What are the main issues USCIS raises in an RFE about Academic Evaluation?

In an RFE (Request for Evidence) about Academic Evaluation in an EB-2 NIW petition, the USCIS typically asks for clarification on how your foreign education compares to a degree earned in the United States. The goal is to confirm the strength of the equivalency presented.

Among the points that most commonly raise questions are:

• The credibility of the organization that issued the evaluation and its specialization in academic equivalency.
• The methodology used to compare your degree with U.S. standards, including curriculum and course content.
• Differences between the educational system of your home country and that of the United States, such as program structure and grading system.
• The consistency between your educational background and the field in which you intend to work.

Addressing each point clearly, with a detailed evaluation report and consistent translations, helps support the argument that your education provides a solid foundation for your work. Transparency and consistency across documents make a meaningful difference.

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

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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.