Selection Process

The selection process of the DoD HBCU/MI Summer Research Internship Program comprises four distinct phases. Each phase is critical in ensuring that the most qualified candidates are selected and that all administrative and security requirements are fulfilled. Candidates must successfully navigate all four phases to achieve acceptance into the internship program.

Phase 1: Verification of Applicant Eligibility

In the first phase, all submitted applications are thoroughly reviewed to ensure compliance with program eligibility criteria. This phase involves confirming the applicant’s citizenship status, academic discipline, GPA, and enrollment at a qualified institution.

Eligibility Requirements include:

  • U.S. Citizenship (no dual citizenship)
  • Current enrollment in a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) or Minority Institution (MI)
  • Major in a STEM or DoD-relevant academic discipline
  • 18 years or older at the time of application
  • Full-time student or recent graduate (December 2024 or later)
  • GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
  • Possession of a Federal ID, such as a REAL ID* or a valid U.S. Passport
  • Successful completion of a background investigation

*To learn more about what a “Real ID” is, please visit the DHS website below and your state’s DMV website: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id/real-id-faqs

Only applicants who meet all eligibility requirements will progress to Phase 2.

Phase 2: Mentor Selection and Potential Interviews

During the second phase, mentors from participating laboratories evaluate eligible applicants and may conduct interviews. It should be noted that not all applicants will be granted an interview. Mentors will recommend candidates for program selection and facilitate signing a Partnership Agreement Form (PAF) with their chosen intern. Applicants should only sign one PAF; in cases where multiple mentors provide PAFs to a single applicant, the first PAF received by the program administrator will be considered valid. To proceed to Phase 3, the mentor must submit the signed PAF to the program administrator.

Phase 3: DoD Program Office Acceptance

In the third phase, the Partnership Agreement Forms are reviewed, and an official offer letter is sent to the DoD Program Office for approval. Once approved, the offer letter is forwarded to the selected applicant, who must sign and return it within two business days. It is imperative to note that an applicant who signs an offer letter but subsequently does not participate in the program may be disqualified from future program opportunities. While an acceptance letter may be issued before the completion of the background investigation, the candidate cannot begin participation until a favorable background check is confirmed.

Phase 4: Successful Background Investigation

The fourth and final phase requires a successful background investigation. The administrative office will guide selected interns through the necessary steps, including fingerprinting and completing required forms. It is crucial to initiate the background investigation process immediately upon selection, as the duration can vary significantly, taking anywhere from one to three months, depending on the level of clearance required. A favorable outcome is mandatory to advance to the final phase.

Successful completion of all four phases is required for admission into the program.

Selection Timeline

  • Phase 1: Eligibility Review: January 2025 to February 2025
  • Phase 2: Mentor Selections: February 2025 to March 2025
  • Phase 3: DoD Program Office Acceptance: February 2025 to April 2025
  • Phase 4: Background Investigations: February 2025 to May 2025

Questions

Questions regarding the selection process can be directed to internsupport@dodhbcumiinternship.com.