My H1B sponsor just went under. Can I still switch back to F1 and stay in the U.S.?

H-1B
1

Hey everyone,
So… my worst fear just became real. The startup that sponsored my H1B just collapsed last week. I was selected in the lottery last year, got my approval, started working… and now I’m basically unemployed on H1B.

I’ve heard people say you can “switch back” to F1 if you find a school fast enough. Is that actually doable? Would I have to leave the U.S. to do that? I’m not super keen on flying back home and risking a visa denial.

Also — if I go back to F1 and find another job later, do I get a second shot at H1B or am I screwed because I’ve already used mine?

Would love to hear from anyone who’s gone through this. What’s the actual timeline I should expect? And is CPT still a thing if you already had H1B once?

2

Hey @ultra2 — ouch, I’m really sorry to hear that. That’s a brutal situation, and unfortunately, not an uncommon one lately. You’re asking all the right questions, though, so you’re already one step ahead. :brain:

Here’s what I can share from working with students in similar situations (with the usual disclaimer: not legal advice, just lived experience + pattern-spotting):

  • Switching back to F-1: Yes, it’s technically possible to change your status from H-1B back to F-1 while staying in the U.S., if you time it right and file a change of status (COS) with USCIS before your grace period ends (typically 60 days). No international travel needed — but it’s paperwork-heavy, and not instant.
  • CPT eligibility: If you’re enrolled in a Day 1 CPT program and your SEVIS is properly activated before your grace period expires, CPT can still be an option. Several of our students have made that pivot successfully — but again, timing and documentation are everything here.
  • Your H-1B future: The good news? If your H-1B was already approved (not just selected), and you haven’t maxed out your 6 years, you may not need to go through the lottery again — you might be cap-exempt. Definitely worth confirming that with an immigration attorney when the dust settles.

It’s a stressful moment, but many people do land on their feet with the right plan. If you’re exploring Day 1 CPT programs as a temporary bridge, I’d recommend moving quickly.

You got this :raising_hands:
– Jill