EB-1ASports and athleticsIndividualDecided 2017Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
JUN222017_01B2203
AwardsMetJudgingMetScholarly articlesMetFinal meritsNot met
Our summary
A synchronized swimmer and coach sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification in athletics. Petitioner claimed and met awards, judging, and scholarly articles criteria. AAO found initial three criteria satisfied but sustained acclaim and top-tier status not demonstrated in final merits analysis, dismissing appeal.
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
- Awards · Petitioner received lesser internationally recognized awards and place finishes at synchronized swimming competitions.
- Judging · Petitioner served as judge at synchronized swimming event, meeting judging criterion.
- Scholarly articles · Petitioner authored scholarly article in synchronized swimming publication.
What was missing
- Final merits · Petitioner has not shown sustained national or international acclaim or that she is among small percentage at very top of field.
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Awards | Met | Petitioner received lesser internationally recognized awards and place finishes at synchronized swimming competitions. |
 Judging | Met | Petitioner served as judge at synchronized swimming event, meeting judging criterion. |
 Scholarly articles | Met | Petitioner authored scholarly article in synchronized swimming publication. |
 Final merits | Not met | Petitioner has not shown sustained national or international acclaim or that she is among small percentage at very top of field. |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.