Free tool

OPT timeline calculator for F-1 students

Computes every critical OPT, STEM OPT, cap-gap, and H-1B deadline from your program end date — based on USCIS rules current as of 2026-06-13. Runs in your browser; nothing is sent to a server.

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Your details

All computation runs in your browser — nothing is sent to a server.

Program end date (I-20)

The end date listed on your I-20, not your graduation ceremony date.

My degree is STEM-eligibleCheck if your CIP code is on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List. The list is matched by institutional CIP code on your I-20, not by degree name.

I am currently on OPTCheck if your EAD is already valid and you have started or are eligible to start working.

Informational reference only — not legal advice.

Always confirm your specific dates with your DSO and review current USCIS guidance before filing. Filing one day late is grounds for denial.

Rules last reviewed: 2026-06-13

Enter your details to see your timeline

The calculator computes every critical OPT, STEM OPT, cap-gap, and H-1B deadline — based on USCIS rules current as of 2026-06-13.

2024–2026 rule changes

What is different from older OPT calculators

Several rules changed between 2024 and 2026 that older online calculators have not been updated to reflect. This calculator encodes the current rules.

Cap-gap now extends to April 1 (not Oct 1)

DHS final rule effective January 17, 2025 changed the cap-gap end date from October 1 to April 1 of the relevant fiscal year. Most older calculators still show the old date — they are wrong.

STEM OPT 180-day auto-extension is unchanged

The 540-day automatic EAD extension was eliminated effective October 30, 2025 — but this does NOT affect F-1 OPT or STEM OPT applicants. STEM OPT has its own 180-day extension rule that remains in place.

BSA biometrics may be required for I-765 (Dec 2025+)

Effective December 12, 2025, USCIS may require a Biometric Services Appointment for some I-765 filings, adding 2–6 weeks to processing time. Plan accordingly.

H-1B weighted lottery starts FY27

Beginning FY27 (March 2026 registration), USCIS uses wage-level-weighted selection instead of random lottery. Wage Level 4 = 4 entries, Level 3 = 3, Level 2 = 2, Level 1 = 1.

Who this is for

Built for F-1 students at every OPT stage

F-1 students approaching graduation

Planning your post-completion OPT application — see the filing window, EAD estimate, and when you can legally start working.

Students currently on standard OPT

Track your 90-day unemployment clock, see when STEM OPT extension filing opens, and plan around H-1B cap timing.

STEM OPT extension applicants

Confirm filing windows, see the 150-day unemployment limit, and visualize cap-gap coverage if your employer files an H-1B.

Sources

Rules encoded in this calculator

The dates and windows shown are based on the following USCIS, DHS, and federal regulatory sources. Last reviewed: 2026-06-13.

USCIS Policy Manual Vol 2 Part F Chapter 5 — Practical Training

www.uscis.gov/policy-manual/volume-2-part-f-chapter-5

USCIS Processing Times

egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/

USCIS STEM OPT page

www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/students-and-exchange-visitors/optional-practical-training-extension-for-stem-students-stem-opt

USCIS Cap-Gap page

www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/h-1b-specialty-occupations/extension-of-post-completion-optional-practical-training-opt-and-f-1-status-for-eligible-students

DHS Study in the States: Cap-gap extended to April 1 (Apr 2025)

studyinthestates.dhs.gov/2025/04/recent-h-1b-rule-extends-f-1-cap-gap-extension

DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List (2024)

www.ice.gov/doclib/sevis/pdf/stemList2024.pdf

USCIS FY27 H-1B Cap registration announcement

www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/fy-2027-h-1b-cap-initial-registration-period-opens-on-march-4

8 CFR 214.2(f) — F-1 student regulations (full text via NAFSA)

www.nafsa.org/regulatory-information/8cfr2142f

Common questions

OPT timeline calculator FAQ

How accurate is this calculator?

The calculator is based on USCIS rules current as of 2026-06-13. The dates it produces are arithmetic — they are not legal advice, and they do not account for case-specific facts (RFEs, dependents, prior periods of OPT, school-specific I-20 quirks). Always confirm your dates with your DSO and review current USCIS guidance before filing.

What is the difference between pre- and post-completion OPT?

Pre-completion OPT is work authorization during your program (limited to 20 hrs/wk during the academic year). Post-completion OPT is the 12 months of full-time work authorization after your program ends — that is what this calculator focuses on. Time spent on pre-completion OPT is deducted from your post-completion OPT period.

Why does cap-gap end on April 1 now?

DHS issued a final rule effective January 17, 2025 changing the cap-gap automatic extension end date from October 1 to April 1 of the relevant fiscal year. This gives F-1 students a longer bridge between their OPT/STEM OPT and the H-1B start date. Calculators that have not been updated since 2024 are showing wrong dates.

What counts as "unemployment" on OPT?

Any cumulative day not working at least 20 hours per week in a degree-related job. Volunteer and unpaid work can count toward employment on standard OPT (with documentation) but NOT on STEM OPT extension (which requires a paid, bona-fide, E-Verify employer relationship). The clock is cumulative — not consecutive days.

Can I file STEM OPT extension early?

You can file up to 90 days before your current OPT EAD expires. USCIS must RECEIVE the I-765 before your current OPT ends — one day late means denial. There are no exceptions. If you file timely, you get an automatic 180-day work authorization extension while the application is pending.

When does H-1B cap registration open?

Annually in early March. For FY27, registration opens March 4, 2026 (noon ET) and closes March 19, 2026 (noon ET). Selection notifications are typically sent by March 31. Petition filing opens April 1.

Is this calculator a substitute for talking to my DSO?

No. Your Designated School Official (DSO) is the legally-correct gatekeeper for F-1 status issues. This calculator helps you understand the timeline, but your DSO must approve your I-20 OPT recommendation, can flag school-specific quirks, and is the authoritative voice for your case. Use this tool to prepare for that conversation, not to skip it.

Is this calculator free?

Yes — completely free, no signup required. The calculation runs entirely in your browser; your dates are never sent to a server. If you also want help reaching recruiters at H-1B sponsors, InTouch is free to try with 3 personalized recruiter emails on us.

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