NIW Checklist

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.