Department of War Cyber Service Academy (DoW CSA)

Academic Year 2026-2027 Notice of Funding Opportunity

NOTICE OF FUNDING OPPORTUNITY
DEPARTMENT OF WAR
DEPARTMENT OF WAR (DOW) CYBER SERVICE ACADEMY (CSA)
ANNOUNCEMENT TYPE: Initial Announcement
FUNDING OPPORTUNITY NUMBER: HQ003425NFOEASD03
ASSISTANCE LISTING: 12.902 Information Security Grants
AUTHORITY: 10 U.S.C. 2200, Chapter 112
KEY DATES: See Grants.gov Dates
GRANTS OFFICE CONTACTS: jonathan.e.bertsch.civ@mail.mil (Grants Officer)
fedline.crowell.civ@mail.mil (Grants Specialist)
PROGRAM OFFICE CONTACT: osd.mc-alex.dod-cio.mbx.dod-csa@mail.mil
A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The Department of War (DoW) Cyber Service Academy (CSA) is authorized by Chapter
112 of Title 10, United States Code, Section 2200. The purpose of the program is to
support the recruitment of new cyber talent and the retention of current highly skilled
professionals within the DoW cyber workforce. Additionally, this program serves to
enhance the national pipeline for the development of cyber personnel by providing grants
to institutions of higher education.
Regionally and nationally accredited U.S. institutions of higher education, designated
under the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C) and
known as National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, Research, and/or
Cyber Operations (hereinafter referred to as designated institutions) are invited to submit
proposals for developing and managing a full-time, institution-based, grant-funded
scholarship program in cyber-related disciplines for Academic Year 2026-2027.
Consistent with 10 U.S.C. 2200b, proposals to this solicitation may also request modest
collateral support for purposes of institutional capacity building to include faculty
development, laboratory improvements, and/or curriculum development, in cyber-related
topics to providing a strong foundation for a DoW CSA.

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To foster the continued development of a robust recruitment scholarship program for the
Academic Year 2026-2027, eligible cyber applicants must fall into one of the following
categories:
• Community College students.
• Undergraduate students (Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors).
• Master's students.
• PhD/Doctoral students.
Traditional National Guardsmen and reservists are eligible to apply under the recruitment
program. Current DoW civilians and active-duty military members are only eligible for
the retention program. Applications for the retention program are processed under a
different memorandum. Institutions are not required to forward or handle retention
student applications. These individuals may also participate in the retention community
college program.
Senior Reserve Officer’s Training Corps (ROTC) participants are eligible to apply as
long as they do not currently have a service obligation with their ROTC activities.
Employees of non-DoW federal agencies are ineligible for either program.
B. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION
The DoW estimates awarding initiative grant awards with an estimated ceiling amount
and a period of performance ending 5 years from the date of the award to designated
institutions, operating independently or in collaboration with other accredited institutions,
including accredited postsecondary minority institutions. This does not guarantee future
funding availability. Institutions must re-apply to the DoW CSA Notice of Funding
Opportunity (NFO) annually in order to be eligible for funding in future years.
C. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION
A proposal to support students (recruitment or retention) is required to apply for any
capacity building opportunities. Capacity building only proposals will not be accepted.
To be eligible for an award, an organization must submit a certificate of Assurance or
Compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and be constantly in
compliance with the Act.
Institutions must be willing to advertise the DoW CSA program; conduct an evaluation of
applicants’ qualifications and abilities; provide recommendations for all applicants and
support selected scholars. If selected, institutions must comply with the following
requirements:
1. SCHOLARSHIP POST-AWARD REQUIREMENTS – RECRUITMENT (IF APPLICABLE)
• Recipient institutions must disburse award funds to students within 30 days of
receiving the federal award. Stipend disbursement frequency is determined by the
Institutions (weekly, monthly, quarterly, or once a semester).

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• Recipient institutions should inform students on how these stipends will be
disbursed as well as how other scholarship payments and reimbursements should
be handled.
• In the event of a student’s withdrawal from the program, the recipient shall notify
the DoW CSA Program Office and coordinate any appropriate funding changes to
the award.
• In accordance with their official grant award documentation, the recipient
institutions shall invoice at least once per quarter and submit quarterly financial
and performance reports. The performance reports shall provide a comparison of
the plans for the award versus the actual status of the award.
o The quarters should follow DoW Fiscal Year quarters (Q1: October-
December, reports due January 5; Q2: January-March, reports due April 5;
Q3: April-June, reports due July 5; Q4: July-September, reports due October
5).
• Recipient institutions shall enforce the DoW CSA Recruitment Scholar Handbook
as well as the institutions code of ethics.
2. SCHOLARSHIP POST-AWARD REQUIREMENTS – RETENTION (IF APPLICABLE)
• Recipient institutions must disburse award funds to students within 30 days of
receiving the federal award. Recipient institutions should inform students on how
scholarship payments and reimbursements should be handled.
• In the event of a student’s withdrawal from the program, the recipient shall notify
the DoW CSA Program Office and coordinate any appropriate funding changes to
the award.
• The recipients shall invoice at least once per quarter and submit quarterly
financial and performance reports. The performance reports shall provide a
comparison of the plans for the award versus the actual status of the award.
o The quarters should follow DoW Fiscal Year quarters (Q1: October-
December, reports due January 5; Q2: January-March, reports due April 5;
Q3: April-June, reports due July 5; Q4: July-September, reports due October
5).
• Recipients shall enforce the scholarship student handbook as well as the
institutions code of ethics.
3. CAPACITY BUILDING REQUIREMENTS (IF APPLICABLE)
• Recipient institutions shall execute the project per their proposals.
• The recipient institutions shall invoice at least once per quarter and submit
quarterly financial and performance reports. The performance reports shall
provide a comparison of the plans for the award versus the actual status of the
award.
o The quarters should follow DoW Fiscal Year quarters (Q1: October-
December, reports due January 5; Q2: January-March, reports due April 5;
Q3: April-June, reports due July 5; Q4: July-September, reports due October
5).

