学生专场怎么回事？

I want to apply H1 visa at Beijing on March 9th due to tight travel schedule. Called several times and was told yesterday that barcode holders can get March 6 and 7 and no barcode peple can get March 10th. Why did they leave March 8 and 9 in the middle? The operator told me the two dates are not open yet. Is it so called 学生专场 which is closed to H1 visa holders? Anyone has experience in it? BTW, how long does it take to get passport from the JianGuoMen postoffice? Can I get it Friday if I applied on Wednesday? Your input will be highly appreciated!