EB-2 NIWPhysics and astronomyIndividualDecided January 2021Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
JAN192021_03B5203
Merit and national importanceMetWell positionedNot metBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
Physics doctoral candidate seeking NIW for hypersonic technology research. AAO affirmed denial, finding proposed endeavor has national importance but applicant not well positioned to advance it. Master's degree and publications alone insufficient; lacked demonstrated role securing funding or generating field impact.
Official PDF
Official PDF ↗Published by USCIS. The summary is ours, in our own words; the decision text is on uscis.gov.
What the AAO accepted
- Merit and national importance · Director found first prong satisfied; AAO affirmed without disturbing this finding
What was missing
- Well positioned · Master's degree and publications insufficient; lacks sustained funding role or evidence of field impact
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Met | Director found first prong satisfied; AAO affirmed without disturbing this finding |
 Well positioned | Not met | Master's degree and publications insufficient; lacks sustained funding role or evidence of field impact |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | First prong failure means analysis not needed; second prong failure makes third unnecessary |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.