महामानवता बोरो ले हँसाउँछन फेरि ।

1) How will he know the status of his Asylum application ?
- Its pending because he haven't had an interview.
2) Will it be renewed every year ?
- Yes until he receives a decision on his case. File i-765 with category c(8)
3) Can he go back to Nepal for a short visit while it is pending ?
- No, if he claimed he has threat in Nepal. He may apply for Advance Parole for humanitarian reasons to travel anywhere else but not Nepal. If he travels to Nepal, his asylum will likely be denied.

I heard some of lawyer charges 300 for 1 page EAD form. Thats ridiculous. All they have to do is put one code and few information.
He has to renew by himself every year. And yes there is huge fee for that. He can do it by himself.
No he can not go back to nepal even outside USA on pending asylum status. I hope this helps.

And again "one of my friends" story continues ...

EAD can be renewed easily. It should be straight forward if you follow the instructions from official website USCIS.gov.

This link might be helpful for your friend:
http://sajha.com/sajha/html/index.cfm?threadid=116314&noofposts=4

Sachhi out of status le pani Asylum file garna paucha hola ? Ma Nepal nagako 10 barsha vo. Asylum file garna milcha hola ?