DoD SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program
The Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship-for-Service Program is a highly competitive, Department of Defense initiative designed to recruit and retain top STEM talent to meet evolving national security needs. SMART provides students with full tuition, an annual stipend, summer internships, and a civilian career with the Department of Defense upon graduation. Scholars gain hands-on experience at facilities, working alongside leading scientists and engineers to solve real-world defense challenges. SMART’s merit-based scholarship opportunities are available to students pursuing STEM degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. In 2023, SMART expanded program eligibility to incoming college freshmen with no prior college credit, extending the opportunity to high school seniors.
By providing a pathway to education and a fulfilling career, SMART empowers the
research leaders of tomorrow to focus on their passions.
Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral STEM degrees
- Annual stipends
- Summer internships
- Mentorship from leading scientists and engineers
- Hands-on experience in technical fields
- Full-time civilian career with the Department of Defense after graduation*
*DoD civilians, also known as nonmilitary government employees, do not serve in the military
Eligibility:
- U.S. citizen
- 18 years of age or older by January 1, 2027
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Pursuing a degree in STEM*
- Planning to attend, or enrolled in, a regionally accredited U.S. college or university
- Able to obtain and maintain a security clearance**
* List of STEM Disciplines available on SMART website
**Security clearances are initiated by a scholar’s Sponsoring Facility after award
The application is open annually from August 1 to the first Friday in December.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates must apply directly through the SMART website at smartscholarship.org. Application closes December 5, 2025.