Blog Feed: Redbus 2 US : Lifestyle for prospective and current Internationals on F1 and H1b visa

Who is Academic Advisor ? Why should you talk to them after you reach USA ?

Published on 2012-05-25 03:31:36

In American Universities every student ( including international students) is assigned to an Academic advisor by the school. Let me share some of the tasks they help you with and the importance of talking to your academic advisor in this article. What does an Academic Advisor help you with ? Academic advisor is  someone from [...] Related posts: What is Graduate School? International students office? Academic Department? New H1B Online Advisor Tool by US Department of Labor(DOL) Why NOT to copy [..] > read more

USCIS H1B News : Delay in H1B Visa 2013 Receipt Notices Dispatch

Published on 2012-05-23 23:13:46

Typically, USCIS dispatches all of the H1B receipt notices to employers around 10 to 15 days (within 30 days), but unfortunately, there has been a delay this year. Some of you, who have filed for H1B Visa for fiscal year 2013 quota may be waiting for the H1B visa application receipt notices. When you apply [...] Related posts: Official News : USCIS to accept H1B Visa 2013 petitions from April 2nd, 2012 H1B Visa 2013 Cap Count update USCIS – CSC 22,323 – April 4, 2012 News : New H1B [..] > read more

H1B 2013 May 22nd Cap Count Update – 6,500. High Volume, Prediction ?

Published on 2012-05-23 01:25:03

Typically, USCIS releases its weekly H1B cap count updates on Monday, it got delayed by a day this time….Anyways, they released the cap count updates for fiscal year 2013 earlier today . The numbers include all the H1B petitions that USCIS received until Friday, May 18th, 2012. Below is the summary of the count updates: [...] Related posts: H1B 2013 Cap count Update April 30th – 5,600 visa petitions. High Volume ? April 23rd H1B Visa 2013 Cap count Update – 5,600 petitions, Pr [..] > read more

First time in USA as F1 Student – Airport Pickup – How to arrange transportation ?

Published on 2012-05-22 02:05:05

I still remember my first airport pick up experience as international student, it was crazy…I was very happy that I scheduled an airport pickup with International students office and Indian Students association… I would have been totally lost without it…Let me share the importance of arranging for an airport pickup and how to get that [...] Related posts: What are Student Organizations in US Universities ? How to start a Student Organization? Advantages of being on the Board of [..] > read more

Why NOT to study Masters Degree in small towns in America ? Disadvantages

Published on 2012-05-17 01:48:30

As an international student, with a dream to study in US, getting admission to study MS/MBA in any university in America would be very exciting… But, if you make wrong choices in picking schools, you may have a tough time after graduation. Let me explain you the importance of studying Masters in a bigger city [...] Related posts: Importance of owning a Car in small cities of USA ? Advantages and Disadvantages in big cities having a Car ? H4 Visa Study MS/ MBA in US: In-state Tuition and ot [..] > read more

What is CIP Code ? Its Importance for 17 month OPT Extension. Find it on I20

Published on 2012-05-16 00:01:22

Some of you may have heard about CIP codes for your degree, but may not have paid much attention to it or bothered to worry about its importance.  Unfortunately, one of my very good friends had a bitter experience with his OPT extension, which was tied to CIP Code. Let me shed some light on [...] No related posts. > read more

94 STEM Degree Programs added to 17 month OPT Extension by DHS

Published on 2012-05-15 05:56:53

To attract and retain International students talent in America, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on May 11th, 2012  announced expanded list of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math )  designated degrees that qualify for 17 month OPT (Optional Practical Training) Extension.  In fact, changes to OPT rules in 2008 added 17 month OPT extension [...] Related posts: What is CIP Code ? Its Importance for 17 month OPT Extension. Find it on I20 H1B Visa Extension – When to file p [..] > read more

May 14th H1B 2013 Cap count Update – 5,300 filed. Spike in petitions, Prediction ?

Published on 2012-05-15 02:16:05

Yet another Monday, USCIS has been very prompt with its weekly H1B cap count updates…Earlier today, they released the cap count updates for fiscal year 2013 . The numbers include all the H1B petitions that USCIS received until Friday, May 11th, 2012. Here is the summary of the update: 4,200 new H1B petitions were filed [...] Related posts: April 23rd H1B Visa 2013 Cap count Update – 5,600 petitions, Prediction H1B Visa 2013 Cap count Update – April 17th – 4,700 New peti [..] > read more

May 8th H1B 2013 Cap count Update – 4,700 visa petitions. Less filings, Analysis

Published on 2012-05-08 02:19:00

As usual, USCIS updated its weekly summary of H1B cap count numbers for fiscal year 2013 earlier today. The numbers include all the H1B petitions received until Friday, May 4th, 2012. Below is the summary of the update: 3,300 new H1B petitions were filed under Regular quota 1,400 new H1B petitions were filed under Masters [...] Related posts: April 23rd H1B Visa 2013 Cap count Update – 5,600 petitions, Prediction H1B Visa 2013 Cap count Update – April 17th – 4,700 New petitio [..] > read more

