About visa status

Dear Sir, This question is for one of my close friends who has recently undergone change in visa status. She was initially in tourist visa but has recently filed an asylum application due to adverse circumstances at home. The process of asylum approval may take a few months or even a couple of years.During this time he will get an employment authorization document but won't have a definite status.Under such status, can he apply for residency positions in USA? How favourably do the programs look upon such a status? waiting for your reply. Thanks so much.