F1 to H1B trouble. Need help

[dush0805]

HI,

I plan on graduating in May 2008. (Bachelors of Science - Engineering) i have a few problems/concerns that I cant seem to figure out a solution for.

1) I graduate in May 2008. i assume I get a job offer in March and send my H1B application for 2008. Can I do this without receiving an actual degree?

2) Start my OPT in May which will expire in MAy209. I will send my application for H1B in April 2009. What happens to my status from May to September/October (until I receive my visa)
What are some solutions?

3) Can I go on full time CPT if I enroll for an online degree?

Please advise. I am really confused at this point.

[bugmenot]

Originally Posted by dush0805

HI,

I plan on graduating in May 2008. (Bachelors of Science - Engineering) i have a few problems/concerns that I cant seem to figure out a solution for.


1) I graduate in May 2008. i assume I get a job offer in March and send my H1B application for 2008. Can I do this without receiving an actual degree?

if ur not applying for the masters h1b quota i think u can

2) Start my OPT in May which will expire in MAy209. I will send my application for H1B in April 2009. What happens to my status from May to September/October (until I receive my visa)
What are some solutions?

u can apply for some kaplan or some cheap course that give u an f1 to cover the gap, else u need to leave the country and come back in oct, they could be several other options , best bet would be to consult a lawyer

3) Can I go on full time CPT if I enroll for an online degree?

did'nt get that? CPT is that internship period to work right? so if ur looking at enrolling online degree and then using there CPT to work with ur new employer? dunno if online give CPT period, best to consult a lawyer on this one too
Please advise. I am really confused at this point.

best of luck!

[mhtanim]

1) I graduate in May 2008. i assume I get a job offer in March and send my H1B application for 2008. Can I do this without receiving an actual degree?

Yes, you can apply for H-1B before receiving an actual degree. I did this myself. I had to get a letter from my Dept Chairman stating that I will be graduating so & so semester with a major in ......


2) Start my OPT in May which will expire in MAy209. I will send my application for H1B in April 2009. What happens to my status from May to September/October (until I receive my visa)
What are some solutions?

This is little complex. I think I have read about similar situations in Murthy Chat. What I remember is that once you apply for H-1B in April, you can stay in the U.S. for next 6 months as pending H-1B applicant. However, please don't count my words on this. I suggest that you consult with a good lawyer on this.


3) Can I go on full time CPT if I enroll for an online degree?

If the school (even if it's an online school), can sponsor F-1, you should be fine with CPT. Remember that CPT has to be relevant to your academic work.

Good luck.