Indian Passport Renewal in USA 2012 – Houston – Checklist, Steps

Published on 2012-05-05 02:19:18

One of our readers, Benny, share his passport renewal experience in America. Thanks to Benny for taking time to share his experience with our readers. You can share your experience here Indian Passport Renewal Experience in USA I am writing my experience to help those who want to renew their passport in Houston Consulate. I [...] Related posts: New H1B / L1 visa stamping documents checklist by US Consulate Office Why should you apply for Passport before registering for GRE or TOEFL? Apply H1B Vi [..] > read more

H1B 2013 Cap count Update April 30th – 5,600 visa petitions. High Volume ?

Published on 2012-05-01 01:24:18

USCIS released its weekly update of H1B cap count numbers for fiscal year 2013 earlier today. The cap count update includes H1B petitions received until Friday, April 27th, 2012. Below is the summary of the update: 4,200 new H1B petitions were filed under Regular quota 1,400 new H1B petitions were filed under Masters degree quota [...] Related posts: H1B Visa 2013 Cap count Update – April 17th – 4,700 New petitions – Prediction April 23rd H1B Visa 2013 Cap count Update – [..] > read more

April 23rd H1B Visa 2013 Cap count Update – 5,600 petitions, Prediction

Published on 2012-04-24 08:03:06

USCIS has released its weekly H1B cap count updates for FY 2013 yesterday. The cap count update includes petitions received until April 20th, 2012. Below are the numbers: 4,400 new H1B petitions were filed under Regular quota 1,200 new H1B petitions were filed under Masters degree quota H1B Visa 2013 cap count updates by USCIS [...] Related posts: H1B Visa 2013 Cap count Update – April 17th – 4,700 New petitions – Prediction H1B visa 2012 Cap count update May 23rd Update- 1700 [..] > read more

H1B Visa 2013 Cap count Update – April 17th – 4,700 New petitions – Prediction

Published on 2012-04-18 03:14:30

USCIS has released its weekly H1B cap count updates for FY 2013 earlier today. They have considered all the petitions received until April 13th, 2012. Below are the numbers: 3,200 new H1B petitions were filed under Regular quota 1,500 new H1B petitions were filed under Masters degree quota April 17th H1B Visa cap count updates [...] Related posts: H1B Visa 2013 Cap Count update USCIS – CSC 22,323 – April 4, 2012 USCIS Official H1B Visa 2013 Cap Count update April 9th – 25,600 [..] > read more

H1B Visa Interview at Hyderabad – 221(g) – H4 Stamping Success, Feb 2012

Published on 2012-04-12 02:43:42

One of our readers, Nikhil Posted his experience on blog. It is an interesting experience as he went for stamping again and got H4 visa. Thanks to Nikhil !  You can share your experience here Background of Stay in America F1, H1B F1 from Aug2006 to Dec2009 (including OPT) First H1 from Dec 2009 issued [...] Related posts: L1A Blanket Visa Stamping Chennai 2012 – Pink Slip – Success Visitor Visa (B2,Parents) USA- Documentation, Stamping Experience 2011 – Hyderabad, India F1 Visa S [..] > read more

Plan to Study MS/MBA in US from B.Tech first year to final year

Published on 2012-04-11 01:39:40

One of our readers, Sameera, asks on our Facebook page “ Hello. I’m currently pursuing B.Tech II year (CSE).Will be entering III year in June. Want to pursue MS in US. When do you think I should apply for GRE?” Looking at the question, I thought, wouldn’t it be nice to have a plan with [...] Related posts: 8 Reasons to plan study MS in USA 2 years before graduating B.Tech/BS ? Guide / steps to study in USA for International students? How to plan? Part – 1 F1 Visa to USA Rejection � [..] > read more

USCIS Official H1B Visa 2013 Cap Count update April 9th – 25,600 Analysis

Published on 2012-04-10 00:30:17

USCIS has released its first official H1B cap count updates for fiscal year 2013 earlier today. We had some unofficial H1B cap count numbers released by AILA on April 4th, which are pretty close to the current numbers ( 22,323). First Official H1B Visa cap count updates by USCIS in April : H1B Petition Filings [...] Related posts: April 9th, 2010 Official USCIS latest H1B visa Cap Count FY 2011 filing update & Analysis April 19th, 2010 Official USCIS H1B visa Cap Count FY 2011 filing update & A [..] > read more

