Extraordinary ability isn't one industry. It's a standard.

What "extraordinary ability" looks like

Sustained competition at the top tier, recognized titles, named accolades, leading-role coaching at distinguished programs.

Qualifying evidence examples

• ▸Tournament medals, league standings, national-team selection
• ▸Major sports press coverage and trade publications
• ▸Documented top compensation or prize money
• ▸Judging or coaching at recognized competitions
• ▸Critical role on a distinguished team or organization

What "extraordinary ability" looks like

Peer-recognized original contributions, citations, scholarly authorship, judging or peer review, key role at recognized institutions.

Qualifying evidence examples

• ▸Peer-reviewed publications and citation record
• ▸Patents adopted by industry
• ▸Peer review and editorial board service
• ▸Conference invitations and keynotes
• ▸Selective fellowships and grants

What "extraordinary ability" looks like

Funded ventures, recognized exits, named industry awards, press coverage, lead operating roles at distinguished companies.

Qualifying evidence examples

• ▸Venture funding and revenue milestones
• ▸Major business press features
• ▸Pitch / startup awards
• ▸Advisory or judging roles
• ▸Original methodologies or products adopted at scale

What "extraordinary ability" looks like

Senior leadership at distinguished firms, industry recognition, high compensation, speaking and judging, measurable strategic impact.

Qualifying evidence examples

• ▸Top-tier executive compensation and total-rewards data
• ▸C-suite or leading-role appointments
• ▸Industry awards and rankings
• ▸Keynote speaking and panel judging
• ▸Original frameworks adopted in the industry

What "extraordinary ability" looks like

Lead or starring roles, major press, commercial success, recognized awards, distinguished credits and collaborations.

Qualifying evidence examples

• ▸Lead roles at distinguished productions / galleries
• ▸Major arts press and reviews
• ▸Documented box office, streams, sales
• ▸Named arts awards and nominations
• ▸Judging or jurying at recognized competitions