Hi all,

I am currently doing my Masters in Accounting at a top 20 business school. I'm trying to break into sell-side equity research at a boutique firm in the south. They are interested in hiring me as a full-time associate but they do not have any prior experience in sponsoring h1b visas for international student. If h1b sponsoring will hinder me from getting a full-time offer at the firm, I'm planning to offer to bear all the expenses related to the h1b process. Has any of you guys been through this process before? How much does h1b visa processing cost including the cost of a lawyer etc. ? If the firm is willing to sponsor me and I have an offer before graduation, do I still need to apply for OPT?

I'd really appreciate any helpful advice/information.

Cheers!