What Is an Academic Credential Evaluation for EB-2 NIW?

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If you are applying for an EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) green card and your highest academic degree was earned outside the United States, USCIS requires a credential evaluation to confirm that your foreign degree is equivalent to a U.S. degree. This document — known as an academic credential evaluation or foreign degree equivalency report — is one of the most critical pieces of evidence in your I-140 petition.

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At AcademicEval Services, we specialize exclusively in credential evaluations for immigration petitions, with a particular focus on EB-2 NIW cases. Based in Miami, Florida, we serve applicants and immigration attorneys across the United States.

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Why USCIS Requires a Credential Evaluation

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USCIS does not automatically recognize foreign academic degrees. An adjudicating officer reviewing your EB-2 NIW petition may not be familiar with the academic system of your home country. The credential evaluation translates your foreign degree into terms that USCIS can understand — confirming that your degree meets the threshold of an advanced degree (master's level or higher) required for EB-2 classification.

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Without a proper credential evaluation, your petition may receive a Request for Evidence (RFE) for additional proof of educational qualification — causing significant delays and additional costs. A well-prepared evaluation from a qualified evaluator, following AACRAO EDGE methodology, helps avoid this outcome.

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Document-by-Document vs. Course-by-Course Evaluation

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There are two main types of credential evaluations used in EB-2 NIW petitions:

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Document-by-Document Evaluation: This is the standard evaluation that confirms the U.S. equivalent of your foreign degree. For most EB-2 NIW applicants, this type is sufficient. It confirms that your degree is equivalent to a U.S. master's degree, Ph.D., or other advanced degree.

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Course-by-Course Evaluation: This more detailed evaluation lists every course you completed, the credits earned, and your GPA converted to U.S. standards. It is sometimes required when an immigration attorney wants to demonstrate the depth and specialization of your academic background, particularly for applicants relying on a combination of a bachelor's degree plus five years of progressive work experience to qualify for EB-2.

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Our evaluators assess your case individually and recommend the appropriate evaluation type based on your immigration strategy.

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What Documents Are Needed?

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To complete your EB-2 NIW credential evaluation, you will typically need to provide: your original diploma or degree certificate, official academic transcripts, and certified English translations of all documents if they are in a foreign language. We offer certified translation services in-house, ensuring your evaluation and translation are completed together and are fully consistent for USCIS review.

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Why Choose AcademicEval Services?

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AcademicEval Services is an ATA member and NAFSA member that prepares evaluations exclusively following AACRAO EDGE methodology — the gold standard accepted by USCIS, immigration attorneys, and U.S. universities. Our evaluations are used by leading immigration attorneys across the United States in successful EB-2 NIW, H-1B, O-1, and EB-1 petitions.

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We are based in Miami, Florida, and serve clients nationwide. Standard evaluations are delivered in 5–7 business days. Rush service is available in 2–3 business days for urgent petition deadlines. Free quote within 24 hours.