One of the many possible things you can submit with your O-1 application to show that you are at the top of your field is a scholarly article (or several!) that you have had published. What exactly makes an article “scholarly,” though? What kinds of pieces should you submit?

What Should You Submit as a “Scholarly Article” for Your O-1 Visa Application?

Generally speaking, qualifying articles include those that have been published in peer-reviewed publications that are “recognized as scholarly or scientific journals” or “top international publications” in your specific field.

A Quick Word About the Importance of Citations

It is also important that any articles submitted can point to significant and widespread citations. What does “significant and widespread” mean?

Well, here’s an example of scholarly articles that were deemed to have “insufficient” citations:

• 5 articles with 3 citations each
• 1 article with 12 citations

An example of a batch of submitted articles with “sufficient” citations?

• 12 articles, each with over 3 citations

So it is not just the number of citations that matters. Also, it is important to note that you will not be given any more credibility for citing your own work — independent citation are all USCIS cares about.