USCIS: 35% beneficiaries are selected in H-1B lottery 2026 fy

The FY2026 H-1B lottery results are in, and this year brought a surprising twist: a much higher selection rate and a significant drop in total registrations. But what does this mean for you, especially if you weren’t selected in the first round? Let’s unpack what’s happening, why the H-1B lottery 2026 FY looks different, and how to plan smartly for what comes next.

A Big Shift in the H-1B Lottery Landscape

For FY2026, USCIS received 343,981 eligible H-1B lottery registrations and selected 120,141 unique beneficiaries. That’s a selection rate of roughly 35% — the highest since the electronic lottery system launched in 2020. This year, fewer duplicate applications and tighter fraud controls reshaped the system. In short: cleaner data, higher odds, and fewer loopholes.

What changed?

• Beneficiary-Centric Selection: Each applicant now only enters the lottery once, even if multiple companies register them.

• Fee Hike: The H-1B registration fee jumped from $10 to $215 per candidate, deterring speculative bulk filings.

• Employer Behavior: With big tech still recovering from 2024 layoffs, fewer companies submitted registrations.

• Legal Scrutiny: Lawsuits like the one against Meta have made companies more cautious in sponsoring H-1B candidates.

What If You Weren’t Selected? Will There Be a Second Round?

While a second H-1B lottery is possible, it's less likely this year. The higher accuracy of this year’s beneficiary-centric system means USCIS may need fewer rounds to fill the cap. If a second round does happen, expect updates around late July or early August.

Still, don’t just wait passively. Use this time to act strategically.

What You Can Do Now?

If you’re nearing the end of your OPT or STEM OPT, here are proactive steps to stay in status and continue working:

• Enroll in a Day 1 CPT Program: This lets you legally work while pursuing a new degree. It’s an ideal bridge strategy for those re-entering the H-1B lottery next year.

• Consider H-1B Cap-Exempt Jobs: Universities, nonprofits, and research institutions can sponsor H-1Bs outside the lottery.

• Explore Other Visas: If you're highly accomplished, the O-1 visa might be an option. If your employer has offices abroad, the L-1 route is worth exploring.

For STEM OPT Holders: Your Lottery Math Just Got Better

The Bigger Picture

The USCIS H-1B result for FY2026 reveals a shift toward a fairer, more enforceable system. That’s good news for genuine applicants. But it also means you can’t afford to coast. If you weren’t selected in this round, take action now to protect your future.

We recommend:

• Evaluating Day 1 CPT programs with accredited universities.

• Speaking with an immigration advisor to explore next steps.

• Updating your resume and exploring job boards that focus on cap-exempt or remote-friendly employers.

Conclusion: Be Ready, Be Strategic

This year’s H-1B lottery 2026 FY data shows the system is evolving. Selection rates may continue to improve, but only for those who stay informed and prepare for multiple outcomes.

Whether you're waiting for a second-round draw or planning your next degree, being proactive is your best bet.

Want help reviewing CPT programs or exploring backup plans? Reach out to us for a personalized consultation. We’ll help you map out a path forward—so you can stay, work, and thrive in the U.S.

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