SMART Scholarship Program

Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship Program

The SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program is a premier Department of Defense (DoD) scholarship initiative designed for STEM students. This program provides full tuition, annual stipends, summer internships, and guaranteed civilian employment with the DoD after graduation.

What Does the SMART Scholarship Offer?

• Full tuition for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students.
• Annual stipends to support academic studies.
• Hands-on internships at over 150 DoD facilities.
• Guaranteed DoD employment post-graduation, contributing to national security and technological advancement.

Two Scholarship Opportunities

1. The SMART Scholarship – For students currently enrolled in college or those with previous college credit seeking another degree.
2. The Ronald V. Dellums Memorial SMART Scholarship – For students with no previous college credit pursuing a bachelor’s degree.

Why Choose SMART?

• Join the largest education and workforce development initiative under the DoD STEM Program.
• Work in cutting-edge fields like AI, biotechnology, cybersecurity, autonomy, space, and 5G.
• Gain real-world experience and mentorship from top scientists and engineers.
• Graduate with a secure DoD career, applying your skills to national defense challenges.

Program Mission & Vision

Mission: To recruit, educate, employ, and develop future DoD civilian STEM professionals through lasting partnerships with academic institutions, STEM education ecosystems, and DoD laboratories.

Vision: To build a highly skilled, innovative talent pool ensuring the U.S. maintains its technological edge and meets national security needs.

Application Details

Applications Open Annually: August 1 – First Friday in December

Check your eligibility and apply today to become part of the next generation of STEM leaders supporting the Department of Defense!