The best way for this case is that find another job that will sponsor J1 also, then do J1 transfer. The total amount for J1 is three years, that's enough for waiver application.
He may also try to get F1. But in some cases, INS still ask for a waiver, which is impossible for him at this moment, before grant F1.
Don't try to be out of status, that will lead to three or ten years unadmittable bar.