extending OPT to 29 months relies on  your major.  If your major falls on those categories, you just need to fill a form like you did while applying for your initial OPT. Since your H1 is already in progress, I am not sure if you can do it now . The best thing would be me contacting your International advisor. If my H1 was under processing, I wouldnot have worried about this ;) Even this reply is not a solution, it definitely gonna birng your thread on top for a while. Expecting some one to come up with good solution.

default061 · Nov 3, 2010 3:23 PM

The best option for you would be to avail for one; however, if you are pursuing both then the last action rule would apply in your case. The last action means whichever status you obtain last would dictate your status. For example lets say you got your OPT extension after the H-1B approval then you are on F-1 and not H-1B and vice versa. If you get your OPT extension first then do make sure to ask your employer to withdraw your H-1B approval right away so you can remain on OPT/F-1 status. .

Keshab Raj Seadie · Nov 16, 2010 7:44 PM

 Hi Keshab,        Can I cancel my OPT extension? I would rather be in H1B than 17 month OPT extension. I applied for premium processing and I might know the result of my H1B this week. thank you. KJ

KJ · Nov 16, 2010 10:15 PM

Yes, you should cancel the OPT extension upon approval of the H-1B so the last action ends on H-1B and not on the F-1. Good Luck. Keshab

Keshab Raj Seadie · Nov 17, 2010 11:11 AM

Hello kesab ji,         My H1B got approved first (also applied for the STEM OPT extension too). I got confused here, as I talked to my DSO, she said SEVIS will automatically complete my I-20 status as “change of status”, and OPT will be cancelled (can not have 2 status at the same time). My question here is, do I need to contact USCIS for the cancellation of OPT extension or It already got cancelled due to the change of status as a H1B. I would really appreciate if anybody would clarify on this issue. thanks. KJ

KJ · Nov 23, 2010 10:13 AM