Cap-Gap

<p>The <b>'cap gap'</b> affects F-1 students whose OPT might expire in spring/summer while waiting for an H-1B to begin on Oct 1.</p><p>If the student's employer files an H-1B petition and it's selected, the student's F-1 status and work authorization are extended from OPT expiration through Sept 30. This prevents a work interruption.</p><p>With a new DHS rule, if needed, this work authorization can now extend up to Apr 1 of the next year if the H-1B is still pending, providing even more cushion.</p>