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D. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION
1. FORMS
Applicants must complete the mandatory forms and any optional forms in accordance
with the instructions on the forms and the additional instructions below. The required
fields should be completed in accordance with the “pop-up” instructions on the forms.
To activate the instructions, turn on the “Help Mode” (icon with the pointer and
question mark at the top of the form). Files that are attached to the forms must be in
Adobe Portable Document Form (PDF), except for the Initial Work Plan, unless
otherwise specified in this announcement. The applicant must mark their application
with the announcement number. A summary of what is required for a complete
application is below.
The chart below specifies which forms and attachments required and specifies the
maximum page lengths for attachments to be submitted along with the completed
form.
REQUIRED FORM PAGE LIMIT
SF424 Mandatory Form (V3.0) N/A
Assurances for Non-construction N/A
Programs (SF424B) (V1.1)
Budget Information for Non- N/A
construction Programs (SF424A) (V1.0)
Disclosure of Lobbying Activities N/A
(SFLLL) (V2.0)
Project Abstract Summary (V2.0) No more than two [2] pages for each
scholarship program, Recruitment and
Retention
Project Narrative (V1.2) No more than ten [10] pages for each
scholarship program, Recruitment and
Retention
Capacity Building Project Narrative No more than ten [10] pages for each
proposed project. Institutions may only
propose one project for each of the five
[5] areas.
DoW CSA Budget and Student N/A
Identification Sheet 2026-2027 (Excel
Format)
2. CONTENT AND FORM OF APPLICATION SUBMISSION
Proposals must be submitted via Grants.gov. See
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/grantors/grantor-standard-language.html for
information on how to complete the application using Workspace on Grants.gov.
Common formatting requirements across all submitted documents:
• Font shall be Times New Roman, 12 point
• Margins shall be 1 inch on all sides

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• Paper size shall be 8 ½ by 11. Documentation submitted under this NFO are
expected to be unclassified; classified applications are not permitted.
• All documents must be submitted in PDF format.
All submissions will be protected from unauthorized disclosure in accordance with
applicable law and DoW regulations. The applicant must appropriately mark each
page of their submission that contains proprietary information.
Supplemental documents must be attached via the Optional Attachments section of
the Project Narrative Attachment Form (V1.2).
See H08 Application Instructions for additional application instructions.
3. UNIQUE ENTITY IDENTIFIER (UEI) AND SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT (SAM)
Organizations must have a UEI, active SAM registration, and a Grants.gov account to
apply for grants. Please see https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/grantors/grantor-
standard-language.html for details on how to go through this process.
4. SUBMISSION DATES AND TIMES
Institutionally approved, signed, completed proposals which include all items listed
above and all student applications must be submitted on/before April 20, 2026. The
institution is responsible for submitting the proposal and student materials to the
WHS/AD Grants Office via Grants.gov by the date and time specified. Proposals or
student materials that are submitted after the deadline of April 20, 2026, are
“late” and will not be considered for an award or scholarship.
5. INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW
Not applicable.
6. FUNDING RESTRICTIONS
Per 2 CFR 200.216, funds may not be used to procure telecommunications equipment
or video surveillance services or equipment produced by:
• Huawei Technologies Company
• ZTE Corporation Hytera Communications Corporation
• Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company
• Dahua Technology Company
• Any subsidiary or affiliate of such entities
DoW will only fund salary, fringe benefits and indirect costs on awards under the
announcement. Funds from an award may not be used to attain fee or profit.
E. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION
See H08 Evaluation Factors for application review information.
Each application will be reviewed based on the selection criteria rather than against other
applications submitted under this Announcement.

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Applicants are advised that employees of commercial firms under contract to the
government may be used to administratively process applications. By submitting an
application, an applicant consents to allowing access to its application(s) by support
contractors. These support contracts include nondisclosure agreements prohibiting their
contractor employees from disclosing any information submitted by applicants.
In addition to the technical/program review, the DoW does a budget review and a risk
review as directed by 2 CFR 200.206, including a review of the Federal Awardee
Performance and Integrity Information System (FAPIIS). Applicants may review
information in FAPIIS and comment on any information entered into that system.
Comments made by applicants will be taken into account in addition to other information
in considering applicants’ integrity, business ethics, and record of performance.
At the time of application, there is no additional material to be submitted for this review.
However, there may be additional requests for clarification as these reviews progress.
Options: The Government will evaluate options for award purposes by adding the total
cost for all options to the total cost for the basic requirement. Evaluation of options will
not obligate the Government to exercise the options during grant performance. The
Government may elect to divide any resulting grant award into option periods or may
elect to combine proposed option periods at the discretion of the Government.
Evaluation Panel: Technical details and budgets submitted under this NFO will be
protected from unauthorized disclosure. The cognizant Program Officer and other
Government subject matter experts will perform the evaluation of technical applications.
Restrictive notices notwithstanding, one or more support contractors may be utilized as
subject matter expert technical consultants. Each support contractor employee that has
access to technical and cost applications submitted in response to this NFO will be
required to sign a nondisclosure statement prior to receipt of any application submissions.
F. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION
1. AWARD NOTICES
The government will notify the recipient of the award via email. The notification
email regarding a selection is not authorization to commit or expend DoW funds. A
DoW grants officer is the only person authorized to obligate and approve the use of
Federal funds. This authorization is in the form of a signed Notice of Award. After
selection but prior to award, the government may request additional information. This
may include representations and certifications, revised budgets or budget
explanations, or other information as applicable to the proposed award. The award
start date will be determined after successfully coordinating all pre-award
requirements.
2. ADMINISTRATIVE AND NATIONAL POLICY REQUIREMENTS
Appendix A to Part 1122—Terms and Conditions for NP Article I,
“Nondiscrimination National Policy Requirements”

