O-1A judging: what counts and how to build it
Sai Veda
Approved for the O-1A twice. Updated October 2026.
You were a judge of other people's work in your field. You were on a panel or you judged alone.
Based on 8 CFR 214.2(o)(3)(iii)(B)
My take
I'd start here. Hackathons always need judges from industry, and after a few of them you can move on to reviewing papers for conferences and journals. Aim for two or three well-known events a year.
What usually counts
- You judged a hackathon or competition because of your skills
- You reviewed papers for a conference, workshop or journal
- You were on a program committee or a selection panel
- You judged an awards program in your field
What usually does not count
- Events where anyone can sign up to judge
- Reviews of your team's work as part of your job
- One small event with no record of your role
How to build it
- Find three hackathons. Look at university hackathons, Major League Hacking and Devpost. Hackathons at large companies count too.
- Send an email to the organizers. Say who you are and what you work on. Ask to be a judge. Keep it short.
- Judge with care. Score each project and write useful notes. Good judges get asked again.
- Review papers next. When you have some experience, offer to review for a workshop or a journal.
- Save your proof that day. Keep the invitation, the page that shows your name and any thank-you note.
Proof to save
- The invitation or confirmation email
- The event page that lists you as a judge
- A letter from the organizer that says why they chose you
- Facts about the size of the event
Questions
Does judging a hackathon count for the O-1A?
It can. The organizers must invite you because of your skills. The event must be real and known in your field. Keep proof that you judged.
How many times must I judge?
There is no fixed number. I suggest two or three good events each year. Add paper reviews when you can.
This is what worked for me, not legal advice. Talk to an immigration lawyer about your case.
Sources
Official rules this guide is based on. Check them, and ask your lawyer, before you file.