Success Stories: Advancing Student Success Through Educational Psychology: EB-2 NIW Approval for a Researcher in Higher Education
Client’s Testimonial:
“Thank you so much for all your support!”
On July 21st, 2025, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for an Educational Developer in the Field of Educational Psychology (Approval Notice).
General Field: Educational Psychology
Position at the Time of Case Filing: Educational Developer
Country of Origin: China
State of Residence at the Time of Filing: Connecticut
Approval Notice Date: July 21st, 2025
Processing Time: 12 months, 27 days
Case Summary:
We are pleased to share the recent EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a researcher specializing in educational psychology, currently serving as an educational developer. This client, originally from China, focuses on leveraging both quantitative and qualitative methodologies to investigate how cognitive and non-cognitive factors influence learning and teaching dynamics in higher education settings.
A Mission to Improve Higher Education Outcomes
At the heart of the client’s work lies a mission to strengthen academic and instructional effectiveness in colleges and universities. By analyzing elements like creativity, phonological processing, and cognitive strengths and weaknesses, her research has uncovered crucial patterns affecting student learning and engagement. Her work particularly emphasizes the need for evidence-based teaching strategies that are inclusive, equitable, and responsive to today’s diverse student populations.
The client’s studies explore themes such as the impact of digital tools on learning, the role of group diversity in enhancing divergent thinking, and how emotions and personality influence creativity and academic performance. These insights contribute significantly to addressing rising dropout rates and declining student outcomes in U.S. institutions of higher education.
Academic Impact and Recognition
To date, the client has published six peer-reviewed journal articles, including work in authoritative journals. Her publication record includes one first-authored article. These contributions have garnered 123 citations, reflecting her strong academic reach and influence in the field. Notably, two of these papers rank among the most highly cited in the Psychiatry/Psychology field for their publication years, based on percentile metrics.
Moreover, the client has demonstrated her standing in the academic community by serving as a peer reviewer for major academic journals and conferences. With at least 25 reviews completed, her expertise is trusted by leading platforms such as the American Educational Research Association and the American Psychology Association.
Backed by Community Support
The petition featured letters of recommendation from experts who spoke convincingly of the client’s role in shaping best practices in educational psychology. One recommender wrote,
“Her work not only deepens our theoretical understanding of learning mechanisms but also offers actionable strategies that institutions can implement to better support their students.”
Such testimonials affirm the real-world impact and national relevance of the client’s research.
Strategic Case Built by NAILG
The North America Immigration Law Group (NAILG) structured a compelling case emphasizing the national importance and substantial merit of the client’s research, her proven ability to advance her field, and the benefit of waiving the labor certification. The petition successfully addressed all prongs under the Matter of Dhanasar framework and secured NIW approval within a notably efficient review period.
This approval recognizes not only the client’s past contributions but also her potential to help reshape educational practices and improve outcomes for students in the United States. NAILG is honored to have played a role in bringing this endeavor one step closer to long-term impact.