F-1 OPT → H-1B Cap-Gap Calculator
For F-1 students on OPT or STEM OPT with a cap-subject H-1B petition filed as a Change of Status with an October 1 start date, USCIS automatically extends F-1 status while the petition is pending. However, whether your work authorization also continues depends on exact timing. Use this cap-gap calculator to check your status.
The 'Card Expires' date on your EAD (Form I-766).
Use the date on your I-797 receipt notice.
If your employer is cap-exempt, or you're doing consular processing, select No.
We don't store the dates you enter — the calculation runs entirely in your browser.
Cap-Gap Extension FAQs
What is cap-gap?
Cap-gap is an automatic extension of F-1 status (and in some cases, work authorization) for students on OPT or STEM OPT whose employer filed a cap-subject H-1B petition requesting an October 1 start date.
Does cap-gap extend my work authorization or just my F-1 status?
It always extends F-1 status if the petition is timely and cap-subject. It only extends work authorization if your OPT/STEM OPT EAD hadn't already expired at the time the petition was filed — if your EAD had already lapsed, you must stop working even though your F-1 status continues.
What happens if my H-1B petition is denied?
Cap-gap protection ends immediately as of the denial, revocation, or withdrawal decision — even if that happens before October 1 or before your grace period would otherwise end.
What if I missed the 60-day grace period?
If your H-1B petition wasn't filed within 60 days of your OPT/STEM OPT EAD expiring, cap-gap doesn't apply and you may already be out of status. Contact your school's international student office and an immigration attorney immediately.
Does cap-gap apply if my employer is cap-exempt?
Not in the same way. Cap-exempt employers (like universities and certain nonprofits) aren't subject to the October 1 start date limit, so the standard cap-gap framework generally doesn't apply the same way as it does for cap-subject employers.
Can I travel internationally during the cap-gap period?
International travel during the cap-gap period is extremely risky. Because your EAD card is usually expired, you may not have the proper documents to re-enter the US. Always consult your DSO and immigration attorney before traveling.
How do I prove my work authorization to my employer during cap-gap?
You must provide your employer with your expired OPT EAD card and a new I-20 from your DSO that explicitly shows the cap-gap extension has been applied to your SEVIS record.
Does the cap-gap extension cost extra money?
No. The cap-gap extension is an automatic regulatory benefit and does not require an additional filing fee or a separate application to USCIS, though your DSO must update your SEVIS record.
What if my H-1B is selected in the lottery but not filed until July?
The cap-gap protection only begins on the date the H-1B petition is actually filed with USCIS (the receipt date). If your EAD expires in June and you wait until July to file, you will have a gap in work authorization.
Does cap-gap apply if I am doing consular processing?
No. Cap-gap only applies if the H-1B petition is filed as a Change of Status (COS). If your employer files for consular processing, you must leave the US before your grace period ends and re-enter with an H-1B visa stamp.
Related Pages
Not affiliated with USCIS, DHS, or the US State Department. This tool provides general estimates based on published rules and is not legal advice. Always consult a qualified immigration attorney about your specific case.