Hi

To all OPT/STEM/H1B gurus here is my situation. 

My OPT is due to expire on 06/28/11. I have already completed all the documents and plan to apply on 04/01/11 for FY 2012. 
If I get granted the H1B visa, everything is going to be fine. I will have the cap-gap extension to cover me through the end of the OPT to the day I will be granted the H1B visa.

The only thing I'm worried about is what if I don't get it. It will be very unlikely to be not granted the H1B visa due to problem with my records so I'm just worried about the lottery system they have. I'm trying to be ready for the situation in which I will be denied H1B for FY 2012.

I was thinking of doing a STEM extension in this situation so that I would be good for the next 17 months. This is where I get stuck. I don't know if F1 students are eligible to apply for STEM extension once the H1B visa is denied. Even if it is possible I don't know if I will be getting the denial letter before 06/28/11( OPT expiration date) so that I can file for the STEM extension in timely manner. I also don't know if I will be eligible to apply for H1B visa for FY 2013 if I were to get the STEM extension.

Please help me with this situation!

If you are qualified for STEM extension do opt for that, you'll save $$ on SS/Medicare deduction :-)