An in-depth look at the competitive landscape for entry-level H-1B positions based on FY2027 lottery data.
For international professionals targeting entry-level roles, understanding the H-1B lottery selection odds for 2026 is crucial. Get Wisa provides a data-driven analysis of the FY2027 lottery results, breaking down the probabilities for candidates seeking these positions.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Overall) | 35.3% | ↓ 27% |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 1) | ~15% | ↓ 20% |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 2) | ~31% | ↓ 18% |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 3) | ~46% | ↓ 15% |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 4) | ~62% | ↓ 12% |
| Top H-1B Filer (Amazon) | 55,150 | ↑ 5% |
| Top H-1B Filer (Microsoft) | 34,626 | ↑ 6% |
Our analysis of the FY2027 H-1B lottery data reveals a significant disparity in selection odds based on wage levels. Entry-level positions (Level 1) had substantially lower odds (~15%) compared to higher-level roles (Level 4 at ~62%), indicating a strategic advantage for candidates targeting positions with higher prevailing wages.
While entry-level roles are competitive, focus on securing positions with companies that offer wages aligning with Level 2 or higher. This strategic approach can significantly improve your H-1B lottery selection odds. Use Get Wisa to research companies and their typical wage offerings for similar roles.
The H-1B lottery for FY2027 presented a challenging environment for entry-level roles, with overall selection odds dropping to 35.3%. The data clearly shows that candidates targeting positions with lower prevailing wages (Level 1) faced the steepest odds, around 15%. This trend highlights the increasing importance of wage levels in the H-1B selection process.
Conversely, roles with higher wage classifications (Level 3 and 4) saw considerably better selection odds, reaching approximately 46% and 62%, respectively. This suggests that companies offering more competitive salaries for specialized positions have a higher likelihood of successfully sponsoring H-1B visas. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for candidates and employers navigating the 2026 H-1B season.
The following companies are among the top H-1B filers, indicating their significant role in the lottery process, including for entry-level positions:
Q: What were the overall H-1B lottery odds for FY2027?
A: The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were 35.3%, a decrease from the previous year.
Q: How did wage levels impact H-1B lottery odds for entry-level roles in 2026?
A: Entry-level roles (Level 1 wages) had significantly lower odds, around 15%, compared to higher wage levels like Level 4, which had ~62% odds.
Q: Does the new Form I-129 affect H-1B lottery selection odds?
A: The new Form I-129, mandatory April 2026, pertains to the application process and fees, not the lottery selection mechanism itself, which is based on random selection.
Q: Where can I find reliable data on H-1B sponsorship for entry-level positions?
A: Get Wisa provides a comprehensive database of H-1B filing records, allowing you to research companies and their sponsorship patterns for specific roles and experience levels.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were 35.3%, a decrease from the previous year.
Entry-level roles (Level 1 wages) had significantly lower odds, around 15%, compared to higher wage levels like Level 4, which had ~62% odds.
The new Form I-129, mandatory April 2026, pertains to the application process and fees, not the lottery selection mechanism itself, which is based on random selection.
Get Wisa provides a comprehensive database of H-1B filing records, allowing you to research companies and their sponsorship patterns for specific roles and experience levels.