A PhD student in Chemistry recently achieved EB-1A approval without receiving a Request for Evidence (RFE) after an initial denial. The applicant, who self-petitioned, refiled their application in early 2026 after addressing the concerns raised in the denial of their first application submitted in mid-2025.
Key Details:
- First application submitted: Mid August 2025
- Received Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID): September 2025
- Final denial issued: November 2025
- Refiled application submitted: End of January 2026
- Approval received: February 2026
- Total recommendation letters submitted: Approximately 38
The applicant’s initial submission included five criteria for EB-1A eligibility, which were all approved except for the final merits determination (FMD). After receiving the denial, the student enhanced their application by adding an additional criterion and quantifying their achievements, including citation counts and award prestige. This strategic approach, particularly the emphasis on FMD, was pivotal in securing approval on the second attempt.
This case highlights the importance of thoroughly addressing feedback from USCIS and effectively demonstrating sustained acclaim in the field for prospective EB-1A applicants.
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Source: r/eb_1a