Investing in the Future of STEM
For STEM students looking to gain not only an education but also a secure career path, the Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship-for-Service Program offers a unique and powerful opportunity. Funded by the Department of Defense (DoD), this program provides scholars with full tuition, annual stipends, hands-on internships, and guaranteed civilian employment upon graduation.
If you are a student with a passion for innovation and problem-solving, SMART is the perfect program to launch your career while contributing to national security and technological advancement.
What Makes the SMART Scholarship Stand Out?
Unlike traditional scholarships, SMART is more than just financial support—it’s a comprehensive education and workforce development program. Scholars receive:
- Full tuition coverage for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
- Annual stipends that allow students to focus on their studies without financial stress.
- Internships at DoD facilities, where they gain real-world experience and mentorship.
- Guaranteed DoD civilian employment, ensuring job security and career growth upon graduation.
Two Scholarship Opportunities to Fit Your Path
SMART provides two distinct scholarship options:
- The SMART Scholarship – Ideal for students already enrolled in college or those with previous college credit looking to pursue an additional degree.
- The Ronald V. Dellums Memorial SMART Scholarship – Designed for students without previous college credit, paving the way for them to earn a bachelor’s degree.
A Career with Purpose and Innovation
SMART scholars don’t just gain an education—they enter a world of cutting-edge innovation. Scholars work on real-world defense and security challenges in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, biotechnology, space technology, autonomy, 5G, and more. With over 150 DoD facilities participating in the program, students have access to world-class research environments and mentorship from top scientists and engineers.
Mission & Vision: Preparing the Next Generation of STEM Leaders
Mission: To recruit, educate, employ, and develop the future DoD civilian STEM workforce through lasting partnerships with academic institutions, STEM education ecosystems, and DoD research labs.
Vision: To create a highly skilled and innovative STEM workforce, ensuring the U.S. maintains its technological superiority to meet national security demands.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to take your education and career to the next level, applications for the SMART Scholarship open annually from August 1 to the first Friday in December.
Check your eligibility, explore scholarship options, and apply today to join a network of STEM leaders shaping the future of defense technology.
