Get SMART: Scholarship Applications Due December 4th

Applications are open for the Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship-for-Service Program. Managed by the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Research and Technology (DASA (R&T)), SMART is a Department of War (DoW) scholarship-for-service program for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines critical to government operations and national security.

SMART serves as a workforce development program for the DoW to improve the flow of new, highly skilled technical labor into the Department and to enhance the technical skills of the workforce already in place. It is a unique opportunity that offers STEM college students scholarships and internship opportunities in exchange for their commitment to becoming federal employees upon graduation.

The program provides scholarships for bachelor's, master's and Ph.D. students, covering full tuition, monthly stipends, health insurance, book allowances and immersive summer internships lasting 8 to 12 weeks. Post-graduation, scholars transition into civilian positions within their sponsoring facility, equipped with a wealth of experience gained through internships and work opportunities.

The Capability Program Executive for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (CPE CBRND) became a SMART sponsoring facility last year and welcomed its first two SMART scholars in May 2026.

Jackson Barrett, who is studying computer science and mathematics at the University of Maryland, said, “I became interested in the SMART scholarship because it covers all of my college expenses and guarantees internships and a job after graduation. I am most excited for the opportunity to work at APG [Aberdeen Proving Ground] over the summers and after I graduate.”

Likewise, Anastasia Rao, who is pursuing a Master of Engineering in systems engineering at the University of Virginia, added, “The principles of mentorship, scholarship and investment that are foundational to the SMART program encouraged me to pursue further education... I'm most excited to know there is already such an important mission ‘waiting’ for me with a wonderful, hardworking team that I will get to join and learn from.”

Not only is this a great opportunity for students, but it also allows CPE CBRND and other participating sponsors to tap into the next generation of talent to support a dynamic and adaptable workforce. STEM students interested in a career in the United States government are highly encouraged to apply.

When it comes to applying, Barrett and Rao offered some advice:

1. Choose several preferred sponsoring facilities that may be a good fit, so your application is more likely to be seen.
2. Be ready to speak in detail about anything on your resume during the interview process.
3. Become familiar with press materials that your sponsoring facility has released to help with understanding defense language.
4. Do not be afraid to express any of your interests and skills, trusting that the sponsoring facility will see in you what you cannot always see in yourself.
5. Go for it, do your research and trust the process!

The SMART application process includes submitting a resume, letters of recommendation, personal statements and sponsoring facility preferences. Applicants will also be interviewed by potential sponsoring facilities. Applications are due December 4, 2026. Students selected will be notified in April 2027 and will start their Cohort in May or June 2027. For eligibility requirements, application instructions and more information, visit https://www.smartscholarship.org/smart.

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