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How does an Academic Evaluation help demonstrate the strength of your profile in an EB-2 NIW petition?

In an EB-2 NIW petition, an Academic Evaluation establishes the equivalency and level of your credentials. Learn how to connect it to the rest of your petition package to strengthen your profile.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on July 16, 2026
1 min read
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An Academic Evaluation serves a specific purpose in the EB-2 NIW process: it establishes, clearly and formally, the equivalency and level of your degrees relative to the United States educational system. It helps the adjudicator understand your academic foundation, but it does not replace the broader body of evidence that demonstrates the value of your work.

For the evaluation to strengthen your profile, it must be well documented and aligned with the rest of your petition package. The goal is to connect your educational background to the contributions you intend to make, showing coherence between your academic history and your proposed endeavor.

  • Degrees and advanced credentials with their corresponding U.S. equivalency.
  • Publications, awards, and presentations that demonstrate peer recognition.
  • Expert letters that contextualize the strength of your professional trajectory.

Present this material in an organized and consistent manner. Because each case is evaluated individually, it is advisable to review the updated requirements on the USCIS website and work with a qualified specialist to position your Academic Evaluation effectively.

Learn more about EB-2 NIW

Category
EB-2 NIW Green Card
Self-petition
Allowed (no sponsor needed)
PERM
Waived
Processing
12-36 months
All about EB-2 NIW

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.

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How does an Academic Evaluation help demonstrate the strength of your profile in an EB-2 NIW petition?

In an EB-2 NIW petition, an Academic Evaluation establishes the equivalency and level of your credentials. Learn how to connect it to the rest of your petition package to strengthen your profile.

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