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NP Article I. Nondiscrimination national policy requirements. (December 2014)
Section A. Cross-cutting nondiscrimination requirements. By signing this award or
accepting funds under this award, you assure that you will comply with applicable
provisions of the national policies prohibiting discrimination:
1. On the basis of race, color, or national origin, in Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of
1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000d et seq.), as implemented by Department of Defense (DoD)
regulations at 32 CFR part 195.
2. On the basis of gender, blindness, or visual impairment, in Title IX of the
Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. 1681 et seq.), as implemented by
DoD regulations at 32 CFR part 196.
3. On the basis of age, in the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 (42 U.S.C. 6101 et
seq.), as implemented by Department of Health and Human Services regulations
at 45 CFR part 90.
4. On the basis of disability, in the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794), as
implemented by Department of Justice regulations at 28 CFR part 41 and DoD
regulations at 32 CFR part 56.
5. On the basis of disability in the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C.
4151 et seq.) related to physically handicapped persons' ready access to, and use
of, buildings and facilities for which Federal funds are used in design,
construction, or alteration.
Section B. [Reserved]
Appendix B to Part 1122—Terms and Conditions for NP Article II, “Environmental
National Policy Requirements”
NP Article II. Environmental national policy requirements. (December 2014)
Section A. Cross-cutting environmental requirements. You must:
1. You must comply with all applicable Federal environmental laws and regulations.
The laws and regulations identified in this section are not intended to be a
complete list.
2. Comply with applicable provisions of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401, et seq.)
and Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1251, et seq.).
3. Comply with applicable provisions of the Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention
Act (42 U.S.C. 4821-4846), as implemented by the Department of Housing and
Urban Development at 24 CFR part 35. The requirements concern lead-based

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paint in buildings owned by the Federal Government or housing receiving Federal
assistance.
4. Immediately identify to us, as the Federal awarding agency, any potential impact
that you find this award may have on:
a. The quality of the “human environment”, as defined in 40 CFR 1508.14,
including wetlands; and provide any help we may need to comply with the
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA, at 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), the
regulations at 40 CFR 1500-1508, and E.O. 12114, if applicable; and assist
us to prepare Environmental Impact Statements or other environmental
documentation. In such cases, you may take no action that will have an
environmental impact (e.g., physical disturbance of a site such as breaking
of ground) or limit the choice of reasonable alternatives to the proposed
action until we provide written notification of Federal compliance with
NEPA or E.O. 12114.
b. Flood-prone areas and provide any help we may need to comply with the
National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, as amended by the Flood Disaster
Protection Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 4001 et seq.), which require flood
insurance, when available, for federally assisted construction or
acquisition in flood-prone areas.
c. A land or water use or natural resource of a coastal zone that is part of a
federally approved State coastal zone management plan and provide any
help we may need to comply with the Coastal Zone Management Act of
1972 (16 U.S.C. 1451, et seq.) including preparation of a Federal agency
Coastal Consistency Determination.
d. Coastal barriers along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts and Great Lakes' shores
and provide help we may need to comply with the Coastal Barrier
Resources Act (16 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), concerning preservation of barrier
resources.
e. Any existing or proposed component of the National Wild and Scenic
Rivers system and provide any help we may need to comply with the Wild
and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 (16 U.S.C. 1271 et seq.).
f. Underground sources of drinking water in areas that have an aquifer that is
the sole or principal drinking water source and in wellhead protection
areas, and provide any help we may need to comply with the Safe
Drinking Water Act (42 U.S.C. 300f et seq.).
5. You must comply fully with the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended
(ESA, at 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), and implementing regulations of the

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Departments of the Interior (50 CFR parts 10-24) and Commerce (50 CFR parts
217-227). You also must provide any help we may need in complying with the
consultation requirements of ESA section 7 (16 U.S.C. 1536) applicable to
Federal agencies or any regulatory authorization we may need based on the award
of this grant. This is not in lieu of responsibilities you have to comply with
provisions of the Act that apply directly to you as a U.S. entity, independent of
receiving this award.
6. You must fully comply with the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, as
amended (MMPA, at 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.) and provide any assistance we may
need in obtaining any required MMPA permit based on an award of this grant.
Section B. [Reserved]
Appendix C to Part 1122—Terms and Conditions for NP Article III, “National Policy
Requirements Concerning Live Organisms”
Section A. Cross-cutting requirements concerning live organisms.
1. Human Subjects
a. You must protect the rights and welfare of individuals who participate as
human subjects in research under this award and comply with the
requirements at 32 CFR part 219, DoD Instruction (DoDI) 3216.02, 10 U.S.C.
980, and when applicable, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations.
b. You must not begin performance of research involving human subjects, also
known as human subjects research (HSR), that is covered under 32 CFR part
219, or that meets exemption criteria under 32 CFR 219.101(b), until you
receive a formal notification of approval from a DoD Human Research
Protection Official (HRPO). Approval to perform HSR under this award is
received after the HRPO has performed a review of your documentation of
planned HSR activities and has officially furnished a concurrence with your
determination as presented in the documentation.
c. In order for the HRPO to accomplish this concurrence review, you must
provide sufficient documentation to enable his or her assessment as follows:
i. If the HSR meets an exemption criterion under 32 CFR 219.101(b), the
documentation must include a citation of the exemption category under 32
CFR 219.101(b) and a rationale statement.
ii. If your activity is determined as “non-exempt research involving human
subjects”, the documentation must include:

