University of California, Los Angeles H-1B Sponsorship Guide (2026)
UCLA is a top public research university in Los Angeles and a major cap-exempt H-1B sponsor, with particular strength in biomedical, CS, and engineering research.
Top Departments Sponsoring H-1B
Top Affiliated H-1B Employers
Frequently Asked Questions
Does UCLA sponsor H-1B?
Yes. UCLA sponsors H-1B for faculty, researchers, and certain professional staff through the Dashew Center for International Students and Scholars. As a UC system campus, UCLA is cap-exempt.
What is the prevailing wage for H-1B at UCLA?
UCLA's median LCA wage is approximately $95,000. California prevailing wages are among the highest for public universities. CS and engineering faculty command $140,000-$210,000+. Medical faculty at Geffen School of Medicine file at $180,000-$300,000+.
Does UCLA Health sponsor H-1B for physicians?
Yes. UCLA Health is a major H-1B sponsor for physicians and clinical researchers. Physician H-1B petitions at UCLA typically use the cap-exempt pathway and involve the J-1 waiver process for those coming off J-1 exchange visitor status.
Can UCLA sponsor OPT students for H-1B?
UCLA can sponsor H-1B only for its own employees. OPT students working at other employers need sponsorship from those employers. UCLA does not sponsor H-1B for alumni or off-campus OPT workers.