How the FY2027 H-1B Wage-Weighted Selection Works
For FY2027, H-1B selection is modeled as wage-weighted by equivalent OEWS wage level. A registration is entered into the selection pool according to that level:
- Wage Level I receives 1 weighted entry
- Wage Level II receives 2 weighted entries
- Wage Level III receives 3 weighted entries
- Wage Level IV receives 4 weighted entries
Higher weighting improves the modeled selection probability. It does not guarantee that any beneficiary will be selected. Actual outcomes depend on the actual registration and beneficiary population and the selection process.
DHS modeled selection estimates by wage level
| Wage Level | Weighted Entries | DHS Modeled Selection Estimate | Difference from DHS Modeled Random Baseline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level I | 1× | 15.29% | −14.30 percentage points |
| Level II | 2× | 30.58% | +0.99 percentage points |
| Level III | 3× | 45.87% | +16.28 percentage points |
| Level IV | 4× | 61.16% | +31.57 percentage points |
DHS modeled random-selection baseline: 29.59%. These values are DHS modeled estimates based on the modeling assumptions in the applicable weighted-selection analysis. They are not guaranteed individual odds. IMMIFIN is not DHS, USCIS, or DOL.
Does a U.S. Master's Degree Affect H-1B Selection?
A qualifying U.S. master's degree or higher may make a beneficiary eligible for the advanced-degree exemption and an additional selection opportunity. IMMIFIN does not add a made-up percentage to the DHS wage-level modeled estimate because DHS does not publish a separate wage-level-specific combined percentage that IMMIFIN can reliably present.
Don't know your H-1B wage level? Use IMMIFIN's H-1B Wage Level Estimator to estimate Level I, II, III, or IV from an official occupation, worksite ZIP, and salary.
H-1B Lottery Odds FAQ
How does the H-1B lottery work for FY2027?
FY2027 H-1B selection is modeled as wage-weighted. Beneficiaries are entered according to wage level (1× through 4×) rather than as a single equal draw. IMMIFIN shows DHS modeled selection estimates for that method. It does not predict whether any specific registration will be selected.
Does wage level affect H-1B selection?
Yes. In the wage-weighted model, a higher equivalent wage level receives more entries in the selection pool. That increases the modeled probability compared with a lower wage level. It still does not guarantee selection.
What are the modeled H-1B selection estimates for Wage Levels I, II, III and IV?
The DHS modeled estimates used by this calculator are Level I 15.29%, Level II 30.58%, Level III 45.87%, and Level IV 61.16%. The DHS modeled random-selection baseline is 29.59%.
Does a U.S. master's degree improve H-1B selection chances?
A qualifying U.S. master's degree or higher may provide an additional selection opportunity through the advanced-degree exemption. IMMIFIN does not invent a combined Level × master's percentage or add a numerical boost to the wage-level estimate.
How do I find my H-1B wage level?
Estimate your likely wage level with the H-1B Wage Level Estimator. That tool can send the estimated level to this calculator.