I reviewed for a Q3 journal for 4 years. Does that count toward EB-1?

It can count. In the EB-1, serving as a reviewer for an academic journal is a type of activity that tends to be valued, because it signals that the community trusts your judgment to evaluate the work of others. Having done this consistently over several years helps demonstrate a sustained track record.

The weight of this experience, however, depends on context. Adjudicators tend to look at the prestige and reputation of the journal, as well as how this role fits within the broader picture of your background. A Q3-ranked journal signals genuine academic involvement, and the ideal approach is to reinforce that with the rest of your profile.

• Document the invitations and the period during which you served as a reviewer.
• Provide context for the reputation and reach of the journal within your field.
• Combine this with publications, citations, awards, and conference participation.

Because each case is evaluated individually, it is worth checking the latest USCIS guidance and organizing your evidence with the support of a specialist to strengthen your overall petition.

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.