You Just Have to Meet 3 Out of 10 Criteria… Is It Really That Simple?
When I first looked into the EB-1A process, I read what most people do: "You just need to meet 3 out of 10 criteria." And honestly, I felt hopeful. I scanned the list and thought, I’ve done that. I’ve done this. That should count, too. It felt like a checklist. If I could check 3 boxes, I should be good to go, right?
I even thought—not just me, but so many of my colleagues would be eligible as well. But then I realized—checking boxes isn't even the starting point if you don’t know what exactly goes into those boxes to make them strong enough for a lawyer to say yes.
The Truth No One Tells You
Meeting 3 criteria isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about proving impact, significance, and sustained excellence in those categories. Just “having” an award, a publication, or a media mention isn’t enough. It’s not what you did—it’s how big it was, how unique it was, and how clearly you can document its value to your field.
For example, having a publication in a peer-reviewed journal may seem like it checks the “scholarly articles” box. But was it cited? Was it recognized by others in your field? Did it contribute to a meaningful shift in thinking or practice? These are the unspoken follow-up questions that matter.
Where Most People Get It Wrong
Many professionals approach EB-1A with the mindset that the criteria are flat, surface-level accomplishments. But EB-1A isn’t a reward for being great at your job. It’s a recognition of being in the top percentile of your field—and that requires storytelling, strategy, and supporting documentation that lawyers alone often can’t help you build.
This is why I talk so much about profile building. It’s not about inflating what you’ve done—it’s about learning to structure, present, and deepen your work so it speaks the language this process demands.
So, Is Meeting 3 Criteria Enough?
Technically, yes. But practically, no. You don’t just need to meet 3 criteria—you need to own them. You need to show leadership, originality, influence, and recognition that’s hard to ignore. And you need to prove it all in a way that holds up under the highest scrutiny.
This doesn’t mean it’s out of reach. But it does mean the strategy matters more than ever.
If you’ve ever read the 10 criteria and thought, I’ve got at least 3, you might be closer than you think—but it’s not a shortcut. It’s a starting line.
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