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04 Sep 2007, 11:15
Hi. I know it's been awhile since the original poster started this thread, but I think responding will help generate additional discussion among fellow non-US citizen GMAT clubbers.
I have friends who attended Masters programs on a H1 Visa, all part time. If you want to attend full time, you may have to revert back to an F1-Visa status, which would mean quitting your job. But why would you? The H1B is the holy grail of visas for non-US citizens looking to work in the USA, because it puts you on the road to permanent residency (the coveted Green Card)...
If you go back to an F1 Visa to attend an MBA program, you'll get 1 year of Optional Practical Training after its done, and you'll have to find another company to sponsor you again...not an easy task, given the complexities and hulabaloo surrounding the US immigration system.
I don't see having the H1 as disadvantageous to obtaining an F1 Visa. Remember that the H1 is a dual-intent visa - meaning, it counts toward citizenship, but if you don't intend to stay, then it merely functions as an extended work permit. So I don't think you'll get dinged by the embassy officials if you state non-immigrant intent for the F1.