Published AAO appeal decisions

A self-represented scholar in Buddhist and philosophical studies sought extraordinary ability classification, claiming awards, memberships, published material, judging and a leading role. The AAO agreed with the director that none of five criteria was met, since awards and memberships were not selective and the publication was self-founded, so acclaim was not shown.

An academic researcher in sciences claimed extraordinary ability through best paper awards, publications, and citations. AAO found only two of ten criteria met: published material and scholarly articles. Awards lacked documentation of national significance. Two criteria insufficient; petitioner failed to show sustained national or international acclaim at the very top of field.

Self-petitioner school teacher claimed extraordinary ability but submitted only educational credentials and reference letters unrelated to regulatory criteria. AAO held petitioner failed to meet any criterion and did not sustain the burden of proof. Appeal dismissed without substantive analysis.

A school teacher filed for EB-1A without supporting any of the ten regulatory criteria. The AAO dismissed the appeal, finding the petitioner submitted only educational credentials and character reference letters from church pastors, none relating to the required criteria for extraordinary ability in education.