NIW Checklist Based on My Case
This checklist is a comprehensive guide based on my successful NIW petition. Each exhibit includes both the necessary evidence and a clear explanation of its relevance to the petition, directly addressing the NIW criteria. I’ve ensured every exhibit ties back to the national interest and highlights my unique qualifications, offering a practical resource to strengthen your own case.
Exhibit 1: Identification and Status Documentation
Focus: Demonstrates identification and legal status in the U.S.
- Included copies of my passport, visa, and I-94 record.
- Provided EAD (Employment Authorization Document) copies to establish my eligibility for the petition.
Exhibit 2: Degree Certificate and Official Transcripts
Focus: Highlights academic credentials in relevant STEM fields.
- Attached my official degree certificates (Bachelor’s, Master’s) in STEM-related fields.
- Submitted transcripts to show my academic progression and coursework relevance.
Exhibit 3: Curriculum Vitae
Focus: A detailed overview of your professional background, achievements, and contributions in STEM education.
- Created a CV listing educational background, teaching positions, awards, and professional activities.
- Highlighted leadership roles in STEM education initiatives.
Exhibit 4: Employment Verification Letters
Focus: Letters confirming your teaching positions at various educational institutions.
- Collected letters from HR departments at institutions where I taught.
- Highlighted specific courses developed and their impact on students.
Exhibit 5 to Exhibit 7: Recommendation Letters
Focus: Letters from colleagues, supervisors, and students at various institutions.
- Obtained 15 letters from diverse sources, including colleagues, supervisors, and students.
- Included two expert recommendation letters in response to RFE.
Exhibit 9: Awards and Certificates
Focus: Documentation of awards and certificates for leadership and excellence in STEM outreach.
- Provided certificates for awards such as “Outstanding Educator of the Year.”
- Highlighted participation in local and national STEM outreach programs.
Exhibit 10: Promotion, Salary Raise, and New Contract Documentation
Focus: Evidence of career advancement, including promotions and salary increases.
- Submitted documentation of promotions and salary increases.
- Attached copies of new contracts reflecting updated titles and responsibilities.
Exhibit 11: Professional Developments
Focus: Documentation of participation in professional development, including STEM-related conferences.
- Submitted certificates of attendance for STEM education summits.
- Highlighted roles as a speaker or panelist.
Exhibit 12: Professional Development Receipts and Evidence
Focus: Receipts and expense documentation for attending professional conferences and summits.
- Submitted receipts for registration fees at conferences.
- Included itineraries or session details to demonstrate relevance.
Exhibit 13: Climate, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (CDEI) Committee Evidence
Focus: Evidence of involvement in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
- Provided documentation of participation in CDEI initiatives at my institution.
- Highlighted projects aimed at improving access to STEM education for underrepresented groups.
Exhibit 14: Math Instruction Colloquium (MIC) Participation Evidence
Focus: Documentation of participation in Math Instruction Colloquiums and relevant presentations.
- Included presentation slides and programs showcasing contributions.
- Highlighted mentorship of junior educators in STEM fields.
Exhibit 15 to Exhibit 18: Photos from Your Educational Activities
Focus: Photos documenting teaching and professional development activities at various educational levels.
- Included high-quality photos from classroom teaching, conferences, and workshops.
- Annotated photos to explain their context and relevance.
Exhibit 19: Gratitude Letters from Students
Focus: Letters from students expressing appreciation for teaching and mentorship.
- Attached letters from students highlighting the impact of teaching methods.
- Showcased feedback emphasizing influence on their academic success.