Second MS and F1 to H1B when OPT expired

[mailneo28]

Hi,

Let me give a brief background. I did my first MS from 2008-09 and started working with a company on my OPT. But i wanted to go back to academics so never applied for H1B. Then I came back for another MS in Fall 2011 and I have worked hard and am done with my coursework. I have only thesis left which I will be doing in Fall (in really rare case I can try doing in Summer, but I am not sure if we are allowed to).

There is this another company who is ready to sponsor me, but even if i apply for H1B this year(and get it), will I be able to work from Jan 2013?

What could possibly be the best option for me?

Best,

T

[JoeF]

The start date for an H1 can be up to 6 months into the future, from the application date.

So, when you have a better understanding of when you will be finished with the degree (up to 6 months before the desired start date), the employer can file an H1. It would be worthwhile to keep an eye on the H1 quota uptake.