2 US degrees-6 yr H1-B completed-1 yr outside of US stay related question

[USDEGREE]

Hello,

I have a B.S. and M.S. both from a US University. Upon graduation, I have worked on H1-B for 6 yrs that expired in September 2011. Since then, I have been outside the US.

Can I apply for a fresh H1-B in April 2012 quota for a start date of October 2012 (this marks my 1yr away from US anniversary)?

Or, do I have to wait until October 2012 (if quota still available) to EVEN APPLY for the H1-B visa?

P.S. I have US degrees so that should make me eligible for 20k quota as well as the 60k general quota, I think

Regards,

USDEGREE