What may allow an asylum applicant who experienced past persecution to be granted asylum?

Severe past persecution is a critical factor in determining an asylum applicant's eligibility for asylum. When an applicant has experienced significant harm or mistreatment due to one of the protected grounds—race, religion, nationality, membership in a social group, or political opinion—this history can substantiate their fear of future persecution in their home country. The severity of the past persecution can establish a credible basis for the applicant's claim, as it demonstrates the risks they face if forced to return.

Understanding the context of the other options can clarify why they do not meet the criteria for granting asylum in this scenario. Inability to attend school may point to hardships, but it does not equate to persecution based on a protected ground and typically does not indicate a reasonable fear of future harm. Similarly, possessing dual citizenship does not have a direct bearing on an asylum claim regarding persecution; it may even complicate the applicant's situation in certain ways. Finally, having relatives in the United States, while potentially providing support, does not inherently qualify the applicant for asylum unless it can be shown that those relatives may be at risk of persecution or can strengthen the claim of fear based on past experiences. Therefore, severe past persecution stands out as the most significant and relevant criterion for supporting