EB-2 NIWComputer science and AIIndividualDecided March 2026Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
MAR162026_01B5203
Merit and national importanceMetWell positionedNot metBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
Data scientist with advanced degree pursuing PhD in Digital Transformation sought NIW for research on bio-inspired feature reduction algorithms. AAO found proposed endeavor had substantial merit and national importance but concluded petitioner lacked sufficient record of success or evidence to demonstrate being well positioned to advance the work. Appeal dismissed.
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 · Proposed research in bio-inspired algorithms for anomaly detection has substantial merit and national importance
What was missing
- Well positioned · Insufficient evidence of record of success or progress; citations and education alone insufficient to demonstrate being well positioned
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Met | Proposed research in bio-inspired algorithms for anomaly detection has substantial merit and national importance |
 Well positioned | Not met | Insufficient evidence of record of success or progress; citations and education alone insufficient to demonstrate being well positioned |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | Not reached because petitioner failed second Dhanasar prong; reserved for potential reconsideration |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.