What are the main evaluation factors in an Academic Evaluation analysis by the USCIS?

When reviewing an Academic Evaluation for the EB-2 NIW, USCIS seeks to confirm that credentials earned outside the United States genuinely correspond to an American academic degree. Several qualitative factors shape that reading.

The main ones typically include:

• Academic equivalency: whether the foreign program matches, in content and depth, its United States counterpart.
• Reputation and accreditation: the official recognition of the originating institution.
• Evaluator methodology: a transparent analysis that sets out the criteria and sources used.
• Academic records: consistent transcripts and certificates that substantiate the evaluation.

The more thorough and clearly reasoned the evaluation, the greater the confidence it conveys to the officer reviewing the case. The focus is not only on the degree itself, but on the strength with which the equivalency is demonstrated.

Because criteria are applied on a case-by-case basis, it is worth checking the updated USCIS guidance and selecting a recognized evaluator, ideally with the support of a qualified specialist.

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Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

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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.