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A. Assurance of Compliance (i.e., Department of Health and Human
Services Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP) Federalwide
Assurance (FWA)) appropriate for the scope of work or program plan;
and
B. Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, as well as all
documentation reviewed by the IRB to make their determination.
d. The HRPO retains final judgment on what activities constitute HSR, whether
an exempt category applies, whether the risk determination is appropriate, and
whether the planned HSR activities comply with the requirements in
paragraph 1.a of this section.
e. You must notify the HRPO immediately of any suspensions or terminations of
the Assurance of Compliance.
f. DoD staff, consultants, and advisory groups may independently review and
inspect your research and research procedures involving human subjects and,
based on such findings, DoD may prohibit research that presents unacceptable
hazards or otherwise fails to comply with DoD requirements.
g. Definitions for terms used in paragraph 1 of this article are found in DoDI
3216.02.
2. Animals
a. Prior to initiating any animal work under the award, you must:
i. Register your research, development, test, and evaluation or training
facility with the Secretary of Agriculture in accordance with 7 U.S.C.
2136 and 9 CFR 2.30, unless otherwise exempt from this requirement by
meeting the conditions in 7 U.S.C. 2136 and 9 CFR parts 1-4 for the
duration of the activity.
ii. Have your proposed animal use approved in accordance with Department
of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 3216.01, Use of Animals in DoD Programs
by a DoD Component Headquarters Oversight Office.
iii. Furnish evidence of such registration and approval to the grants officer.
b. You must make the animals on which the research is being conducted, and all
premises, facilities, vehicles, equipment, and records that support animal care
and use available during business hours and at other times mutually agreeable
to you, the United States Department of Agriculture Office of Animal and
Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA/APHIS) representative, personnel
representing the DoD component oversight offices, as well as the grants

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officer, to ascertain that you are compliant with 7 U.S.C. 2131 et seq., 9 CFR
parts 1-4, and DoDI 3216.01.
c. Your care and use of animals must conform with the pertinent laws of the
United States, regulations of the Department of Agriculture, and regulations,
policies, and procedures of the Department of Defense (see 7 U.S.C. 2131 et
seq., 9 CFR parts 1-4, and DoDI 3216.01).
d. You must acquire animals in accordance with DoDI 3216.01.
3. Use of Remedies. Failure to comply with the applicable requirements in
paragraphs 1-2 of this section may result in the DoD Component's use of
remedies, e.g., wholly or partially terminating or suspending the award,
temporarily withholding payment under the award pending correction of the
deficiency, or disallowing all or part of the cost of the activity or action (including
the federal share and any required cost sharing or matching) that is not in
compliance. See OAR Article III.
Section B. [Reserved]
Appendix D to Part 1122—Terms and Conditions for NP Article IV, “Other National
Policy Requirements”
NP Article IV. Other National Policy Requirements. (December 2014)
Section A. Cross-cutting requirements.
1. Debarment and suspension. You must comply with requirements regarding
debarment and suspension in Subpart C of 2 CFR part 180, as adopted by DoD at
2 CFR part 1125. This includes requirements concerning your principals under
this award, as well as requirements concerning your procurement transactions and
subawards that are implemented in PROC Articles I through III and SUB Article
II.
2. Drug-free workplace. You must comply with drug-free workplace requirements in
Subpart B of 2 CFR part 26, which is the DoD implementation of 41 U.S.C.
chapter 81, “Drug-Free Workplace.”
3. Lobbying.
a. You must comply with the restrictions on lobbying in 31 U.S.C. 1352, as
implemented by DoD at 32 CFR part 28, and submit all disclosures required
by that statute and regulation.
b. You must comply with the prohibition in 18 U.S.C. 1913 on the use of Federal
funds, absent express Congressional authorization, to pay directly or indirectly

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for any service, advertisement or other written matter, telephone
communication, or other device intended to influence at any time a Member
of Congress or official of any government concerning any legislation, law,
policy, appropriation, or ratification.
c. If you are a nonprofit organization described in section 501(c)(4) of title 26,
United States Code (the Internal Revenue Code of 1968), you may not engage
in lobbying activities as defined in the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995 (2
U.S.C., chapter 26). If we determine that you have engaged in lobbying
activities, we will cease all payments to you under this and other awards and
terminate the awards unilaterally for material failure to comply with the award
terms and conditions.
4. Officials not to benefit. You must comply with the requirement that no member of
Congress shall be admitted to any share or part of this award, or to any benefit
arising from it, in accordance with 41 U.S.C. 6306.
5. Hatch Act. If applicable, you must comply with the provisions of the Hatch Act (5
U.S.C. 1501-1508) concerning political activities of certain State and local
government employees, as implemented by the Office of Personnel Management
at 5 CFR part 151, which limits political activity of employees or officers of State
or local governments whose employment is connected to an activity financed in
whole or part with Federal funds.
6. Native American graves protection and repatriation. If you control or possess
Native American remains and associated funerary objects, you must comply with
the requirements of 43 CFR part 10, the Department of the Interior
implementation of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of
1990 (25 U.S.C., chapter 32).
7. Fly America Act. You must comply with the International Air Transportation Fair
Competitive Practices Act of 1974 (49 U.S.C. 40118), commonly referred to as
the “Fly America Act,” and implementing regulations at 41 CFR 301-10.131
through 301-10.143. The law and regulations require that U.S. Government
financed international air travel of passengers and transportation of personal
effects or property must use a U.S. Flag air carrier or be performed under a cost
sharing arrangement with a U.S. carrier, if such service is available.
8. Use of United States-flag vessels. You must comply with the following
requirements of the Department of Transportation at 46 CFR 381.7, in regulations
implementing the Cargo Preference Act of 1954:
a. Pursuant to Public Law 83-664 (46 U.S.C. 55305), at least 50 percent of any
equipment, materials or commodities procured, contracted for or otherwise
obtained with funds under this award, and which may be transported by ocean

