EB-2 NIWComputer science and AIIndividualDecided November 2025Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
NOV242025_08B5203
Merit and national importanceMetWell positionedNot metBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
Computer science Ph.D. candidate proposed research in AI-enhanced network performance. AAO found proposed endeavor has substantial merit and national importance but rejected petition because petitioner lacks sufficient record of research success or progress to be well positioned to advance the work.
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 · Decision found proposed AI research has substantial merit and national importance
What was missing
- Well positioned · Citations insufficient to show record of success or progress positioning petitioner to advance endeavor
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Met | Decision found proposed AI research has substantial merit and national importance |
 Well positioned | Not met | Citations insufficient to show record of success or progress positioning petitioner to advance endeavor |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | Not reached because second prong failed; issue reserved |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.