During the O-1 application process, an individual must demonstrate their extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, arts, or athletics, or extraordinary achievement in the motion picture and television industries.

To qualify as an individual of extraordinary ability, an individual must show evidence of receipt of a major internationally recognized award, such as the Nobel Prize, or satisfy at least three of the following:

• Receipt of lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence in the field.
• Membership in associations in the field that require outstanding achievements of their members, as judged by recognized experts in the field.
• Evidence of authorship of scholarly articles in the field, in professional journals, or other major media.
• Published material in professional or major trade publications or major media about applicant’s work.
• Evidence of participation on a panel, or individually, as the judge of the work of others in the field.
• Evidence in the form of five or six letters and affidavits from prominent colleagues who can confirm applicant’s original scientific or scholarly contributions of major significance to the field. Regulations require a “peer group” must attest to the applicant’s outstanding qualifications. We have found that this requirement may be fulfilled by letters of recommendation in which the referees outline their own standing in the field.
• Evidence of employment in a critical or essential capacity for organizations and establishments that have a distinguished reputation.
• Evidence of commanding a high salary or other compensation for services. This category does not usually apply to academic positions.