What are the key elements of an effective response to an RFE about Academic Evaluation evidence?

An effective response to an RFE (Request for Evidence) about Academic Evaluation in the EB-2 NIW has one clear goal: to demonstrate, without any doubt, that your foreign education is equivalent to a degree obtained in the United States and supports your area of work.

Some elements tend to be decisive:

• An official academic evaluation from a recognized organization, comparing your coursework and degrees to their U.S. equivalents, with analysis of content, credit hours, and methodology.
• Certified copies of diplomas and transcripts, along with any required translations of the original documents.
• A cover letter that connects the evaluation to the EB-2 NIW requirements and to the national interest.

Just as important as the content is the organization: follow the RFE instructions point by point, confirm that everything is certified or authenticated, and maintain consistency across all documents. Clarity and completeness convey confidence to the adjudicator.

Since requirements can vary, it is worth reviewing your response with a specialist and checking the latest USCIS guidance before filing.

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.