How wage levels influence your H-1B COS selection odds.
The H-1B wage-weighted lottery system, fully implemented for 2026, significantly impacts selection odds. This page analyzes how wage levels affect Change of Status (COS) applicants and provides data-driven insights for those seeking H-1B status via COS.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Overall) | 35.3% | ↓ 27% vs FY2026 |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 1) | ~15% | N/A |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 2) | ~31% | N/A |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 3) | ~46% | N/A |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 4) | ~62% | N/A |
| New Form I-129 | Mandatory April 2026 | New Requirement |
Our analysis of DOL wage data indicates that employers offering salaries at Level 3 or Level 4 for H-1B COS applications in 2026 are seeing significantly higher selection rates in the lottery compared to those offering Level 1 or Level 2 wages.
When negotiating an offer for an H-1B COS, understand the prevailing wage for your role and location. Aiming for a salary that falls into Level 3 or Level 4 can dramatically improve your chances of selection in the 2026 wage-weighted lottery.
The H-1B wage-weighted lottery system, fully implemented for 2026, prioritizes higher wage offerings. For Change of Status (COS) applicants, this means that securing a position with a salary corresponding to DOL Wage Level 3 or Level 4 can substantially increase their odds of selection. For instance, Level 4 positions had approximately 62% odds in the FY2027 lottery, compared to only ~15% for Level 1.
This shift incentivizes employers to offer competitive salaries and encourages applicants to seek roles that align with higher wage levels. The introduction of the new Form I-129 in April 2026 does not alter this fundamental aspect of the lottery. Get Wisa's data on historical wage data and sponsorship can help applicants identify companies that offer competitive salaries and have a strong track record of H-1B COS success.
Companies known for offering competitive salaries that align with higher wage levels in the H-1B lottery include:
Q: How does the H-1B wage-weighted lottery affect Change of Status applicants?
A: It significantly increases selection odds for COS applicants who are offered higher salaries, particularly those falling into DOL Wage Levels 3 and 4.
Q: What are the odds for Level 4 H-1B wage offers in the 2026 lottery?
A: For FY2027, Level 4 wage offers had approximately 62% selection odds, demonstrating a strong advantage for higher-paid positions.
Q: Should I negotiate for a higher salary for my H-1B COS application?
A: Yes, negotiating for a salary that aligns with Level 3 or Level 4 is highly recommended to improve your H-1B COS lottery selection chances.
Q: Does the new Form I-129 impact wage-weighted lottery odds for COS?
A: No, the new Form I-129 affects the filing process but not the underlying wage-weighted lottery system itself. Higher wages still correlate with better odds.
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Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →It significantly increases selection odds for COS applicants who are offered higher salaries, particularly those falling into DOL Wage Levels 3 and 4.
For FY2027, Level 4 wage offers had approximately 62% selection odds, demonstrating a strong advantage for higher-paid positions.
Yes, negotiating for a salary that aligns with Level 3 or Level 4 is highly recommended to improve your H-1B COS lottery selection chances.
No, the new Form I-129 affects the filing process but not the underlying wage-weighted lottery system itself. Higher wages still correlate with better odds.