Historical second-round data, current selection numbers, what triggers another lottery, and your odds if it happens
Every H-1B lottery season, the same question dominates Reddit and immigration forums: will there be a second round? For FY2027, the question is particularly relevant because the new wage-weighted selection system changes the math entirely. With ~343,981 total registrations and a 35.3% initial selection rate, approximately 121,500 registrations were selected in the first round. But will enough selected beneficiaries fail to file petitions to trigger a second lottery?
Quick Answer: A second round H-1B lottery for FY2027 is possible but less likely than in previous years. The wage-weighted system selected more high-wage candidates who are more likely to actually file petitions (historically higher file-through rates). USCIS typically decides on a second round by July-August. If it happens, it would likely occur in July or August 2026 with reduced selection odds.
| Company | H-1B Filings | Typical File-Through Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | 55,150 | 95%+ — almost always files |
| Microsoft | 34,626 | 95%+ — almost always files |
| 33,416 | 95%+ — almost always files | |
| Infosys | 32,840 | 85-90% — some falloff |
| Tata Consultancy | 28,950 | 85-90% — some falloff |
| Cognizant | 26,700 | 85-90% — some falloff |
| Deloitte | 18,200 | 90%+ — high file-through |
| Apple | 15,800 | 95%+ — almost always files |
A second round lottery occurs when USCIS determines that the initial selection did not produce enough filed petitions to fill all 85,000 H-1B cap slots (65,000 regular + 20,000 master's exemption). Historically, USCIS over-selects in the first round to account for "fall-off" — registrations that are selected but where petitions are never filed due to job changes, withdrawn offers, duplicate registrations, or other reasons.
For FY2027, several factors affect second-round probability. The wage-weighted system now favors Level 3 and Level 4 candidates who have higher file-through rates — these are established professionals less likely to have withdrawn offers or duplicates. Conversely, the anti-fraud measures and $215 registration fee have already reduced total registrations by 27%, meaning less duplicate and speculative registration. Both factors suggest USCIS may have calibrated initial selection more accurately, reducing second-round likelihood.
Historical context: FY2026 had a second round in July 2025. FY2025 had multiple selection rounds. FY2024 had two additional rounds. However, those years had significantly higher registration volumes (470K+ for FY2025) and the old random lottery system, which produced more fall-off. FY2027's lower registration count and wage-weighted system make direct historical comparison unreliable. Current estimate: 30-40% chance of a second round, likely smaller in size if it occurs.
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Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →USCIS typically announces second-round selections in July or August. For FY2027, expect a decision by late July 2026. USCIS monitors how many filed petitions they receive from first-round selections, and if the numbers fall short of the 85,000 cap, they initiate additional selections. The announcement comes via the USCIS website and organizational account notifications.
Second-round odds are typically lower than first-round odds because the remaining pool is smaller and USCIS selects fewer registrations. For FY2027, if a second round occurs, estimated odds would be 5-15% depending on wage level. Level 3 and 4 candidates would still have higher odds due to the wage-weighted system, but absolute numbers would be small.
Make backup plans immediately. Do not wait for a second round that may never happen. Explore: (1) cap-exempt employers (universities, hospitals) that can sponsor year-round, (2) O-1 extraordinary ability visa if you qualify, (3) OPT/STEM OPT extension if you are on F-1 status, (4) employer transfer to a country with your company's international offices. Start these plans now while keeping the second-round possibility as a bonus.
Yes. In the old random lottery, second rounds drew from all remaining unselected registrations equally. Under the wage-weighted system, second-round selections would still prioritize higher wage levels. This means Level 4 candidates not selected in the first round would still have the highest second-round odds, while Level 1 candidates would remain disadvantaged.