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Validating Foreign Diplomas

When applying for an EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW), presenting foreign educational qualifications can be a complex process, as you need to ensure that your credentials are recognized and equivalent to U.S. standards. One of the key aspects of this process is obtaining an educational equivalency evaluation, which confirms that your foreign degree is comparable to a U.S. degree. This article will guide you through the steps to present your foreign qualifications effectively and highlight where to find credential evaluation services to validate your foreign diploma.

1. Understanding the Need for Educational Equivalency​

If you obtained your degree outside of the United States, it’s crucial to demonstrate that your foreign education meets the U.S. educational standards required for an EB-2 NIW visa. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires that foreign degrees be evaluated to determine their equivalency to U.S. degrees. This ensures that your academic qualifications are comparable to the U.S. advanced degree requirements for the EB-2 visa category.

2. Steps to Present Foreign Qualifications​

A. Obtain a Credential Evaluation​

A credential evaluation is an official assessment that compares your foreign educational qualifications to U.S. educational standards. It typically involves a detailed analysis of your transcripts, diplomas, and academic records. Here’s how to go about it:

  1. Select a Credential Evaluation Service:

    • Choose a reputable credential evaluation service that is a member of recognized professional organizations, such as the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or the Association of International Credentials Evaluators (AICE). These organizations set standards for the evaluation process, ensuring that the evaluation is accepted by USCIS.

    NACES Site

    AICE Site

  2. Submit Your Documents:

    • Provide the credential evaluation service with your academic transcripts, diplomas, and any other relevant documents. Ensure that these documents are official copies and, if not in English, that they are accompanied by certified translations.

  3. Receive Your Evaluation Report:

    • The evaluation service will issue a report indicating the U.S. equivalence of your foreign degree. This report typically states whether your degree is equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, which is critical for your EB-2 NIW petition.

B. Compile and Organize Your Documents​

After obtaining your credential evaluation, the next step is to compile all relevant educational documents to include in your EB-2 NIW petition.

  1. Credential Evaluation Report:

    • Include the official credential evaluation report in your petition package. This document will serve as the primary evidence of your degree’s U.S. equivalence.

  2. Original Diplomas and Transcripts:

    • Submit copies of your original diplomas and academic transcripts. These should be clearly labeled and correspond with the information provided in the credential evaluation report.

  3. Certified Translations:

    • If your diplomas and transcripts are not in English, provide certified translations along with the original documents. Ensure that the translations are accurate and done by a qualified translator or translation service.

  4. Explanatory Statement:

    • Write a brief statement that explains the relevance of your educational background to your petition. Highlight how your foreign qualifications and the corresponding U.S. equivalency support your eligibility for the EB-2 NIW category.

3. Choosing the Right Credential Evaluation Service​

Selecting the right credential evaluation service is crucial to ensure that your foreign qualifications are accurately assessed and accepted by USCIS. Here are some tips for choosing a service:

  • Check for Membership in NACES or AICE: Ensure that the evaluation service is a member of either NACES or AICE, as these organizations are recognized by USCIS and provide assurance of the quality and reliability of the evaluations.
  • Consider the Type of Evaluation Needed: Determine whether you need a general evaluation (which provides an overall equivalency) or a detailed course-by-course evaluation (which breaks down each course you completed and its U.S. equivalent). The latter is often required for specific fields or for demonstrating specialized expertise.
  • Review Processing Times and Costs: Different services have varying processing times and fees. Some may offer expedited services if you need the evaluation quickly. Compare these factors when selecting a service.
  • Look for Immigration-Specific Services: Some evaluation agencies specialize in evaluations for immigration purposes, which can be beneficial as they are familiar with USCIS requirements and expectations.

4. Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them​

When presenting foreign qualifications, applicants may encounter certain challenges. Here are some common issues and tips to address them:

  • Inconsistent Academic Records: If your transcripts or diplomas have discrepancies (such as differences in names or dates), provide an explanation in your petition. Include affidavits or additional documentation if necessary.
  • Missing Documents: If you cannot obtain certain documents, such as transcripts from a closed institution, explain the situation in your petition and provide alternative evidence, such as letters from former professors or employers.
  • Delayed Evaluations: If the credential evaluation process is taking longer than expected, check with the service for updates and consider requesting a rush service if available.

5. Conclusion​

Presenting foreign qualifications in an EB-2 NIW petition requires careful planning and attention to detail. By obtaining a credential evaluation from a recognized service and properly organizing your documents, you can effectively demonstrate that your foreign education meets U.S. standards. This step is critical in establishing your eligibility for the EB-2 NIW and in convincing USCIS that your qualifications merit a National Interest Waiver. By following the guidance provided in this article, you can ensure that your foreign educational credentials are presented in the best possible light, enhancing the strength of your petition.