H1B Visa 2013 Cap Count, Fees, News Updates, Deadlines, FAQs

Published on 2012-04-09 00:32:34

Updated date : April 9, 2012 Many of you have lots of questions related to H1B visa 2013. Would like to address all of these questions, including news updates on this page. It is an evolving page and have constant updates like cap count, USCIS news releases. What is H1B visa 2013 ?   Some of [...] Related posts: Official News : USCIS to accept H1B Visa 2013 petitions from April 2nd, 2012 News : New H1B visa Rule FY 2013 – Advance Registration by Employer ? Maybe April 1, 2012 ? H1B Visa [..] > read more

H1B Visa 2013 Cap Count update USCIS – CSC 22,323 – April 4, 2012

Published on 2012-04-05 23:32:39

All of you might be curious to know about the H1B cap count updates for the fiscal year 2013. The reality is that we do not have an official H1B cap count update from USCIS on their website. But, American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), has informally announced on their membership network that they have received [...] Related posts: Official News : USCIS to accept H1B Visa 2013 petitions from April 2nd, 2012 April first week H1B visa 2012 Cap count update ? When ? How Often ? April 19th, [..] > read more

H1B Visa Transfer 2012 – RFE – Extension of Stay Denied – Stamping Successful

Published on 2012-04-02 23:09:09

One of our readers shared their unique experience related to H1B Visa extension. Congrats to Sandy on visa extension and successful stamping. Thanks Sandy for sharing your experience with our readers. You can also share it here Employer Change and H1B Transfer – USCIS H1B petition  - RFE Hello All, I hope my experience helps [...] Related posts: H1B Stamping 221(g) Query – Successful Visa stamping Experience Chennai 2011 Travel, Stay, Lessons – H1B visa Stamping experience 2 [..] > read more

H1B Visa 2013 filing Fee ? Should you pay for H1B cost ?

Published on 2012-04-01 23:54:49

With H1B Visa filing for fiscal year(FY) 2013 set to start tomorrow, some of you might be wondering with questions like : Should I pay for H1B fee ? Will the H1B sponsor pay for the H1B visa application filing fee ? What cost can I bear ? What are the laws that govern the [...] Related posts: What is the cost of studying in USA ? MBA/MS in US Cost? How to apply for cheaper schools ? Apply H1B Visa Documents CheckList ? Cost ? What NOT to give ? Plan/ Schedule to apply H1B visa FY 2013 > read more

H1B Visa Rejection Rate, RFEs, 2012 Report – History from 2003 to 2011

Published on 2012-03-29 06:11:25

With USCIS official press release, all prospective H1B applicant for fiscal year( FY) 2013 are eagerly waiting for their petitions to be filed. If you have not, check out the H1B visa 2013 lottery prediction article, it has some insights with past date. Anyways, National foundation for American Policy (NFAP), which is a non-profit organization, [...] Related posts: Not Selected in H1B lottery – Sample Rejection letter from USCIS Flash News : H1B visa FY 2012 Cap reached. Next filing April [..] > read more

Official News : USCIS to accept H1B Visa 2013 petitions from April 2nd, 2012

Published on 2012-03-27 23:49:23

We have been expecting this official news for about few weeks now, finally USCIS did a press release earlier today stating that it would accept H1B visa petitions for the fiscal year ( FY) 2013 starting from April 2, 2012. It is pretty similar to the press releases of H1B visa 2012 and H1B visa [...] Related posts: News : H1B visa 2012 – USCIS to Accept Petitions from April 1, 2011 Latest H1B visa 2011 News : USCIS to accept H1B petitions from April 1, 2010 Flash News : H1B visa FY 2012 Ca [..] > read more

H1B visa 2013 Predictions ? Lottery ? Data Analysis

Published on 2012-03-27 02:12:08

As most of you know, in general, USCIS accepts H1B visa petitions for the next fiscal year beginning April 1st of previous year. Last year USICS did a press release on March 18th, 2011, indicating that it would accept H1B visas for Fiscal Year (FY) 2012 starting April 1st. As of today, we do not [...] Related posts: Predict H1B visa 2012 Lottery by USCIS ? Past Data Analysis ? H1B Visa 2011 Lottery Prediction Graph with 2010 Quota data Analysis Summary of H1B visa 2011: Lottery Prediction, News [..] > read more

L1A Blanket Visa Stamping Chennai 2012 – Pink Slip – Success

Published on 2012-03-07 01:46:42

One of our readers, Karthikeya,  have shared his L1A Blanket Visa stamping experience and important tip to learn from his experience.  Please review. Thanks to Karthikeya for sharing his experience.  If you would like to share any experiences, please email to redbus2us (at) gmail (dot) com L1A Blank Visa Stamping Experience Chennai 2012 I went [...] Related posts: H1B Stamping 221(g) Query – Successful Visa stamping Experience Chennai 2011 L1A Visa Stamping Experience 2011, Chennai Doc [..] > read more

