J2 (no HRR) to F1 or H1B

[visit150]

Hi

I am on J2 (no 2 years residancy required) with a valid EAD. I am doing my MS, finished intial two semesters and expected date of graduation is May 2014. My J2 is valid until August 2015.

1. Is it worthy to switch to F1 now as I will be eligible for OPT after graduation or shall I switch directly to H1B as I am not involved in residancy requirement. In that case, will I eligible for USA foriegn graduates H1B quota? (though i am on J2)

2. Since my J2 is valid until August 2015, can I process my H1B petetion in April 2015? If it gets approved, how about the gap period between September 1 to Oct 1, 2015?

Please guide me.

Thanks.