COGNIZANT H-1B Visa Sponsorship & Salary Data
COGNIZANT has filed 92,174 H-1B labor condition applications from FY 2020 to FY 2026, with 91,032 certified. The median H-1B salary at COGNIZANT is $93,912, which is 22% lower than the national H-1B median of $120,000.
Salary Analysis
Salary Range
- 10th percentile: $73,944
- 25th percentile: $81,453
- Median: $93,912
- 75th percentile: $109,886
- 90th percentile: $125,424
Wage Level Distribution
- Level I (Entry): 446 (0%)
- Level II (Qualified): 38,937 (43%)
- Level III (Experienced): 39,608 (44%)
- Level IV (Expert): 11,565 (13%)
Trend (2020-2026)
- Starting median: $86,778
- Current median: $114,795
- Growth: +32%
Salary & Hiring Visualizations
Salary Distribution
Distribution of H-1B salaries at COGNIZANT
COGNIZANT's H-1B salaries range from $73,944 to $125,424 (10th-90th percentile), with a median of $93,912. This is comparable to the national H-1B median.
Wage Level Distribution
DOL wage levels affect H-1B lottery priority
COGNIZANT files 100% of H-1B positions at Level II or higher. Higher wage levels receive priority in the H-1B lottery, giving COGNIZANT candidates a competitive advantage.
Median Salary Trend
Year-over-year salary changes
COGNIZANT's median H-1B salary increased by +32% from FY 2020 ($86,778) to FY 2026 ($114,795). This strong growth reflects competitive compensation adjustments.
H-1B Filings by Year
Annual hiring activity through H-1B program
COGNIZANT's H-1B filings changed by -95% from FY 2020 to FY 2026. This may reflect changes in hiring strategy or workforce composition.
Salary by Job Title
Top roles by filing volume, showing salary distribution
The highest-volume H-1B role at COGNIZANT is Manager with 22,313 filings at $98,114 median salary.
Salary by Location
Salary distribution across office locations (sorted by median)
COGNIZANT's largest H-1B hub is Plano, TX with 4,969 filings. The highest-paying location is New York, NY at $103,730 median.
Highest Paying H-1B Roles at COGNIZANT
Ranked by median salary — Unlike "Salary by Job Title" above which shows the most common roles by filing volume, this section ranks all H-1B positions by their median compensation to highlight the best-paying opportunities.
These are the top 10 highest-paying H-1B job titles at COGNIZANT, ranked by median salary. The highest-paying role is Senior Manager at $115,440 median, which is 23% above the company's overall H-1B median of $93,912.
High-paying H-1B roles typically require advanced technical expertise, specialized domain knowledge, or significant leadership responsibility. Factors influencing top-tier compensation include years of experience, educational credentials (PhD, Master's degrees), rare skill combinations, and market demand for specific technologies. The salary distribution chart below each role shows how compensation varies—wider distributions indicate more salary negotiation flexibility, while narrow peaks suggest standardized pay bands. Senior and principal-level positions consistently command premium salaries due to their strategic impact and scarcity of qualified candidates.
Senior Manager
4,387 H-1B filings at COGNIZANT
Manager - Computer Systems Engineers/Architects
10,633 H-1B filings at COGNIZANT
Manager
22,313 H-1B filings at COGNIZANT
Senior Systems Analyst
19,517 H-1B filings at COGNIZANT
Senior Associate -Computer Systems Engineers/Architects
6,316 H-1B filings at COGNIZANT
Systems Analyst
4,584 H-1B filings at COGNIZANT
Salary data based on 91,032 certified H-1B labor condition applications at COGNIZANT. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, specific role requirements, and location within the company.
Highest Individual H-1B Salaries at COGNIZANT
Actual filed salaries — These are the 10 highest individual H-1B salary filings at COGNIZANT, representing specific positions (not aggregated medians). These may include executive, highly specialized, or senior leadership roles.
The highest H-1B salary filed at COGNIZANT was $922,272 for a Senior Associate - Computer Systems Engineers position in Plano, TX (FY2022). This is 882% higher than the company's median H-1B salary.