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vessel, must be transported on privately owned United States-flag commercial
vessels, if available.
b. Within 20 days following the date of loading for shipments originating within
the United States or within 30 working days following the date of loading for
shipments originating outside the United States, a legible copy of a rated, “on-
board” commercial ocean bill-of-lading in English for each shipment of cargo
described in paragraph 8.a of this section must be furnished to both our award
administrator (through you in the case of your contractor's bill-of-lading) and
to the Division of National Cargo, Office of Market Development, Maritime
Administration, Washington, DC 20590.
9. Research misconduct. You must comply with requirements concerning research
misconduct in Enclosure 4 to DoD Instruction 3210.7, “Research Integrity and
Misconduct.” The Instruction implements the Governmentwide research
misconduct policy that the Office of Science and Technology Policy published in
the Federal Register (65 FR 76260, December 6, 2000, available through the U.S.
Government Printing Office website:
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2000/12/06/00-30852/executive-
office-of-the-president-federal-policy-on-research-misconduct-preamble-for-
research).
10. Requirements for an Institution of Higher Education Concerning Military
Recruiters and Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC).
a. As a condition for receiving funds available to the DoD under this award, you
agree that you are not an institution of higher education (as defined in 32 CFR
part 216) that has a policy or practice that either prohibits, or in effect
prevents:
i. The Secretary of a Military Department from maintaining, establishing, or
operating a unit of the Senior Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC)—
in accordance with 10 U.S.C. 654 and other applicable Federal laws—at
that institution (or any subelement of that institution);
ii. Any student at that institution (or any subelement of that institution) from
enrolling in a unit of the Senior ROTC at another institution of higher
education.
iii. The Secretary of a Military Department or Secretary of Homeland
Security from gaining access to campuses, or access to students (who are
17 years of age or older) on campuses, for purposes of military recruiting
in a manner that is at least equal in quality and scope to the access to
campuses and to students that is provided to any other employer; or

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iv. Access by military recruiters for purposes of military recruiting to the
names of students (who are 17 years of age or older and enrolled at that
institution or any subelement of that institution); their addresses, telephone
listings, dates and places of birth, levels of education, academic majors,
and degrees received; and the most recent educational institutions in which
they were enrolled.
b. If you are determined, using the procedures in 32 CFR part 216, to be such an
institution of higher education during the period of performance of this award,
we:
i. Will cease all payments to you of DoD funds under this award and all
other DoD grants and cooperative agreements; and
ii. May suspend or terminate those awards unilaterally for material failure to
comply with the award terms and conditions.
11. Historic preservation. You must identify to us any:
a. Property listed or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic
Places that will be affected by this award, and provide any help we may need,
with respect to this award, to comply with Section 106 of the National
Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (54 U.S.C. 306108), as implemented by the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation regulations at 36 CFR part 800 and
Executive Order 11593, “Identification and Protection of Historic Properties,”
[3 CFR, 1971-1975 Comp., p. 559]. Impacts to historical properties are
included in the definition of “human environment” that require impact
assessment under NEPA (See NP Article II, Section A).
b. Potential under this award for irreparable loss or destruction of significant
scientific, prehistorical, historical, or archeological data, and provide any help
we may need, with respect to this award, to comply with the Archaeological
and Historic Preservation Act of 1974 (54 U.S.C. chapter 3125).
12. Relocation and real property acquisition. You must comply with applicable
provisions of 49 CFR part 24, which implements the Uniform Relocation
Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (42 U.S.C. 4601, et
seq.) and provides for fair and equitable treatment of persons displaced by
federally assisted programs or persons whose property is acquired as a result of
such programs.
13. Confidentiality of patient records. You must keep confidential any records that
you maintain of the identity, diagnosis, prognosis, or treatment of any patient in
connection with any program or activity relating to substance abuse education,
prevention, training, treatment, or rehabilitation that is assisted directly or
indirectly under this award, in accordance with 42 U.S.C. 290dd-2.

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14. Pro-Children Act. You must comply with applicable restrictions in the Pro-
Children Act of 1994 (Title 20, Chapter 68, subchapter X, Part B of the U.S.
Code) on smoking in any indoor facility:
a. Constructed, operated, or maintained under this award and used for routine or
regular provision of kindergarten, elementary, or secondary education or
library services to children under the age of 18.
b. Owned, leased, or contracted for and used under this award for the routine
provision of federally funded health care, day care, or early childhood
development (Head Start) services to children under the age of 18.
15. Constitution Day. You must comply with Public Law 108-447, Div. J, Title I, Sec.
111 (36 U.S.C. 106 note), which requires each educational institution receiving
Federal funds in a Federal fiscal year to hold an educational program on the
United States Constitution on September 17th during that year for the students
served by the educational institution.
16. Trafficking in persons. You must comply with requirements concerning trafficking
in persons specified in the award term at 2 CFR 175.15(b), as applicable.
17. Whistleblower protections. You must comply with 10 U.S.C. 2409, including the:
a. Prohibition on reprisals against employees disclosing certain types of information
to specified persons or bodies; and
b. Requirement to notify your employees in writing, in the predominant native
language of the workforce, of their rights and protections under that statute.
Section B. [Reserved]

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Application Instructions 20260319

INSTRUCTIONS BY APPLICANT TYPE
RECRUITMENT SCHOLARSHIPS
Announcing and Promoting the Program:
National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity wishing to submit a proposal will be expected to take the following actions, at a
minimum, to promote student interest in the DoW CSA opportunity.
Institutions must be willing to advertise the DoW CSA program; conduct an evaluation of applicants’ qualifications and abilities; provide
recommendations for all applicants and support selected scholars. Institutions will have five weeks to review all student applications (27
February – 03 March 2026) and are reminded to submit all required nominations (DoW CSA Budget and Student Identification Sheet 2026-
2027) as well as the required grants documents by 20 April 2026.
Institutions must demonstrate how they plan to lay a sound foundation for the development of a robust cyber program for undergraduate and
graduate students enrolled in the institution or its collaborating institutions’ degree and graduate certificate cyber programs. To this end,
institutions receiving grants will be required to conduct a self-evaluation to identify improvements in program design and management for
implementation in future years.
Manage the Application Review and Candidate Assessment Process:
Institutions electing to propose establishment of a recruitment/basic scholarship program are required to verify each applicant’s eligibility for
scholarship and academic sufficiency, to evaluate each eligible candidate’s knowledge and ability in certain competency areas important to
successful cyber work, and to provide a relative endorsement level for each eligible candidate. Institutions may determine the procedures to be
followed in conducting the evaluation, including records verification, individual interviews, faculty review panels, as long as all applicants are
afforded full and equal opportunity for consideration in appropriate review phases.
The nomination for each applicant must be included in the DoW CSA Budget and Student Identification Sheet 2026-2027. A review should
include be based on the overall evaluation of all applicant materials, including the competency evaluations described above. In addition to a brief
statement about each student, institutions shall indicate only one of the following three levels of endorsement for each applicant:
1. Not Recommended
2. Recommended
3. Highly Recommended

