4) H-1B Path (The Lottery You Must Win)
Execute lottery strategy (play to win)
Start preparing a full year before the April lottery. Your goal: maximize your wage level. A promotion from Level 1 to Level 2 doubles your lottery entries under the 2026 rules. Ask your employer about salary increases or title changes that could bump your wage level. Build your 'specialty occupation evidence bundle': detailed job descriptions, degree requirements, industry standards showing why this role needs your specific degree. With STEM OPT, you get up to 3 lottery attempts. Have backup plans ready: O-1 visa, new degree program, or employment with a cap-exempt organization.
Your DSO cannot give you CPT just because you said you have a job. You need a formal letter that includes:
- Official Letterhead with the employer’s name and physical address.
- Specific Dates: Exact start and end dates (CPT is authorized semester-by-semester).
- Hours per Week: Must explicitly state if it is part-time or full-time.
- Job Description: A brief list of duties that clearly relate to your major.
Free Resource: Template: Standard CPT Offer Letter Requirements
Resources
Record your progress
Mark this subsection complete to track your progress.