H-1B Weighted Selection: DHS Model Projections

Select the submitted OEWS wage level to see its entry count and DHS model projection.

Cap-gap extension

A selected registration alone does not create cap-gap. The automatic extension applies only when an eligible F-1 student's employer timely files a cap-subject H-1B petition requesting change of status before the applicable F-1/OPT period ends. When every condition is met, F-1 status and qualifying post-completion OPT or STEM OPT employment authorization can extend through April 1 of the relevant fiscal year or the requested H-1B validity start date, whichever is earlier, unless another regulatory termination event occurs. If the registration was not selected, cap-gap does not apply.

STEM OPT extension

A qualifying student may request up to 24 months of STEM OPT when the degree, school, employer, E-Verify, Form I-983, and prior-use rules are satisfied. USCIS may receive Form I-765 up to 90 days before the current post-completion OPT EAD expires, and the filing must also be within 60 days after the DSO enters the STEM recommendation. A timely, properly filed request can extend qualifying employment authorization for up to 180 days while pending.

O-1 visa

The O-1 is for individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in their field. It is not subject to the annual H-1B cap or lottery, but it has its own fairly high evidentiary bar: an employer or agent has to petition on your behalf and document the required criteria.

Day-1 CPT

Some schools offer Curricular Practical Training authorization starting on day one of a new academic program, letting a student work full-time right away. Treat this option with real caution: it has drawn heavy scrutiny from USCIS and immigration enforcement, and a poor choice of school or program can put your immigration status at risk. Research any school offering this thoroughly, and talk to an attorney, before enrolling.

Cap-exempt or concurrent H-1B employers

Universities, nonprofit entities affiliated with a university, and nonprofit or government research organizations can sponsor H-1B status without going through the annual lottery. Some people also hold a cap-exempt H-1B while working concurrently for a separate, cap-subject employer. Whether this fits your situation depends on the specific employer and role.

Consular processing if you are abroad

If you are outside the United States, or willing to be, some employers can pursue H-1B consular processing in a future registration cycle instead of a change of status filed from inside the US. This changes the timing pressure: you are not racing a domestic status expiration, but you do need a plan for the time before a visa is approved.

Re-register next cycle

The H-1B cap lottery runs every year. If you are not selected, you can register again in the next registration cycle. Nothing about this cycle's result carries over or counts against you.