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RETENTION SCHOLARSHIP
Announcing and Promoting the Program:
Institutions may, but are not required to, address this section. Active-duty military members (including active-duty reservist and National Guard
members), as well as permanent DoW civilian employees are eligible to apply, but must first be nominated by their Component. Institutions are
proposing their intent to host retention students. Institutions are not required to find retention students.
The Institutions will provide a technical approach that communicates one of the following program tracks. Additional information is included as a
separate PDF (DoW CSA Retention Program 2026)
1. Two-Year Community College Program
2. DoW Partnership Transfer Credit Programs
3. Graduate Certificate Program
Institutions must be willing to consider acceptance of DoW-selected students who meet college/university entrance requirements. Institutions
should briefly address the following by utilizing the DoW CSA Budget and Student Identification Sheet 2026-2027:
• number of credit hours required for degree completion.
• estimated number of months to complete degree.
• prerequisite qualifications required or desired (if any) of potential DoW students.
• whether students will be required to attend courses on the college campuses or whether there are alternative means (e.g. web-based or
satellite-based distance learning) through which students might participate in the NCAE’s degree programs.

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CAPACITY BUILDING
The institution’s current academic programs and proposed enhancements provide significant benefits to potential Cyber Scholarship students and
support DoW mission needs.
The institutions should identify key activities (e.g., programs, forums or partnerships with DoW, other government Components, academia, or private
industry) that enhance its cybersecurity academic credentials and contribute to faculty, staff, and student awareness and experiences in current
cybersecurity trends. Lab activities and curricula enhancements should provide students with critical cyber skills and knowledge.
Cost supporting capacity building should be identified separately from scholarship costs and should detail salaries, materials, equipment, and related
direct and indirect costs for supporting the initiative(s) proposed.
Institutions are advised that the request shall be limited to the following amounts:
• Outreach to Academia – Faculty / Curriculum / Facility Development: $150,000.00
• Outreach to Academia – Information Security Research and Education (INSuRE) Summer Camps: $125,000
• Outreach to Academia – Community Cyber Outreach: $125,000
• DoW CSA Boot Camp: $500,000
Examples of Projects Under Focus Areas:
Outreach to DoW / Outreach to Academia:
• Faculty Development: Implement faculty development programs that provide experiential learning opportunities to cultivate a larger and
more skilled force of cybersecurity educators.
• Curriculum Development: Create modular cybersecurity curriculum with content that is readily mappable to the work roles, tasks, and
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) of the DCWF and DoWD 8140.01.
• Facility Development: Foster collaboration by creating shared lab facilities and technology resources. Make these accessible to other
departments, institutions, and DoW partners to support joint software testing and hands-on training initiatives.
• INSuRE Summer Camps: Host summer camps for students and faculty that provide collaborative, hands-on research opportunities on real-
world cybersecurity challenges, fostering talent and strengthening the pipeline between academia and government. Additional guidance is
provided.
• Community Cyber Outreach: Establish community cyber outreach initiatives, partnering with educational institutions, local organizations,
and veteran support groups to raise public awareness, promote cyber education, and illuminate pathways into DoW careers.
• DoW CSA Boot Camp 2027: Host the boot camp for the newly selected CSA scholars, providing the foundational, hands-on training
necessary to launch their careers and forge a strong cohort identity.
Registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) prior to submission. (www.sam.gov)

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DoW CSA Bootcamp 2027

P a g e | 1
DoW CSA Recruitment Scholar
Boot Camp- 2027
The Department of War (DoW) Cyber Service Academy (CSA) Program Office is seeking a National Center
of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (CAE-C) that currently supports student recruitment scholarships to
plan, execute, and host the summer 2027 DoW CSA Recruitment Student Boot Camp. This event will bring
together newly named DoW CSA Scholars, academic representatives, and DoW agency points of contact.
The goal of the boot camp is to provide a direct engagement experience for DoW CSA recruitment
students and their selecting agencies. During the event, students will have the opportunity to meet agency
representatives and connect with other students who will be joining the same DoW Agency.
The primary focus for Cyber Service Academy (CSA) institutions is the submission of scholarship support
proposals. In addition to the main scholarship program, this document presents a separate and optional
opportunity to host the 2027 DoW CSA Boot Camp. Institutions may choose to respond to this boot camp
solicitation, but it is not a requirement. All proposals for hosting the boot camp will be considered stand-alone
activities and will be evaluated independently of any scholarship support submissions. Submitting a proposal
for this offer will not help or hinder an institution's 2026 DoW CSA submission.
Institutions may request up to $500,000 for this initiative but should understand that final funding
amounts may be reduced to adhere to the DoW's available budget.
Institutions should address all logistical requirements of planning an event including, but not limited to
the following items in their proposal:
1. Date of Event. New DoW CSA recruitment students will be selected before April 2027, with
scholarship acceptances being due in May 2027. The event should be held between the June
and July 2027. Offerors should take into consideration other academic events during this time
and avoid scheduling at the same time. Offerors may suggest dates into September with a
justification. Weekend events will be considered as well.
2. Location of Event. The Offeror may hold the event either on campus or at a hotel, but
proposals recommending on-campus facilities are preferred. Offerors should consider
distance to and from airports in the identification of a location.
3. Agenda: The event agenda should span 3 or 4 days, consisting of 1 or 2 full-days, with a half-
day before and after the main event for travel, check-in, and departure. The Offeror will work
with the DoW CSA Program Office to allow enough time for topics/activities such as DoW
overview, initial clearance processing, resume writing, separate meetings for students and
DoW agency representatives, separate DoW CSA Program Office and faculty meeting, and an
overview from the DoW CSA Program Office. Draft agendas may be included in the proposal.
4. Attendees: The DoW CSA Program Office estimates 150-200 recruitment students, 85-100
University Representatives (1 from each school), and 35-40 government representatives. The
DoW CSA will work with the Offeror to identify attendees and provide contact information.
5. Travel: The Offeror should be able to process travel for recruitment students and
approximately 30 University Representatives to include airfare, two- or three-nights lodging
(additional nights may be authorized based on departure flight schedules), airport transfer to
DoW CSA 2027 Boot Camp

