EB-2 NIWEducation and academiaIndividualDecided August 2026Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
AUG242026_03B5203
Merit and national importanceNot metWell positionedNot reached / not discussedBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
Graduate student in international law sought EB-2 NIW for online platform expanding African student pathways to U.S. education. AAO dismissed appeal, finding the specific endeavor lacks national importance; modest projected hiring and revenue insufficient for substantial economic impact.
Official PDF
Official PDF ↗Published by USCIS. The summary is ours, in our own words; the decision text is on uscis.gov.
No criterion in the table was found met in this decision.
What was missing
- Merit and national importance · Proposed online platform and advisory services lack demonstrated national importance; no broader structural implications beyond prospective students.
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Not met | Proposed online platform and advisory services lack demonstrated national importance; no broader structural implications beyond prospective students. |
 Well positioned | Not reached / not discussed | First prong failed; second prong not reached per Dhanasar framework. |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | First prong failed; third prong not reached per Dhanasar framework. |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.