As an Indian citizen studying at a US university, how do I handle the H1B visa question when applying to life science consulting firms?

Large consulting firms, IQVIA, LEK, BCG, are far more likely to honour H1B sponsorship than smaller boutiques. They have established immigration processes and are less likely to back out. Get any sponsorship commitment in writing before accepting an offer.

• Two people the mentor knows accepted verbal H1B assurances from smaller firms and were let down when the filing deadline came.
• A STEM-classified degree provides at least three years of F1 OPT, a meaningful buffer before H1B becomes urgent.
• Ask about sponsorship at the offer stage and confirm it in writing, not before applying.