What is the Cap-Gap and its benefits? The Cap-Gap extends an eligible F-1 student’s status to bridge the gap between the end of F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT or STEM) and the start of H-1B cap status (typically Oct. 1). This allows the F-1 student to remain in...
Some F-1 students whose H-1B petitions were timely filed with an October 1 start date and requested change of status are eligible for a cap-gap extension of status and employment authorization. The cap-gap is the period between when the F-1 student status would end...
How do I verify the work authorization of a student in F-1 status and STEM OPT? DHS issues F-1 students documents showing employment authorization based on the type of student they are and the type of employment they have. A foreign student in F-1 STEM OPT is issued...
Due to COVID-19, SEVP instituted a temporary exemption earlier this year. It allowed international students to take more online classes for the spring and summer semesters than normally permitted for the purposes of maintaining a full course of study, which enables...
Some F-1 students whose H-1B petitions were timely filed with an October 1 start date and requested change of status are eligible for a cap-gap extension of status and employment authorization. The cap-gap is the period between when the F-1 student status would end...
A Cap-Gap extension allows an eligible F-1 student to bridge the gap between the end of F-1 status and start of H-1B status, so the student can remain in the US and work during the ‘gap’. This PDF answers FAQs about this unique extension. Download the PDF.
For Form I-9 purposes, the following documents can serve as evidence of work authorization for cap-gap students: Expired EADs and Form I-20s endorsed by DSO recommending the cap-gap extension. These are acceptable through September 30 during the year the H-1B...
This quick and practical reference PDF provides the information you need at a glance to identify the key differences between CPT, OPT, and STEM OPT - including the basic requirements and work authorization evidence. Thanks go to Ellen Mazujian and Gabbie Buenano for...