When an employer files an H-1B cap petition for you this spring, the cap-gap rule automatically bridges the time between the end of your OPT/STEM OPT and the start of H-1B status (1 Oct 2025)—so you can keep working legally with no break. USCIS
Below is the 2025-specific timeline, how to print the right I-20 and FAQs that trip up most graduating F-1s.
1 | 2025 timeline at a glance
| Date | What happens | Effect on status |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Apr 2025 | Employer files cap-subject H-1B (FY 2026) & requests change-of-status (COS) | Cap-gap begins if OPT already expired |
| Apr 1 – Jun 30 | Petition pending | F-1 status + OPT extended (work allowed) |
| Petition approved | Anytime Apr–Sep | Extension continues to start date on approval |
| If selected but still pending on 1 Oct | 1 Oct 2025 | Status extends, but work stops until approval |
| If petition denied/withdrawn | Denial date | 60-day grace period; cap-gap ends immediately |
Source: USCIS Cap-Gap Guidance & 2025 H-1B Cap-Season page. USCISUSCIS
2 | How the auto-extension works
- Status + employment extend automatically—no fee, no separate filing—as long as the H-1B petition:
- Is cap-subject,
- Requests change-of-status, and
- Is timely filed before OPT/STEM OPT ends. USCIS
- SEVIS updates overnight when USCIS inputs the receipt number; most students see “Cap-Gap Extension” within 2–3 business days. Study in the States
3 | What to do if SEVIS doesn’t auto-update
- Email your receipt (I-797C) to your DSO.
- DSO enters the number manually in SEVIS → prints a cap-gap I-20.
- Keep the new I-20 with your EAD—it’s your evidence of extended work authorization.
ICE’s SEVIS Help Hub has a step-by-step for DSOs who need to push a manual update. Study in the States
4 | Travel risk matrix
| Petition status | Leave U.S.? | Return as F-1? | Re-enter date must be … |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pending | Strongly discouraged | No (COS abandoned) | N/A |
| Approved (COS) | OK with valid F-1 visa & cap-gap I-20 | Yes | Before 1 Oct |
| Approved (consular) | Must get H-1B visa stamp | Yes, as H-1B | On/after 20 Sep* |
* Give CBP a 10-day grace before 1 Oct start.
5 | Cap-gap + STEM OPT timing hacks
| Scenario | Best move |
|---|---|
| OPT ends 30 Mar 2025 | File H-1B by 29 Mar or file STEM extension to avoid gap before 1 Apr. |
| STEM OPT ends 15 Jul 2025 | Cap-gap auto-extends to 1 Oct—no extra fee needed. |
| STEM OPT ends 10 Nov 2025 | Cap-gap not needed; petition still recommended as COS for travel simplicity. |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need premium processing to qualify?
No. Cap-gap applies to any timely-filed cap petition; premium only speeds the decision. USCIS
Can I change jobs during the cap-gap?
Yes, if the new H-1B sponsor files a new petition before the prior one is withdrawn; otherwise status ends.
Will unemployment days reset?
No. The original 90/150-day OPT unemployment clock continues during cap-gap.
What if my petition is still pending on 1 Oct?
You may remain in F-1 status but must stop working until approval.
References (curated by usaadmission.com)
- USCIS – “Extension of Post-Completion OPT and F-1 Status for Eligible Students under the H-1B Cap-Gap Regulations” (updated Jan 2025). USCIS
- USCIS – “FY 2026 H-1B Cap Season” page (accessed 27 Apr 2025). USCIS
- Study in the States – “H-1B Status and the Cap-Gap Extension” (rev. Sept 2024). Study in the States
- Study in the States – “F-1 Cap-Gap Extension” SEVIS Help Hub article (Feb 2025). Study in the States
All references link to official DHS or USCIS resources for authoritative compliance.