Plan/ Schedule to apply H1B visa FY 2013

Published on 2012-02-08 21:35:41

If you are planning to work in America on H1B visa, it is very important that you plan the process as it could get hectic at the eleventh hour. If you currently work for a company and the same company is sponsoring your H1B visa, your immigration attorney would be behind you with proper planning [...] Related posts: Sample schedule: Fall 2011- When to apply for MS or MBA in USA? Deadlines? International Students plan Timeline/Schedule to apply for H1B visa petition of 2011 quota in 2010. When to [..] > read more

Change of Status (COS) – F1, H1B, L1, H4, L2, F2 – FAQs – All you need to Know !

Published on 2012-01-28 20:29:00

What is Change of Status? When an immigrant enters US, that alien is given a visa category. This is mentioned in the I-94 that is issued at PoE (Port of Entry). Immigration laws allow the alien to move from one visa category to another (say from H-4 to H-1 or F-1 to H-1 or L-1 [...] Related posts:Process of F1 to H1B Visa change of Status. OPT Rules, Planning – Tips L1 to H1B visa conversion Advantages ? L1 to H1B transfer, change of status implications in US Change of Status or first ti [..] > read more

The Beast called 221g – Process and FAQs

Published on 2012-01-28 18:22:11

Any person planning to travel to US has to go through an interview process at the US embassy/consulate, and as part of the interview process, the officer reviews all the submitted document and information and makes the call whether to approve or reject the visa. As part of the process, they often issue 221g when [...] Related posts:Change of Status (COS) – F1, H1B, L1, H4, L2, F2 – FAQs – All you need to Know ! Drop Box submission Process for 221(g) query – H1B – [..] > read more

Good Bye 2011 ! What to expect in 2012 ?

Published on 2011-12-31 10:32:03

It has been quite some time, since I have written an article. Well, I don’t have any excuses…Life and Luck has not smiled much at me in Year 2011…Hope it changes in 2012… Status of our Blog in 2011 Unfortunately, I have not been able to contribute much to the blog in year 2011 due [...] Related posts:News : H1B visa 2012 – USCIS to Accept Petitions from April 1, 2011 Flash News : H1B visa FY 2012 Cap reached. Next filing April 1, 2012 April 8th 2011 – H1B vi [..] > read more

Flash News : H1B visa FY 2012 Cap reached. Next filing April 1, 2012

Published on 2011-11-23 23:21:29

USCIS  released a press note saying that they have received enough number  of H1B petitions for fiscal year (FY) 2012. i.e, they have notified that  November 22, 2011, will be  the final receipt date for H1B petitions filed towards FY 2012 quota.  Also, as you know, Masters degree quota cap was reached on October 19, [...] Related posts:News : H1B visa 2012 – USCIS to Accept Petitions from April 1, 2011 News : New H1B visa Rule – Advance Registration by Employer ? Maybe April [..] > read more

Travel, Stay, Lessons – H1B visa Stamping experience 2011 in Chennai

Published on 2011-10-18 14:03:01

One of our awesome readers, Karthik, shared his H1B visa stamping experience in detail with lot of information about travel, stay and preparation. Firstly, Congrats to Karthik and Thanks to him for taking time to write and share his experience with our readers. You can share yours as well here I’ve been following this website [...] Related posts:New H1B visa Stamping Experience FY 2011 Quota – Chennai, India H1B visa stamping experience 2011 – Chennai, India – 221(g) – Q [..] > read more

Choosing MBA School – Brand vs Program, Faculty, Cost. MBA Goal ?

Published on 2011-08-18 07:08:26

When you plan to apply for MBA program at a Business school in America, you hear people giving you all sorts of advice for choosing the school. Most of them would advice you to get an MBA from an Ivy league Business school like Harvard or from a top 10 B-school like  Stanford…but it many [...] Related posts:What is the cost of studying in USA ? MBA/MS in US Cost? How to apply for cheaper schools ? US Universities Rankings vs. Graduate Program? What to Consider? If MS in USA, what is you [..] > read more

August 15th, H1B visa 2012 – 3500 filings in 2 weeks. Bad US Economy !

