Published AAO appeal decisions

A young model claimed extraordinary ability through youth modeling competitions and newspaper features. The AAO found amateur awards at age fourteen do not indicate top-level achievement and newspaper coverage focused on career concerns rather than acclaim. Appeal dismissed for insufficient evidence of sustained extraordinary ability.

Soccer player claims extraordinary ability in athletics. Asserted awards, published material, and exhibition criteria. AAO found Second Division medals not highest level, runner-up trophies not nationally recognized, newspaper mentions not in major media, and exhibition criterion inapplicable to athletes. Evidence insufficient for sustained top-level acclaim.

Self-petitioner in athletics sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification based on karate victories and training. AAO found one criterion met but insufficient evidence of national or international sustained acclaim or top-tier status, dismissing appeal.

Self-petitioner former college athlete and runner sought EB-1A classification. AAO found collegiate awards insufficient for field of endeavor standard, published material not meeting criteria, and no sustained acclaim or evidence of continuing runner career.

Head horse trainer and jumper petitioner claimed extraordinary ability under EB-1A. AAO held petitioner failed to meet three regulatory criteria through objective evidence and instead relied excessively on expert letters. Achievements did not demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim at very top level. Appeal dismissed.

Equestrian professional seeking extraordinary ability classification in athletics. Petitioner met awards criterion through competitions in South America prior to 2003, but AAO found prize evidence diminished by lack of Grand Prix level success. Did not meet membership or published material criteria. Overall, evidence insufficient to demonstrate small percentage status at very top of field.