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P a g e | 2
event location, and meals (those not provided by the event). Rental cars will not be authorized
for attendees. The remaining university representatives are currently on a DoW CSA grant and
will process travel through their university. Government representatives will process travel
through the DoW CSA Program Office according to GSA travel policies.
6. Accommodations: Offerors should identify how they plan to house the students. This can be
done either in campus dorms or hotels. Offerors may recommend students share rooms.
There should be enough local hotels to house the university and government attendees
(requires government per diem rate). Proposals should identify how accommodations will be
made for those who may need accessible rooms.
7. Room Size/Space Requirements: Offerors should identify space large enough to hold at least
250-300 people. The tables should be arranged in large rounds, but the DoW CSA Program
Office is open to other suggestions. The event space should also allow for breakout sessions.
These rooms will be used for the DoW Agency meetings. Breakout rooms can be set up
theater-style, but again the DoW CSA is open to suggestions.
a. Wi-Fi should be available in all meeting rooms
b. Main room should have AV support
8. Hybrid and Virtual Participation: The Offeror must provide a robust virtual meeting solution (e.g.,
Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or a comparable platform) to support hybrid sessions and enable remote
participation. The proposed platform must be capable of hosting all event activities, including main
sessions and concurrent breakouts, while ensuring a high-quality experience for both in-person and
virtual attendees.
9. Meals: Meals may be provided during the event if they are part of the meeting and there is
an agenda for that time. Proposals should address how dietary restrictions and allergies will
be accommodated.
10. Registration/Badging: Offeror should address the registration and badging process. This
includes, but is not limited to, pre-event registration and on-site registration. Offerors should
identify how they propose to badge attendees. The DoW CSA Program Office should have
access to the registration lists.
11. Printing / Materials / Supplies: Offeror should identify required supplies, materials, and any
printing requirements. The DoW CSA Program Office will work with the offeror to identify any
handouts.
12. Networking: Offeror should identify creative and/or unique strategies to encourage
networking during the event. Icebreaker events are also encouraged.
13. Evening Events/Socials: Evening or Social events are not a required portion of the proposal.
The DoW CSA cannot provide support funds for such activities. The Offeror may include such
evening/social events in their proposal, but they should identify how they will be financially
supported. Free events are encouraged (walking tours, movie or game nights, etc).
14. Promotional Items / Branded Materials: The DoW CSA will authorize the purchase of
DoW CSA t-shirts for students and faculty. Government representatives should have the
option to purchase a shirt. The DoW CSA will assist with providing some branded items.
No additional giveaway items will be authorized.
15. Media: Given the nature of this event, local or national media should not be invited to
attend.
DoW CSA 2027 Boot Camp

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P a g e | 3
Submission and Evaluation
Proposals must be submitted as a single PDF document attached as a part of the larger DoW CSA submission.
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
1. Institutional Capability and Experience: The institution's demonstrated experience and capability in
planning and executing large-scale, complex events (300+ attendees), particularly for professional or
academic audiences.
2. Quality of Proposed Plan: The feasibility, creativity, and thoroughness of the proposed event plan,
including the draft agenda, choice of facilities, and overall approach to logistical management (e.g.,
accommodations, registration, travel).
3. Hybrid Event Solution: The strength and technical feasibility of the proposed solution for supporting a
seamless hybrid and virtual participation experience.
4. Key Personnel: The qualifications and relevant experience of the proposed Key Personnel, particularly
in large-scale event management and logistics.
5. Budget: The reasonableness, cost-effectiveness, and clarity of the proposed budget and its
justification.
DoW CSA 2027 Boot Camp

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> Download XLSX file: H08 DoW CSA Budget and Student Identification Sheet 2026-2027.xlsx

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DoW CSA INSuRE Summer Camp 2027

Page | 1
Host Institutions for the
INSuRE Summer 2027 Camps
Introduction and Overview
The Department of War (DoW) Cyber Service Academy (CSA), in partnership with the Information
Security Research and Education (INSuRE) Program Office
https://www.caecommunity.org/initiatives/initiative-insure , is soliciting proposals from qualified academic
institutions to host the 2027 INSuRE Summer Workshop.
The Summer Workshop is a cornerstone of the INSuRE program, designed as an intensive, project-
based research experience. The primary goals of the Workshop are to:
• Provide students (bachelors / masters / PhD / Doctorate) with an opportunity to collaborate
on in-depth, innovative research projects.
• Foster a strong and collaborative research community among student peers.
• Offer a platform for sustained engagement with professionals from government and industry.
• Align student skill development with the DoD Cyber Workforce Framework (DCWF/DoD
8140.01) and introduce them to the mission of the DoW, and the DoW Cyber Service
Academy (CSA).
This event serves as a critical opportunity for deep learning, professional development, and hands-
on research experience in the cyber field.
Scope of Work
The selected host institution will be responsible for the overall planning, facilitation, and
management of the summer workshop. Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Providing the necessary infrastructure (virtual and/or physical) to support a multi-week
collaborative research project.
• Coordinating with the INSuRE Program Office to manage student applications, team
formation, and projects.
• Mapping the Workshop's learning objectives and project outcomes to relevant DCWF/8140
work roles and competencies.
• Integrating dedicated sessions or materials to inform students about the DoW CSA program,
its benefits, and the application process for careers within the DoW.
Host Institutions for the INSuRE Summer 2027 Camps

