EB-2 NIWComputer science and AIEmployerDecided October 2025Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
OCT082025_04B5203
Merit and national importanceMetWell positionedNot metBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
Information technology researcher with advanced degree sought NIW. AAO dismissed appeal, finding proposed endeavor has national importance but petitioner lacks relevant expertise, clear research plan, and demonstrated funding success needed to be well-positioned to advance it.
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 · SCOPS and AAO both found proposed early cancer detection endeavor has substantial merit and national importance.
What was missing
- Well positioned · Petitioner's background in cybersecurity and infrastructure does not demonstrate knowledge or skills for cancer detection research; no clear plan or evidence of funding success.
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Met | SCOPS and AAO both found proposed early cancer detection endeavor has substantial merit and national importance. |
 Well positioned | Not met | Petitioner's background in cybersecurity and infrastructure does not demonstrate knowledge or skills for cancer detection research; no clear plan or evidence of funding success. |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | AAO did not reach third prong because petitioner failed second prong; issue is dispositive. |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.