An assistant professor of criminology seeking EB-2 with NIW to conduct research on combating human trafficking claimed substantial merit and national importance. The AAO found substantial merit but insufficient evidence that the specific research endeavor would impact national response to trafficking at the required level.

Biostatistician petitioner sought NIW for EB-2 classification based on work on pediatric HIV clinical trials. AAO sustained appeal, finding all three Dhanasar prongs satisfied: proposed endeavor has substantial merit and national importance, petitioner well positioned to advance it, and national interest favors waiving job offer requirement.

An entrepreneur seeks NIW as EB-2 advanced degree professional to establish a company offering reputation, positioning, and brand-building consultancy to corporations. The AAO dismissed the appeal because the petitioner failed to show the endeavor has national importance, as it lacks broader implications extending beyond the company's clients to the relevant fields.

IT consultant sought EB-2 with national interest waiver claiming exceptional ability. AAO affirmed second denial after remand, finding only one of six exceptional ability criteria met. National importance not established for proposed IT consulting endeavor.