F1 status will only be maintained when you have full time school or until OPT time. Changing to TPS Wont pause your F1 status I think. In his case let's say his OPT expires in March 2016 I don't know whether he can recapture it but according to USCIS website it says TPS does not prevent you applying for nonimmigrant status. h1b is dual intent status immigrant/ non immigrant. May be lawyers in this forum can help us .