Published on 2011-08-15 14:40:26

If you were wondering why there wasn’t an update on H1B visa FY 2012 cap numbers last week, the fact is that USCIS did not update them. Anyways, just now, USCIS updated H1B cap count numbers, here are the numbers since last update by USCIS. They have released cap count considering all petitions filed until [...] Related posts:August 3rd, H1B visa 2012 – No change in Filings-US Debt Ceiling – Job Cuts ? April 27th, H1B visa 2012 Cap count update – 1700 filed US Economy More [..] > read more

L1A Visa Stamping Experience 2011, Chennai

Published on 2011-08-07 12:54:19

Recently a good friend of mine, Babu attended L1A visa stamping at Chennai. He was kind enough to write up and share his experience with our readers. Thanks to Babu ! Background L1-A Visa stamping I am a resident of Hyderabad, since there were no dates available in Hyderabad so I went to Chennai Consulate [...] Related posts:H1B Stamping 221(g) Query – Successful Visa stamping Experience Chennai 2011 L2 Visa Stamping Experience 2011 – Chennai, India New H1B visa Stamping Experienc [..] > read more

Apply L2 Visa EAD card – Documents Checklist, Sample Cover letter

Published on 2011-08-06 13:24:44

One of my very good friend Babu applied to get EAD Card for his wife, who is on L2 Visa and got it successfully without any issues.  One of our blog readers asked few questions regarding the same. He was kind enough to answer them and share the sample cover letter template. Thanks to Babu [...] Related posts:Apply H1B Visa Documents CheckList ? Cost ? What NOT to give ? New H1B / L1 visa stamping documents checklist by US Consulate Office Process and Documents needed for Parents Visa to visi [..] > read more

August 3rd, H1B visa 2012 – No change in Filings-US Debt Ceiling – Job Cuts ?

Published on 2011-08-04 01:50:45

USCIS updated H1B cap count numbers today, here are the numbers since last update by USCIS. They have released cap count considering all petitions filed until July 29th, 2011. New 1,100 cap eligible petitions were filed for Regular quota New 500 cap eligible petitions were filed for MS/Advanced degree quota. July 29th,  H1B cap count [...] Related posts:July 18th, H1B visa 2012 cap filings Doubled – 2,100. Debt Ceiling issue August 15th, H1B visa 2012 – 3500 filings in 2 weeks. Ba [..] > read more

July 5, H1B visa 2012 Cap count update- 1,600 petitions filed

Published on 2011-07-05 12:38:01

Just now, USCIS updated H1B cap count numbers, considering all the petitions received until July 1st, 2011. Here are the numbers since last update by USCIS: New 1,000 cap eligible petitions were filed for Regular quota New 600 cap eligible petitions > read more

June 28, H1B visa 2012 update- 1,600 filed – Low Consumer Confidence ?

Published on 2011-06-29 14:22:15

USCIS updated H1B cap count numbers late yesterday, considering all the petitions received until June 24th, 2011. Here are the numbers since last update by USCIS: New 1,100 cap eligible petitions were filed for Regular quota New 500 cap eligible peti > read more

Injured or Sick ? Care, Attention, Affection – India vs America – Experience

Published on 2011-06-25 13:51:56

Almost a year ago, when I was in America, I got sick and was bedridden for a week…right now, I am bedridden in India with an injury. Both are quite different experiences, let me share my thoughts. My perspective for writing this article is that > read more

June 21, H1B visa 2012 Cap count update- 1,700 petitions filed – Bad US Economy ?

Published on 2011-06-21 03:23:20

USCIS updated H1B cap count numbers earlier today, considering all the petitions received until June 17th, 2011. Here are the numbers since last update by USCIS: New 1,100 cap eligible petitions were filed for Regular quota New 600 cap eligible petit > read more

June 14, H1B visa 2012 Cap count update- 2,500 petitions filed – Inflation ?

Published on 2011-06-15 09:29:09

USCIS updated H1B cap count numbers for the past two weeks yesterday.  They updated count considering all the petitions received until June 13th, 2011.  History of the Cap count Updates are tracked on our H1B Visa 2012 Cap Count Tracking page as we > read more

Sample Experience Letters for Green Card (PERM) processing in USA

Published on 2011-06-11 07:25:28

If your company is looking to file Green Card using permanent labor certification program (PERM) for you, they would ask you to submit previous work experience letters from your past companies. Often, many of us would be running around to get the let > read more

June 6, H1B visa 2012 Cap count update- 800 petitions filed. Less Jobs ?

Published on 2011-06-07 07:09:03

USCIS updated H1B cap count numbers yesterday.  They updated count considering all the petitions received until June 1st, 2011.  History of the Cap count Updates are tracked on our H1B Visa 2012 Cap Count Tracking page as well. Here are the numbers > read more

H1B visa 2012 Cap count update May 31st Update – US Economy Outlook Bad ?

