OPT to maintain F1 during AOS

[Sanjay777]

Dear Friends-

I am in F1 status and I have recently applied for AOS along with the EAD. I will be graduating this December, 2017. I want to continue my F1 status till AOS is completed. So my questions are:

1. Can I still apply for OPT card?

2. If not, what are my options to continue my F1 status [Except being a full time student as it is too late to apply for the spring 2018 semester]?

Any help and suggestion is very appreciated. Lots of thanks in advance.
Sanjay!

[Tylveng]

Why would you need the OPT when you already applied for (and will most likely get) the EAD?

[Sanjay777]

Why would you need the OPT when you already applied for (and will most likely get) the EAD?

The only reason I am thinking to apply is 'It is recommended on the multiple websites' to continue the non-immigrant status to be on safe side until AOS decision is made.
Please advise if you think differently. Really Appreciated!
Sanjay!