficiaries of cap-exempt H-1B petitions.

IMPORTANT If your employer files a cap-subject H-1B petition during your 60-day grace period after OPT or STEM OPT ends, you may still qualify for an extension of your F-1 status, but you will not be authorized to work during that time.

H-1B Petition Requirements

To qualify for the Cap-Gap Extension:

  • The petition must request a change of status (not consular processing), and
  • The petition must request a change of status to H-1B that begins in the same fiscal year for which the petition was filed.

Duration of the Cap-Gap Extension

If your H-1B petition is filed while your OPT or STEM OPT is still valid, and you meet the Cap-Gap eligibility requirements, your F-1 status and work authorization may be automatically extended until April 1 of that fiscal year or the start date of the approved H-1B, whichever comes first.

The Cap-Gap Extension automatically terminates if your H-1B petition is rejected, denied, or revoked.

For complete eligibility and status information, please review the USCIS website .

How to Request a Cap-Gap I-20

The cap-gap extension of OPT is automatic for eligible students. There is no separate application process, and you will not receive a new Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for the extended period.

An updated Form I-20 is not required for the cap-gap extension, but it may be requested by your employer as proof of continued work authorization and F-1 status.

To request an updated I-20 showing the Cap-Gap Extension:

  1. Log in to MyGlobal and complete the Cap-Gap Extension e-form.
  2. Upload a copy of the Form I-797, Notice of Action, indicating that the petition was received and accepted by USCIS. The Form I-797 must include a valid receipt number.

IMPORTANT Before submitting your request, please make sure your employment and address information is accurate .

Normal processing time is 10 business days.

Reporting Requirements

During the cap-gap extension period, you are still considered to be in F-1 student status.

To maintain your status, you must continue to follow all reporting and employment requirements associated with post-completion OPT or STEM OPT. These requirements remain in effect throughout the cap-gap extension period.

General Requirements for Maintaining F-1 Status on OPT

  • Working in a position directly related to your major field of study, whether the position is paid, unpaid, or volunteer.
  • Working an average of at least 20 hours per week.
  • Not accruing more than 90 days of unemployment during your OPT period.
  • Reporting any changes to your address, employment information, or visa status within 10 days of the change.
  • Reporting permanent departure from the U.S. within 10 days of leaving.

Additional Requirements for Maintaining Status on STEM OPT

  • Working for an employer that is enrolled in E-Verify.
  • Not accruing more than 150 total days of unemployment across your entire OPT and STEM OPT periods (90 days during initial OPT + 60 days during STEM OPT).
  • Reporting any material changes to your Form I-983 within 10 days.
  • Validating your SEVIS information every 6 months, even if no changes have occurred.
  • Submitting a completed and signed self-evaluation (page 5 of Form I-983), signed by your employer, every 12 months.