On October 1, 2013, the cap gap extension will expire. The cap refers to the number of individuals to whom U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services can grant H-1B status every fiscal year.

An F-1 student may apply to change nonimmigrant classification from F-1 to H-1B temporary employment status after completing a program of study or post-completion optional practical training (OPT). The cap gap allows some F-1 students to be eligible for an F-1 status extension and an authorized period of post-completion OPT.

For more information, visit our Cap Gap page or this page of the USCIS website. You also should talk to your designated school official about any questions you have.

Source:

• Extension of Post Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) and F-1 Status for Eligible Students under the H-1B Cap-Gap Regulations; U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services