EB-2 NIWComputer science and AIEmployerDecided 2026Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
JUL282026_02B5203
Merit and national importanceMetWell positionedNot metBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
A researcher and assistant professor sought NIW for EB-2 under Dhanasar. The AAO agreed the proposed endeavor had substantial merit and national importance but concluded the petitioner was not well-positioned to advance it, lacking demonstrated influence, institutional support, or feasible funding for research plans.
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 · USCIS and AAO agreed first prong established; industrial engineering research has merit
What was missing
- Well positioned · Academic credentials and publications alone insufficient; lacked evidence of influence, financial support, or institutional interest
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Met | USCIS and AAO agreed first prong established; industrial engineering research has merit |
 Well positioned | Not met | Academic credentials and publications alone insufficient; lacked evidence of influence, financial support, or institutional interest |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | Did not reach third prong because second prong failed; dispositive basis for dismissal |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.