Top H-1B salaries often cluster in high cost-of-living metros like San Francisco, New York, and Seattle where prevailing wages are higher. However, executive and specialized roles can command premium compensation regardless of location. These filings represent the upper bound of H-1B compensation at COGNIZANT—actual total compensation may be significantly higher when including stock grants, bonuses, and benefits. Geographic patterns in top salaries often reflect where companies locate their most senior technical talent and leadership positions.
Marker size indicates salary level. Click markers for details.
| Rank | Job Title | Location | Salary | Level | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Senior Associate - Computer Systems Engineers | Plano, TX | $922,272 | II | FY 2022 |
| 2 | Senior Associate - Computer Systems Engineers | Plano, TX | $922,272 | II | FY 2022 |
| 3 | Senior Systems Analyst | Bentonville, AR | $600,000 | II | FY 2020 |
| 4 | Senior Manager - Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | Superior, CO | $303,992 | IV | FY 2025 |
| 5 | Director - Information Technology Project Managers | Charlotte, NC | $290,000 | IV | FY 2022 |
| 6 | Director - Information Technology Project Managers | Fort Mill, SC | $290,000 | IV | FY 2022 |
| 7 | Senior Manager - Software Developers | Santa Clara, CA | $283,442 | IV | FY 2024 |
| 8 | Senior Director - Sales Engineers | Crystal Lake, IL | $265,000 | IV | FY 2024 |
| 9 | Director - Information Technology Project Managers | Tempe, AZ | $265,000 | IV | FY 2025 |
| 10 | Director - Information Technology Project Managers | Pleasanton, CA | $265,000 | IV | FY 2025 |
These represent the highest individual salary amounts filed in H-1B labor condition applications. Note: H-1B salary data reflects base compensation only and does not include stock options, RSUs, bonuses, or other benefits which can significantly increase total compensation at tech companies.
Detailed Breakdown
H-1B Job Titles at COGNIZANT
| Job Title | Filings | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Manager | 22,313 | $98,114 |
| Senior Systems Analyst | 19,517 | $80,850 |
| Manager - Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | 10,633 | $104,520 |
| Senior Associate -Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | 6,316 | $80,122 |
| Systems Analyst | 4,584 | $79,810 |
| Senior Manager | 4,387 | $115,440 |
H-1B Locations for COGNIZANT
| Location | Filings | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Plano, TX | 4,969 | $94,432 |
| Charlotte, NC | 2,907 | $96,158 |
| Hartford, CT | 2,746 | $87,776 |
| Irving, TX | 2,242 | $95,285 |
| New York, NY | 1,601 | $103,730 |
| Chicago, IL | 1,521 | $89,981 |
| Phoenix, AZ | 1,513 | $89,981 |
| Atlanta, GA | 1,435 | $91,686 |
| Bentonville, AR | 1,162 | $67,891 |
| Jersey City, NJ | 1,098 | $103,730 |
Recent H-1B Filings at COGNIZANT
Sample of 20 recent certified H-1B labor condition applications. This represents a small fraction of COGNIZANT's 91,032 total certified filings.
