Hi Mom,
I have a few questions and apologize if I missed these in the spreadsheet.
Some personal background:
Currently on F1 with expiration date in OCT2026, I20 end date is AUG 2028, and I'm expecting to graduate either MAY or AUG of 2025.
1. I see in the AOS process that that "Don't rush to do DV payment if you have a high CN number". Is there a range/idea of what number is considered high? My CN is around SA2200, and historically I see that it becomes current around April/May. Would this be considered too high?
2. I read through and had some questions about DS-260. I see one benefit about submitting is that KCC will not send you reminder email as they understand your processing option. Does that mean paying DV fee will serve the same purpose of letting them know (benefit 1 and 2 listed in the spreadsheet)? If so, is submitting DV payment enough as Marriage doesn't apply to me and I'm not likely switching to CP. Or am I missing any obvious benefits that's not mentioned on the spreadsheet? (Except benefit 5 relataed to 2NL)
3. About benefit 5 of 2NL, I know it's typically triggered by DS260 submission and sometimes (not guaranteed) by DV payment. I want to confirm that if the answer of first question is no (my number is not high and I should start preparing for it), submitting DS 260 has no downside as DV payment shows intent to immigrate anyway?
4. I see that some interviews date for April current CN are in late August/September/October. I know legal status doesn't matter much if it's received but would you recommend me to 1. Graduate May/Aug as planned (and apply OPT early so I remain lawful status from May/Aug to Oct); 2. Delay graduation to December 2026;
Thank you!