Published on 2011-05-31 14:22:25

Just now, USCIS released updated H1B cap count numbers, they updated cap count by considering all the petitions received until May 26th, 2011.  Updates are tracked on our H1B Visa 2012 Cap Count Tracking page as well. Here are the numbers : New 800 > read more

Sample 221(g) H1B visa Denial/Refusal letter from US Consulate India

Published on 2011-05-24 14:24:08

Some of you might be curious to see how a H1B visa denial letter would look like, if H1B visa have been refused for an applicant. Below is a sample denial letter received from US consulate after the applicant submitted documents for given 221(g) quer > read more

H1B visa 2012 Cap count update May 23rd Update- 1700 petitions filed

Published on 2011-05-23 14:34:44

USCIS released updated H1B cap count numbers earlier today, they updated cap count by considering all the petitions received until May 20th, 2011.  I updated the cap count on our H1B Visa 2012 Cap Count Tracking page as well. Here are the numbers : > read more

H1B visa 2012 Cap count update May 18th Update- 1600 petitions filed

Published on 2011-05-19 23:39:18

USCIS released updated H1B cap count numbers couple of days ago, they updated cap count by considering all the petitions received until May 13th, 2011.  I updated the cap count on our H1B Visa 2012 Cap Count Tracking page earlier, but did not get a > read more

H1B visa 2012 Cap count update May 12th Update- 1700 petitions filed

Published on 2011-05-11 16:09:22

USCIS released updated H1B cap count numbers on May 10th, they updated cap count by considering all the petitions received until May 6th, 2011.  Here are the numbers : New 1000 cap eligible petitions were filed for Regular quota New 700 cap eligible > read more

May 2nd, 2011 H1B visa 2012 Cap count update – 1900 petitions filed

Published on 2011-05-02 22:17:42

USCIS released updated H1B cap count numbers earlier today, they counted all the petitions received until April 29th, 2011.  Here are the numbers : New 1200 cap eligible petitions were filed for Regular quota New 700 cap eligible petitions were file > read more

Etiquette in India – Completely different from USA – My experience

Published on 2011-04-28 13:46:16

I heard so many things from my friends, who worked in India, that corporate life in India is much different from America…I never had a chance to experience it as I left to America right after my undergrad…incidentally, our company has off > read more

April 27th, H1B visa 2012 Cap count update – 1700 filed US Economy More Jobs ?

Published on 2011-04-27 14:47:32

There has been a delay in update by USCIS this week, anyways they released H1B visa cap count updates earlier today. They counted all the petitions received until April 22nd, 2011.  Here are the numbers : New 900 cap eligible petitions were filed fo > read more

Sample Spring 2012 Plan for Applying to MS or MBA in USA

Published on 2011-04-19 13:41:03

Students planning to apply for Spring 2012 would be wondering what would be an ideal plan to apply for next Spring….Last year, I have spent quite some time trying to explain the deadlines and give a sample plan. You must read this article :Appl > read more

H1B visa 2012 Cap count Update – April 18th, 2011 – 1800 Filed

Published on 2011-04-18 15:20:24

USICS released H1B visa cap count updates earlier today i.e April 18th, 2011. They counted all the petitions received until April 15th, 2011.  Here are the numbers : New 1,200 cap eligible petitions were filed for Regular quota New 600 cap eligible > read more

April 8th 2011 – H1B visa 2012 Cap count Update – Filings down ?

Published on 2011-04-11 02:05:33

USICS released its first H1B visa cap count updates on April 8th, 2011. They counted all the petitions receieved until April 7th, 2011.  According to their update, below are the numbers : First H1B cap count updates by USCIS in April : Regular H1B C > read more

H1B Visa Petition Processing Steps at USCIS Service Center – Adjudication info

Published on 2011-04-06 13:42:38

Many of the H1B visa petitioners ( employers) and the employees are curious about what exactly happens at the USCIS service center after a H1B visa application is submitted. Let me share with you the high level process on USCIS’s side as mentioned > read more

April first week H1B visa 2012 Cap count update ? When ? How Often ?

Published on 2011-04-05 05:53:30

Now that we are past April 1st, 2011, many of you might be curious about when would be the first official H1B cap count update FY 2012 from USCIS…Let me shed some light based on my experience and past data. When will the first H1B visa 2012 cap > read more

Moving to new location in USA – How to mingle with Locals ? Lifestyle ?

Published on 2011-04-03 14:31:01

When I first moved to America for education, I lived in the south…after my education I moved to Midwest for work…I lived in quite a few states and also traveled to quite a few states…every state is different, the lifestyle of locals > read more

When can H1B visa 2012 Petition be Rejected ? USCIS Guidelines

Published on 2011-04-02 02:21:51

USCIS gives a set of guidelines to petitioners explaining the steps to be followed by them to avoid rejections or issuance of RFE ( request for evidence). USCIS keeps adding new guidelines or modifying existing ones.  Below is the list of those guid > read more

Predict H1B visa 2012 Lottery by USCIS ? Past Data Analysis ?

