prad0211

If the OP is eligible, moving to a dependent status wouldn't be a shady COS scenario.

If your H-1B petition is not selected in the lottery, you'll have 60 days from the end of your STEM OPT to either leave the country or change to a different status.

If your husband started his H1B in October, your F2 is not valid anymore as it would have gotten changed to a H4. Without a F1 or a H4 stamping, you wouldn't be able to enter the US once you exit.

Are you even allowed to pursue a Master's degree while on F-2?

If your petition gets selected in the lottery, assuming there will be a lottery, you will be on cap-gap till 09/30.

If you had used OPT earlier at the Master's level, how are you getting OPT again for your MBA?

Did you apply for 24 months extension or 17 months?

I am not sure about the I-20's from your undergrad program. When I applied for my OPT for my Master's degree, I had to submit my I-20 where my DSO had recommended for the OPT along with the check, photos, passport copies with I-94. I did not get my undergrad from US so your requirement might be different but since this is at a master's level, I believe the master's I-20 should still be enough. Hope this helps!

Just the OPT I-20 should work.

If the extension packet reaches USCIS before the current OPT ends, one can work till the case is adjudicated or for 90(?) days, whichever is earlier.

There is no grace period to apply STEM extension after your initial OPT expires. Your extension package should reach USCIS before your OPT expires.

I am currently working for Employer A on STEM extension. I got confirmation from our attorneys yesterday that my H1-B petition was selected in the lottery. I have a standing offer from Employer B who wants me to start in July. Assuming my H1-B petition gets approved, will I be able to switch employers in July and Employer B files for a H1-B transfer on the 1st of October? Thanks in advance for your response!

Cap gap comes into play, only if the H1-B petition is approved.

Cap-gap is applicable only if your petition gets selected in the lottery. To be on the safer side, apply for STEM extension if your degree is in the STEM field.

The change in the fees was not sudden. USCIS had published the revised fees at least 2 weeks before it became effective. You said you prepared your documents for your initial application on 12/24 when the new fees was already in effect. Your DSO should have guided you on the new fees or issued a new I-20 when you resubmitted your application with the corrected fees.