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CPT NOTICE
Effective immediately, UVA is suspending the authorization of non-required, course-credit CPT requests. This includes opportunities tied to academic credit, which are integral to the program of study but not required for degree completion. Visit CPT Update | International Students & Scholars Program for the latest information.
Duration of Status & Academic Mobility
On September 14, 2026, a nationwide preliminary injunction was issued, which blocks the Elimination of Duration of Status rule from taking effect and prohibits DHS and USCIS from implementing it. The government is expected to appeal the injunction. Please continue to monitor our FAQ page, which we will continue to update with any developments as the case continues.
The Department of Homeland Security's rule introduces significant changes to regulations governing F and J visa holders, including:
- The elimination of Duration of Status
- Restrictions on academic mobility
For more information visit FAQ: Elimination of Duration of Status & Academic Mobility | International Students & Scholars Program
OPT Cap-Gap Extension
A student in an active period of post-completion or STEM OPT who is the beneficiary of an H-1B petition filed on their behalf is eligible to remain in the U.S. and to continue working after the expiration of their EAD if:
- A timely-filed cap subject H-1B petition on the former student's behalf is pending or approved. The petition must include a change of status request effective October 1 to H1-B. Petitions requesting consular notification are not eligible for this extension.
- The start date of the H-1B petition is October 1 of the same calendar year; and
- The former student has otherwise maintained all the terms and conditions of his or her F-1 visa status.
The extension is an automatic benefit that extends one's F-1 status and employment authorization until October 1 of the same calendar year. This presumes the student was in F-1 status and OPT was active at the time the H1-B petition was filed. Students in their grace period at the time of filing are not employment authorized.
Note that if the above-referenced H-1B petition is rejected, revoked, withdrawn or denied, the student's employment authorization is immediately terminated and he or she enters the F-1 grace period.
Students may request a new I-20 from the ISO documenting their eligibility for the Cap Gap extension. Also see the USCIS webpage on Cap-Gap regulations.