H4->F1 Travel to India

[AnnJo]

I am a MS computer science student (final year). I came to US on H4 visa (October 2011) and changed to F1 visa in Sept 2012. My I 20 is valid till 25th August 2014 (My H4 visa was also valid till the same date). Since I didn't go to India after coming to US in Oct 2011, I still don't have F1 stamped on my passport. I was wondering whether It would be a good idea to go to India in January 2014? Will there be and issue in getting F1 stamped as my F1 visa is valid only till Aug 2014? Worst case, if my F1 is rejected and I have to come back in H4, will I be able to get OPT by June 2014?

I have heard that once I graduate and I am on OPT, it will not be a good idea to exit US until I get H1B (which will be 2015 October idealy.). What would be the best time for me to plan to go to India for vacation? Have any of you had a similar situation?

[omshiv]

If your F1 is rejected, you are not eligible for OPT.

[jairichi]

If your F1 is rejected, you are not eligible for OPT.

Omshiv is right. It is better to take vacation when you are almost nearing completion of your OPT. 

[nehajain04]

Hi AnnJo,

Did you receive any responses on this? I am looking for any guidance which you might have received.

 

Thanks

[AnnJo]

Hi nehajain,

Most of the responders say there is very hish risk in going to india if you are in a similar situation like mine. The worst case if F1 gets rejected we will oose OPT also.