Published on 2011-03-30 10:28:50

H1B visa petitions acceptance date for fiscal year 2012 is right around the corner as mentioned in USCIS H1B acceptance press release …some of you might be wondering with questions like Will there be lottery for H1B visa FY 2012 quota ? Can we > read more

Drop Box submission Process for 221(g) query – H1B – Is there a Box ? Hyderabad

Published on 2011-03-23 14:47:44

As I got a 221(g) query for H1B Visa stamping at Chennai, they gave me a blue form with list of documents to submit. My original perception about drop box was that there would be a drop box and you just drop off your documents packet in that box̷ > read more

News : H1B visa 2012 – USCIS to Accept Petitions from April 1, 2011

Published on 2011-03-20 09:41:33

USCIS did a press release on Friday about accepting H1B visa petitions for Fiscal year 2012. Nothing has drastically changed from the H1B visa 2011 press release. Summary of the press release by USCIS for H1B visa FY 2012 : USCIS will accept H1B visa > read more

H1B visa petition filing Deadline – Is it April 1st ? October 1st ? USCIS Fiscal Year ?

Published on 2011-03-18 14:50:03

One of our readers, Ivan,  asked me below question over email , just sharing the answer as it can be helpful for those filing for H1B visa 2012 Quota I was an International student on F1 visa. Now I am under my OPT which expires December 27th, 2011. > read more

News :H1B Visa Holders benefit – Startup Visa Act 2011 – Kerry Lugar Bill

Published on 2011-03-16 16:05:09

Almost after one year of initial proposal of Startup Visa act of 2010 & EB6 Visa, the bill was re-introduced as ‘Startup Visa Act 2011’ on March 14th, 2011, adding some new terms to include H1B visa holders and also more options. Summary of t > read more

Can you Bargain in America ? Buying Cars, Clothes, Shopping on Street ?

Published on 2011-03-13 13:39:58

Some of you, who grew up in countries like India might be used to bargaining before you buy something or hire something….It could be as simple as bargaining the rate for taxi or auto rickshaw…Also, it could be in instances like buying stu > read more

6 Tips from 221(g) Query -Chennai – H1B visa Stamping Experience 2011 – Extension

Published on 2011-03-12 08:12:58

As I previously shared about my frustrations of filling DS-160 form for H1B visa stamping and how to avoid them…I would like continue to  share some of my insights from my H1B visa stamping experience, including the visa interview. Background > read more

News : New H1B visa Rule – Advance Registration by Employer ? Maybe April 1, 2012 ?

Published on 2011-03-03 14:53:42

USCIS published a rule for H1B filings in late December, 2010, Read this article “ H1B Employer to register before filing “. It has moved from “Notice of Public rule Making (NPRM) to next step.  It is published in the federal register and will > read more

Visitor Visa (B2,Parents) USA- Documentation, Stamping Experience 2011 – Hyderabad, India

Published on 2011-02-28 13:48:12

One of our readers, Ramakanth, was gracious to share his experience preparing documentation for Visitor Visa(B2) for his parents to visit USA in 2011 , including visa interview questions. Thanks to Ramakanth for taking time to share his experience wi > read more

Not Selected in H1B lottery – Sample Rejection letter from USCIS

Published on 2011-02-28 08:26:42

Some of you might be curious to see how a rejection letter would look like, if you were not selected in H1B lottery. A good friend of mine sent me a copy of the same to share with our readers.  If you look closely, USCIS says that they returned the > read more

H1B visa cap reach dates for FY 2004 – 2011 – H1B 2012 filing decision

Published on 2011-02-27 14:24:02

In general, it is always a good idea to look at past data and understand the trend for future decisions.  Let us look at H1B cap reach dates by year from 2003 to 2011 in this article and analyze on how it can help us to estimate the best time to fil > read more

H1B visa stamping experience 2011 – Chennai, India – 221(g) – Query

Published on 2011-02-27 05:14:21

One of our blog readers, Vijay Vasu,   had an appointment for H1B visa stamping on February 11th, 2011 at Chennai  US consulate office, India.  He was gracious enough to take time and share his experience with us. Thank to Vijay for sharing his e > read more

How does Walk-ins vs. Scheduling working in US ? Call ahead, Appointment ?

Published on 2011-02-17 06:14:23

When I used to live in India, I never called anyone and scheduled appointments to meet them for getting stuff done like auto repair, car oil changes,  visiting doctor, haircut, looking at new apartment, travel guidance, meet insurance agent, dentist > read more

Required Info to fill DS-160 Form for US Visa stamping – 5 Tips

Published on 2011-02-16 08:17:32

I have filled quite a few forms related to various kinds of visa stamping over the years, but every time I try to fill one of them, there is some sort of frustration due to factors like searching for old info and session timing out, forcing me to re- > read more

News – USCIS – H1B visa 2011 Cap reached – January 26, 2011

Published on 2011-01-27 19:50:55

The long anticipation and  prediction is over folks…. USCIS did a press release earlier today that the H1B cap for fiscal year 2011 (H1B FY 2011) has reached. What it means is, they have received enough number of petitions to fill the cap of 6 > read more

Why NOT to park in Disabled parking without Handicap Tag even with broken leg ?

