My husband applied for change of status from H1B to F2 before his job contract expired. His application was denied because USCIS received a photocopy and not an original copy of I20 (which by the way is what we sent). My question is could he open a motion for reconsideration within the 33 days? If so, how long would it take? He also has another employer (university) ready to sponsor another H1B -- can they go ahead with H1B petition once he sends in a request for reconsideration? Should he at all request for reconsideration for F2 or go back to home country and apply for H1B? Thanks

You started on the wrong foot... at this point, filing an appeal or a new application, you'd be better off with an attorney.