Application Process

Timeline:

  • Pre-Application Review with a PI, not later than January 31, 2023
  • Application DUE: February 1, 2023 at 11:59pm  THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS.  THIS DEADLINE WILL NOT BE EXTENDED BY THE GOVERNMENT.
  • Committee Review and Assessment: February 1-28, 2023
  • All applications, rankings and cost materials are forwarded by Penn State to DOD Program: NLT February 28, 2023
  • The Department of Defense Program will make selections: May 2023 (estimated)
  • Grant Award from DoD to PSU to fund awards: July/August 2023

Students who are interested in applying for the DOD-Scholarship Program must complete:

  1. Complete the ONLINE application with the National Scholarship program.
  2. OPTIONAL – and HIGHLY RECOMMENDED – Pre-submission PI Meeting with Dr. Giacobe or Dr. Hills to review your application for completeness.
  3. Two letters of recommendation from faculty, staff, or employers (see the instructions in the application).  The letters of recommendation must address the applicant’s capability in the six competency areas.
  4. Transcripts from all colleges or universities attended.  Unofficial Transcripts are acceptable for the application. If you are selected, you will need to submit OFFICIAL transcripts to the government.
  5. Completed application with your knowledge and ability in the six competency areas (see the instructions in the application).
  6. Returning Scholarship Students who started the CySP Program in 2022-2023 (last year) submit on the same portal that new applicants do.  Your application is due 15 February 2023 on the portal.
  7. Returning Scholarship students who started on CySP prior to 2022-23 should contact the PIs for guidance.

ALL COMPLETED APPLICATIONS will be reviewed by the Penn State Committee and will receive a rating of HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, RECOMMENDED or NOT RECOMMENDED.