Published on 2011-01-26 23:28:05

I was talking to my friend yesterday about parking tickets in our area, as a segue he explained his experience dealing with disability parking, when he had an injury and was unable to walk without crutches. Let me share his experience and the key poi > read more

News : Tri-Valley State University raid by ICE – Scam impacts 1,555 Intl students

Published on 2011-01-26 00:50:31

There has been quite a bit of news coverage in the past one week about the scam related to Tri-Valley University, which is based out of Pleasanton in San Francisco Bay Area,  since ICE conducted a raid on its premises and at Ruby Hill on Jan 19th, 2 > read more

Jan 24th , 2011 H1B visa cap count – 2,100 filed. Only 1,750 visas left

Published on 2011-01-24 22:15:36

USCIS updated the H1B cap count numbers today morning. As of January 21st, 2011 the updated H1B petition filing numbers as reported by USCIS are : New 2,100 Cap eligible H1B visa petitions were filed under regular quota since January 14th, 2011 Janua > read more

Tips for Used/New Car maintenance- Goo gone ? Oil Change ? Music player

Published on 2011-01-21 18:02:32

I never had a car, when I was studying in India…After I graduated from MS and got my first job in US, l really wanted to buy a fancy new car… but unfortunately I could not,  my plans to study MBA killed my new car thought….Anyways, > read more

Why NOT to miss paying Tolls at Unattended toll booths in USA ?

Published on 2011-01-20 23:05:58

Paying tolls is something everyone are familiar with…it is no different in America, they also have unattended automatic tolls in US… If you live in an area with too many tolls, you may own one of these devices like EZ -Pass, I-Pass, etc t > read more

Jan 18th , 2011 H1B visa cap count – 2,000 petitions filed, 600 increase !

Published on 2011-01-19 01:25:01

USCIS updated the H1B cap count numbers today. As of January 14th, 2011 the updated H1B petition filing numbers as reported by USCIS are : New 2,000 Cap eligible H1B visa petitions were filed under regular quota since January 7th, 2011 January 14th , > read more

Missed Credit card Payment deadline- Charged Late Fee ? How to get Refund ?

Published on 2011-01-16 21:51:33

Credit card payments can be very tricky…you can end up paying lot of late fee, if you miss the actual deadline. I am not a big fan of auto payments for credit cards, so I have a reminder on my calendar to pay credit cards on a certain day of th > read more

Do B-Schools in USA accept 15 year Education for MBA ? List of Schools

Published on 2011-01-13 01:21:58

I have seen many students ask questions like I have BA / B.com from India, am I eligible for MBA in US ? Am I eligible for MBA in USA with 15 years of Education  ? Do all schools in US accept 15 year education ? Do US schools consider 3 year Bachelo > read more

New H1B visa Stamping Experience FY 2011 Quota – Chennai, India

Published on 2011-01-11 23:34:51

Naveen got his H1B visa stamping in late December after Holidays. He has articulated beautifully with every single detail in the whole process. Should be really helpful for anyone attending H1B visa stamping or any other visa stamping at Chennai, Ind > read more

Jan 10th , 2011 H1B visa cap count – 2900 petitions filed, 1000 increase !

Published on 2011-01-10 23:50:17

USCIS updated the H1B cap count numbers today. As of January 7th, 2011 the updated H1B petition filing numbers as reported by USCIS are : New 2,900 Cap eligible H1B visa petitions were filed under regular Quota since last week January 7th , 2011  US > read more

Jan 10th , 2011 H1B visa cap count – 1400 petitions filed !

Published on 2011-01-10 23:50:17

Updated : Previous content did not had one week data, current updates includes missing week data and correct updates. Thanks to Puneet ! USCIS updated the H1B cap count numbers today. As of January 7th, 2011 the updated H1B petition filing numbers as > read more

Flash News : Jan 3, 2011 Adv degree H1B quota Complete ! Cap Update, Analysis

Published on 2011-01-03 18:08:44

USCIS updated the H1B cap count numbers today around late evening. As of December 24th , 2010 the updated H1B petition filing numbers since last week are: New 1,900 Cap eligible H1B visa petitions were filed under regular Quota. New 300 cap eligible > read more

How to get Graduate Assistantship in First Semester – Student Experience, Tips

Published on 2011-01-03 00:02:21

By Guest Author Getting funding can be a big deal for international students as it helps them focus on education without any financial concerns.  Typically, you can get funding by proper planning in second semester, but if you are proactive, you mi > read more