Vermont : H4 extension standalone delays. Please help

[ESP01]

Just want to estimate the H4 extension time delays at Vermont service center.

H4 extension standalone : I have applied my h4 extension and H4 EAD extension, on Apr 29 2018, with my husband's H1B extension pending receipt.

My husbands H1B is approved 2 months ago (in July 2018), but my H4 petition is still in pending status for past 5months.

Q1. Is it true that the current processing time at Vermont for H4 Extension is 12 months?
Q2. Anyone in same boat as me, got their H4 extension approved? And whats the processing time?
Q3. If the processing time is 12months, can I go to USA embassy in India and get my H4 extension stamped directly by scheduling appointment?
- Q3.1. If I can go to USA embassy and get it stamped, should I pull off my I-539 petition? And what happens to my H4 EAD petition?
Q4. Any suggestions what the best thing to do in my situation?
Q5. If I wanted to pursue Masters degree what should I do?

I lost my job as my work permit expired, just trying to understand how bad the delays are and trying to prepare myself for current situation.