I received an honorable mention in a national competition. Is that the same as a ‘major prize’ for EB-1?

Not necessarily. An honorable mention shows that your participation was notable, but it typically carries less weight than a ‘major prize’, the term used in EB-1 for awards of greater prestige and recognition. Even so, it may be included as supporting evidence, depending on the context.

In the EB-1, what matters in an award is the level of the competition, its relevance in your field, and the reach of the prize. A top prize from a highly recognized competition signals distinction more directly than an honorable mention, though the prestige of the competition itself also influences that reading.

• Document the prestige and reach of the competition and the rigor of its selection process.
• Explain what the honorable mention represents within that award.
• Combine this recognition with other evidence of your distinction in the field.

On its own, an honorable mention rarely equals a ‘major prize’, but when combined with a strong overall record, it can reinforce your case. Since each case is evaluated individually, it is worth checking the updated criteria at USCIS and reviewing your profile with a specialist.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.