Thank you @ SlowlybtSurely.
I did and just got a response. The drop box option is by case to case basis, that's what their service desk said. The answers to the scheduling questions determines if one would qualify for drop box or if one goes for an interview.
That's the reply I got from the Consulate this morning.
Thank you again.

Good day house.
It's my first time on Nairaland so please forgive any mistakes made or procedure not followed. I apologize in advance. I will like to make an inquiry about my visa renewal. I am currently on an F1 student visa to the United states. This visa expires in August 2017. Unfortunately, I won't be able to make a trip back in August because a new semester would be starting (Fall 2017). But I can make a trip to Nigeria earlier than August, sometime in May.

My inquiry is can I apply for a renewal of my visa 3 months prior to its expiry date? This is because it be more difficult to find the time to make a trip once the semester begins in August 2017. My second question is would I have to interview for the renewal or do I get the drop box option?

Thank you for your anticipated response.