This includes, but is not limited to architects, engineers, lawyers, physicians, surgeons, and teachers in elementary or secondary schools, colleges, academia, or seminaries.  It also includes any occupation for which a U.S. baccalaureate degree (or foreign equivalent) is the minimum requirement for entry into the occupation. For member of the professions, advanced degree means any U.S. academic or professional degree (or foreign equivalent degree)above that of a baccalaureate. A bachelor’s degree plus five years of progressive experience in the professions is considered as the equivalent of a master’s degree.

You may apply for a visa in this category if you are seeking to enter in the United States in your field of expertise and your entry will substantially benefit prospectively the national economy, cultural, or educational interests, or welfare of the United States. Exceptional ability has been defined as something more than what is usual, ordinary, or common, and requires some rare or unusual talent, or unique or extraordinary ability in a calling which, of itself, requires that talent or skill. The possession of a degree, diploma, certificate, or similar award from a college, university, school, or other institution of learning or a license to practice, or certification for a particular profession or occupation, shall not, by itself, be considered sufficient evidence of such exceptional ability.