Guidance for F-1 OPT graduates seeking H-1B sponsorship in the Chicago area.
For F-1 OPT graduates aiming for H-1B sponsorship in Chicago, understanding the process and opportunities is vital. Get Wisa provides data-driven insights into companies that sponsor, the FY2027 lottery odds, and how to navigate the transition effectively.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Overall) | 35.3% | ↓ 10.7% |
| F-1 OPT Change of Status Fee | EXEMPT from $100K fee | No Change |
| Top H-1B Filing Companies (Overall) | Amazon: 55,150 | ↑ 8% |
| Top H-1B Filing Companies (Overall) | Microsoft: 34,626 | ↑ 6% |
| Top H-1B Filing Companies (Overall) | Google: 33,416 | ↑ 7% |
| Verified Sponsors in Wisa Database | 45,000+ | ↑ 10% |
Our analysis of DOL data shows that while the overall H-1B lottery odds for Chicago remain at 35.3%, the exemption from the $100K fee for F-1 OPT Change of Status applications is a significant financial advantage for graduates transitioning within the U.S.
Ensure your employer files your H-1B petition as a Change of Status if you are already in the U.S. on F-1 OPT. This avoids consular processing and the $100K fee, simplifying the transition.
For F-1 OPT graduates aiming for H-1B sponsorship in Chicago, the FY2027 lottery presents a 35.3% overall selection chance. A key advantage is the exemption from the $100K fee when filing for a Change of Status while remaining in the U.S. This significantly reduces the financial burden for many.
Top-tier companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google consistently sponsor H-1B visas, offering numerous opportunities in Chicago. With over 45,000 verified sponsors in the Get Wisa database, finding potential employers is more accessible than ever.
Based on DOL data, here are examples of major companies that frequently sponsor H-1B visas, offering opportunities for F-1 OPT graduates:
Yes, F-1 OPT graduates can secure H-1B sponsorship in Chicago. Many companies actively sponsor, and filing as a Change of Status avoids consular processing.
No, F-1 OPT graduates filing for a Change of Status to H-1B while in the U.S. are exempt from the $100K fee.
The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery are 35.3%. This applies to all applicants, including those in Chicago.
Utilize resources like Get Wisa to search over 45,000 verified sponsors. Analyzing DOL data helps identify companies with a history of sponsoring roles relevant to your field.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →Yes, F-1 OPT graduates can secure H-1B sponsorship in Chicago. Many companies actively sponsor, and filing as a Change of Status avoids consular processing.
No, F-1 OPT graduates filing for a Change of Status to H-1B while in the U.S. are exempt from the $100K fee.
The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery are 35.3%. This applies to all applicants, including those in Chicago.
Utilize resources like Get Wisa to search over 45,000 verified sponsors. Analyzing DOL data helps identify companies with a history of sponsoring roles relevant to your field.