would have been 10 years in 6 months
Fresh of the boat

5 years as Student Visa (In 2006 major family issues (Illness and finances), had me home for ~8 months before I could finish my MSC)
Back in Jul 07 Re done my MSC and completed.
Working in the UK
Change to IGS (Intl Grad Scheme) for 1 year then to PSW (Post study work) for another
Now on HSMP for another 3 years till 2012.
Been paying heavy taxes and NI for the working period, surely I've paid my dues. Any how, would I be refused if I apply on Jan 2011, even with extenuating circumstances? Is this a no hoper of an application?
Part that sucks the most is I've been working for 3 years but stupid Home office thinks IGS and PSW are not worthy work permits so technically, I have to wait another 4 yrs till I can apply via work permit route majorly sucks. Despite paying taxes for that period that is so, so, unfair.
So, should I stay depressed about this for the next 4 years or flip the coin on 10 year ILR. Please suggestion and advise can I have it please?
Oh, I forgot Tories are in charge now, so, doubly in trouble for the next 4 maybe 8years.
(I don't mind losing £1,000, it will hurt but I think at least am thinking chance it before the Tories make it twice as hard.)