I am currently in my 3rd year of H1B and am planning on going back to school for a second Master's degree. I completed my first masters from the US and am aware that I will not get any more OPT at the same degree level . I believe my only option of working after my second master's is a direct H1B from F1. Is that correct ?

My question then is, if I get a job offer before I gradute how soon can i expect to recieve my H1B (assuming i wont be counted against the H1B cap the second time)so I may start working as soon as I graduate ?

I am also wondering how the transition from F1 to H1B happens in the absence of OPT. Is there any chance of my going out of status during this visa change?

thank you