| Job Title | Location | Salary | Level | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sa - Software Quality Assurance Analysts And Testers | Herndon, VA | $106,454 | II | FY 2026 |
| Sa - Software Quality Assurance Analysts And Testers | Ellisville, MO | $69,534 | II | FY 2026 |
| Senior Associate -Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | Windsor, CT | $81,765 | II | FY 2026 |
| Associate Director - Management Analysts | Surprise, AZ | $154,565 | IV | FY 2026 |
| Senior Associate -Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | Mesa, AZ | $93,538 | II | FY 2026 |
| Senior Associate -Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | Saint Paul, MN | $90,210 | II | FY 2026 |
| Sr. Mgr. - Information Technology Project Managers | Trumbull, CT | $114,712 | IV | FY 2026 |
| Senior Associate -Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | Eden Prairie, MN | $90,210 | II | FY 2026 |
| Sa - Software Quality Assurance Analysts And Testers | Mclean, VA | $106,454 | II | FY 2026 |
| Manager - Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | Plano, TX | $118,456 | III | FY 2026 |
| Senior Associate - Software Developers | Palm Beach Gardens, FL | $110,947 | II | FY 2026 |
| Sr Mgr -Software Quality Assurance Analysts And Testers | Lathrop, CA | $119,954 | IV | FY 2026 |
| Sr Mgr -Software Quality Assurance Analysts And Testers | Santa Clara, CA | $201,053 | IV | FY 2026 |
| Senior Manager - Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | Concord, NC | $140,795 | IV | FY 2026 |
| Senior Associate - Software Developers | Palm Beach Gardens, FL | $110,947 | II | FY 2026 |
| Manager - Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | Prosper, TX | $118,456 | III | FY 2026 |
| Senior Associate -Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | Hartford, CT | $81,765 | II | FY 2026 |
| Sr. Mgr. - Information Technology Project Managers | Stamford, CT | $114,712 | IV | FY 2026 |
| Manager - Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | Edison, NJ | $126,818 | III | FY 2026 |
| Senior Manager - Software Developers | Littleton, MA | $178,131 | IV | FY 2026 |
Data source: U.S. Department of Labor LCA Disclosure Files. Showing most recent certified filings.
Frequently Asked Questions about COGNIZANT H-1B Visas
What is the average H-1B salary at COGNIZANT?
The median H-1B salary at COGNIZANT is $93,912, based on 91,032 certified filings from FY 2020 to FY 2026. This is 22% lower than the national H-1B median salary of $120,000. Compensation at COGNIZANT reflects their market positioning, with entry-level roles starting around $81,453 and senior positions reaching $125,424 or higher. These figures represent base salaries in LCA filings and may not include bonuses, equity grants, or other compensation common at large employers.
Salaries at COGNIZANT range from $73,944 at the 10th percentile to $125,424 at the 90th percentile, showing a $51,480 spread across experience levels and roles. The 25th percentile is $81,453 and the 75th percentile is $109,886.
Does COGNIZANT sponsor H-1B visas?
Yes, COGNIZANT actively sponsors H-1B visas and has been a consistent participant in the H-1B program. They have filed 92,174 H-1B labor condition applications from FY 2020 to FY 2026, demonstrating ongoing commitment to hiring international talent. With 91,032 certified applications and a 0% denial rate, COGNIZANT maintains a strong track record for H-1B sponsorship. The company sponsors positions across multiple job categories and locations, making them a viable option for professionals seeking H-1B visa sponsorship.
In the most recent fiscal year (FY 2026), COGNIZANT filed 1,383 H-1B applications, with 1,383 certified and 0 denied. Over 7 years of data, COGNIZANT has consistently demonstrated commitment to H-1B sponsorship.
Note: These are Labor Condition Applications (LCAs) filed with the Department of Labor, which is a prerequisite for H-1B petitions. The actual number of H-1B petitions filed with USCIS may differ.
What is COGNIZANT's H-1B approval rate?
COGNIZANT's LCA (Labor Condition Application) denial rate is 0%, with 2 out of 92,174 applications denied across all years. This translates to a 100.0% certification rate, which indicates how successfully the company prepares and files H-1B applications. A lower denial rate suggests better compliance with Department of Labor requirements, proper wage documentation, and accurate job classification. Prospective H-1B applicants should consider this approval rate alongside other factors like salary, job role, and location when evaluating COGNIZANT as a potential H-1B sponsor.
This is an excellent approval rate, indicating COGNIZANT has strong H-1B sponsorship practices and typically meets DOL requirements. Applicants can feel confident in the company's H-1B track record.
What jobs does COGNIZANT sponsor for H-1B?
COGNIZANT sponsors H-1B visas for various specialty occupation positions requiring at least a bachelor's degree. Based on 91,032 certified filings, the most commonly sponsored job titles reflect the company's primary business functions and talent needs. These positions typically require specialized knowledge in fields like technology, engineering, finance, or scientific research. Understanding which roles COGNIZANT most frequently sponsors can help job seekers target their applications effectively.
