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
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:
- Log in to MyGlobal and complete the Cap-Gap Extension e-form.
- 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.