Should I apply for OPT extension?

[collegian 0]

Hello All,

I am an F-1 graduate working full-time on OPT.My OPT expires on June 22,2012.I just had a few clarifications/questions around OPT to H-1B conversion and OPT extension:

1) As per my understanding, if my employer applies for my H-1B before April 1,2012, I will be eligible for the cap-gap arrangement and will be able to continue to work even after my OPT expires until my H-1B gets approved. Am I correct?

2) What happens if I apply for OPT extension before my employer petitions for my H-1B? Also, can I apply for OPT extension in first place (I am eligible, since I am a STEM graduate)? I mean can I do it myself or is it something which needs to be initiated by my employer?

3) What happens if my H-1B petition gets rejected? Will I still be able to continue working on some kind of cap-gap arrangement?

Please, do reply.

Thanks.

[collegian 0]

~Bump~

Please,shed some light.

[canadian_wife 1,822]

Have you checked with the DSO at your school?

Good luck

[Harsh_77 718]

Check with your DSO, I have never heard of OPT extension, but the OPT regulation has changed since I graduated.

[collegian 0]

Have you checked with the DSO at your school?

Good luck

Check with your DSO, I have never heard of OPT extension, but the OPT regulation has changed since I graduated.

Thanks,for the replies. No, I haven't checked with the DSO at my school. I am thinking of emailing my company's HR before contacting the DSO.