Most common H-1B job titles at COGNIZANT:
The most frequently sponsored role is Manager with 22,313 filings at a median salary of $98,114. This is followed by Senior Systems Analyst (19,517 filings) and Manager - Computer Systems Engineers/Architects.
Where are COGNIZANT's H-1B jobs located?
COGNIZANT's H-1B positions are distributed across multiple U.S. locations, with concentration in major metropolitan areas and tech hubs. Geographic distribution often reflects company office locations, client sites, and regional market demands. Location significantly impacts H-1B salary due to varying cost of living and local wage requirements. Understanding where COGNIZANT sponsors H-1B workers can help candidates target specific offices and negotiate appropriate compensation for each market.
Top COGNIZANT H-1B locations:
Circle size indicates relative H-1B filing volume
The largest H-1B hub for COGNIZANT is Plano, TX with 4,969 filings at a median salary of $94,432. The highest-paying location is New York, NY at $103,730 median. Salaries range from $67,891 to $103,730 across office locations.
How have COGNIZANT's H-1B salaries changed over time?
COGNIZANT's median H-1B salary has increased by +32% from FY 2020 ($86,778) to FY 2026 ($114,795). Tracking salary trends over time reveals how COGNIZANT adjusts compensation to remain competitive in the H-1B labor market. Salary growth typically reflects inflation adjustments, increased demand for specialized skills, and evolving prevailing wage requirements. These historical trends can help applicants understand future salary expectations and negotiate appropriately when considering H-1B opportunities at COGNIZANT.
Year-by-year breakdown:
- FY 2022: $94,723 (13,395 certified)
- FY 2023: $101,358 (12,952 certified)
- FY 2024: $100,090 (11,217 certified)
- FY 2025: $109,782 (11,069 certified)
- FY 2026: $114,795 (1,383 certified)
This 32% growth reflects strong compensation adjustments at COGNIZANT, keeping pace with market demands for H-1B talent.
What wage level does COGNIZANT use for H-1B?
COGNIZANT primarily files H-1B applications at Wage Level III, accounting for 44% of their filings. DOL wage levels range from Level I (entry-level, 17th percentile of local wages) to Level IV (expert, 67th percentile). Wage level determines both salary requirements and, under recent H-1B rules, lottery selection priority. Higher wage levels receive preference in the H-1B lottery, making COGNIZANT's wage level distribution an important factor for prospective applicants assessing their chances of H-1B selection.
With 100% of positions at Level II or higher, COGNIZANT typically offers competitive wages above entry-level. Higher wage levels receive priority in the H-1B lottery.
How does COGNIZANT's H-1B salary compare to other employers?
COGNIZANT's median H-1B salary of $93,912 is 22% lower than the national H-1B median of $120,000 across all employers and industries. This comparison provides context for evaluating COGNIZANT's competitiveness in attracting H-1B talent. Keep in mind that industry, location, and job function significantly impact salary levels. Tech companies and financial institutions typically offer higher H-1B salaries than other sectors, while salaries in major metros like San Francisco and New York exceed those in smaller markets. Compare COGNIZANT's offerings with similar companies in your field for a more accurate assessment.
COGNIZANT's H-1B salaries are below the national median, though this may vary significantly by role, experience level, and location. Consider researching specific positions for more accurate compensation expectations.
How do new H-1B fees and rules affect COGNIZANT's sponsorship?
Recent H-1B rule changes have increased filing fees and introduced wage-level prioritization in the lottery. COGNIZANT's higher proportion of Level III-IV positions (57%) may benefit from wage-based lottery prioritization.
With 91,032 certified filings, COGNIZANT invests significantly in H-1B sponsorship. The company's 0% denial rate suggests strong compliance with H-1B requirements and documentation standards.
Note: H-1B regulations are subject to change. Fees shown are estimates based on 2024 USCIS fee schedules. Actual costs may vary based on company size, premium processing, and future rule changes.
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