H1B Selection Rate Calculator 2025 Guide
Complete guide to using H1B calculators in 2025. Current FY2026 selection rate: 35%.
What is an H1B Selection Rate Calculator?
An H1B selection rate calculator is a tool that estimates your probability of being selected in the H1B lottery based on current statistics and proposed policy changes. With the FY2026 selection rate at 35%, these calculators help applicants understand their odds.
Current H1B Selection Rates (2025)
- FY2026 Overall Rate: 35% (highest since electronic registration)
- Bachelor's Degree: ~32% selection probability
- Master's Degree: ~45% selection probability (dual eligibility)
- Advanced Degree Cap: Additional 20,000 slots for US degrees
Types of H1B Calculators Available
1. Current Lottery Calculators
These calculators focus on the existing random selection system:
- Use historical selection rate data
- Factor in education level (bachelor's vs master's)
- Consider dual cap eligibility for advanced degrees
- Account for anti-fraud measure improvements
2. Proposed Wage-Based Calculators
These tools estimate priority under the proposed weighted selection system:
- Use Department of Labor OES wage data
- Calculate wage levels (I-IV) by occupation and location
- Estimate selection priority based on wage level
- Provide educational projections (not official)
How to Use H1B Calculators Effectively
Input Requirements
Most H1B calculators require the following information:
- Education Level: Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD
- Degree Source: US vs international institution
- Current/Offered Salary: Annual compensation
- Job Location: Metropolitan statistical area
- Occupation Code: SOC code for your position
Understanding Calculator Results
Calculator outputs typically include:
- Current Lottery Odds: Based on 35% FY2026 rate
- Wage Level Classification: Level I-IV under proposed system
- Estimated Priority: Selection likelihood under wage-based rule
- Comparative Analysis: Current vs proposed system odds
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Wage-based calculator results are educational estimates only. The proposed weighted selection rule is under OMB review and NOT finalized. No official parameters have been announced by USCIS. Always consult with an immigration attorney.
Best H1B Calculator Features to Look For
Data Accuracy
- Uses current DOL OES wage survey data
- Updated with latest USCIS selection statistics
- Incorporates recent policy changes
- Transparent about data sources and limitations
User Experience
- Simple, intuitive interface
- Mobile-responsive design
- Clear explanation of results
- Comprehensive legal disclaimers
Limitations of H1B Calculators
It's crucial to understand what H1B calculators cannot do:
- Cannot Predict Actual Selection: Lottery results are still uncertain
- Based on Proposed Rules: Wage-based system is not yet implemented
- Educational Purposes Only: Not official government tools
- No Legal Advice: Cannot replace professional immigration counsel
Strategies to Improve Your H1B Odds
Based on calculator insights, consider these strategies:
- Pursue US Advanced Degrees: Dual cap eligibility improves odds
- Negotiate Higher Salaries: Better positioning for wage-based future
- Choose Strategic Locations: Geographic wage variations matter
- Work with Experienced Sponsors: Employer expertise is crucial
Try Our Free H1B Calculator
Calculate your H1B selection odds under both current lottery and proposed wage-based systems.
Calculate Now