As an F-1 student, you may be eligible for an extension of your F-1 status through Sept. 30 if you meet the following requirements:
Your potential employer files an H-1B petition in a timely manner with USCIS with an employment start date of Oct. 1.
You are maintaining your F-1 status on the date your potential employer files your H-1B petition.
USCIS receives the H-1B petition in a timely manner and issues a receipt for it.
You may be eligible for an extension of your F-1 status and authorized period of post-completion OPT in the following circumstances:
Your employer files an H-1B petition in a timely manner with USCIS with an employment start date of Oct. 1.
You are maintaining your F-1 status on the date your potential employer files your H-1B petition.
You are in an authorized period of post-completion OPT (including the STEM OPT extension) on the date your potential employer files your H-1B petition.
USCIS receives the H-1B petition in a timely manner and issues a receipt for it.
If you are eligible for the cap gap extension, your proof that you are still in F-1 status and that you may continue OPT (if applicable) is a note on your Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility of Nonimmigrant Student Status.” Obtain an updated Form I-20 from your DSO when the Cap Gap extension begins with a note indicating that your F-1 status and, if applicable, your OPT authorization will continue, typically until Sept. 30.
If your H-1B petition is denied, withdrawn, revoked or not selected, an F-1 student will have the standard 60-day grace period from the date of the rejection notice or their program or OPT end date, whichever is later, to depart the United States.