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Page | 2
• Administering post-workshop surveys and compiling a final report on outcomes, challenges,
and participant success metrics.
Proposal Submission Requirements
To ensure a thorough and equitable evaluation, all proposals must be formatted to include the
following sections in the order listed.
Statement of Capability
Proposals must begin with a Statement of Capability (not to exceed one page) that summarizes the
institution's qualifications. This statement should highlight experience with project-based learning
or similar research workshops, relevant faculty expertise, and the quality of available infrastructure.
Proposed Workshop Structure and Timeline
Applicants must provide a detailed framework for the workshop. This section must describe:
• Modality: The proposed format of the workshop (e.g., fully virtual, hybrid).
• Timeline: A sample timeline outlining key phases and milestones.
• Mentor Engagement: A plan for facilitating effective interaction between students and
Problem Mentors (PMs).
• Final Showcase: A description of the proposed format for final project presentations.
DCWF/8140 Alignment
Applicants must describe how the proposed workshop projects and learning objectives will map to
specific work roles, tasks, and competencies within the DoD Cyber Workforce Framework.
DoW Cyber Service Academy:
The proposal must detail a plan to educate students on the DoW Cyber Service Academy (CSA)
program. This could include sessions, materials, or guest speakers (e.g., current DoW CSA members,
DoW recruiters) focused on the benefits of the program and the pathways to apply for and secure a
career within the Department of War.
Additionally, the proposal should set a goal of reserving 20% of the overall workshop capacity to
provide priority access for current DoW CSA Scholars.
Key Personnel
The proposal must identify the Key Personnel who will facilitate the workshop, including a Workshop
Coordinator or Director. Provide brief biographies for each person, highlighting their qualifications
and experience relevant to their proposed role.
Host Institutions for the INSuRE Summer 2027 Camps

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Page | 3
Evaluation and Metrics for Success
Proposals must include an Evaluation Plan detailing the metrics for measuring the workshop's
success. This should include methods for assessing the quality of final projects, participant skill
development, and feedback from both students and Problem Mentors.
Detailed Budget
A detailed, line-item budget must be included. The budget should clearly justify all anticipated costs
and demonstrate how the funds will be used to support the workshop's objectives. (Utilize the DoW
CSA Budget and Student Identification Sheet 2026-2027)
Logistical and Administrative Details
• Workshop Duration: Each workshop will run for 3-4 weeks, depending on the problem
difficulty and Problem Mentor (PM) availability. Proposals should describe how they will
manage this variable duration. Note: Problems and Problem Mentors will be solicited
through the DoW CSA via an internal tasker with assistance from the INSuRE Team.
• Workshop Timing: The workshop is planned for the Summer 2027 timeframe (June-August).
The exact start and end dates will be finalized with the selected host institution.
• Delivery Model: The host institution will define the primary delivery model (virtual, hybrid,
or in-person) in their proposal.
Budget
A total of $125,000 may be requested for each camp. Funds may be allocated for personnel costs,
virtual collaboration platform licenses, supplies, and honoraria or stipends for guest experts or
student support, as justified in the budget.
Submission and Evaluation
Proposals must be submitted as a single Portable Document Format (PDF) document attached as a
part of the larger DoW CSA submission.
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
1. The institution's demonstrated capabilities and experience.
2. The clarity and feasibility of the proposed workshop structure.
3. The quality of the plan for aligning projects with the DCWF/8140 framework.
4. The thoroughness and creativity of the plan for integrating DoW CSA.
5. The qualifications of the proposed Key Personnel.
Host Institutions for the INSuRE Summer 2027 Camps

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Page | 4
6. The effectiveness of the Evaluation and Metrics for Success plan.
7. The reasonableness and cost-effectiveness of the proposed budget.
Host Institutions for the INSuRE Summer 2027 Camps

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DoW Retention Program 2026-2027

Pa ge | 1
DoW Cyber Service Academy
Retention Scholarship Program
The Department of War (DoW), through the Cyber Service Academy (DoW CSA), is
expanding its strategy to advance the operational readiness and expertise of its cyber
workforce. A core component of this strategy is offering specialized cyber scholarships for
current DoW civilians and active-duty military. This program provides the financial support
for personnel to pursue advanced education through flexible formats—including online,
hybrid, and in-person programs—all designed to minimize disruption to mission-critical
duties.
To broaden these educational pathways, the DoW CSA focuses on identifying a curated set
of existing academic routes that align with DoW needs. The strategy is to connect personnel
specifically with one of three pathways: designated 2-year degree programs, formal
partnership programs (which offer tracks to a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree), or
specialized graduate certificate programs. This structured approach ensures that
educational pursuits directly support the DoW's evolving requirements and align with the
qualifications outlined in the DoD Cyber Workforce Framework (DoDD 8140).
Community College Programs:
The 2-year degree pathway provides a crucial on-ramp for personnel seeking to enter
(transitioning from other DoW career fields) or solidify their role within the cyber workforce.
By focusing on associate's degree programs, the DoW CSA offers a foundational academic
route for DoW civilians and military members to gain essential, hands-on skills. This option is
ideal for both upskilling in a current technical role and for those transitioning into a cyber
career field, providing a fast and effective way to acquire a formal credential that aligns with
the requirements of DoD 8140.
In addition to completing the required solicitation narrative, designated community colleges
wishing to host DoW civilians and military members must also use the Dow CSA Budget and
Student Identification Sheet 2026-2027 to submit their information. On the Retention DoW
Civs Military tab, you will identify the number of students your institution is willing to accept
and the associated costs for each of those students for one academic year. The Retention
Degree Identification tab should be used to list the specific programs being offered. The
degree programs identified will be used to help shape the internal DoW announcement of
scholarships.
Partnership Programs:

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Pa ge | 2
Many DoW civilian and military employees participate in rigorous cyber training and
certification programs through specialized DoW institutions. By creating pathways to
translate these credentials into college credit, your institution can attract DoW students and
potentially shorten their path to a degree.
As a required supplement to the solicitation narrative, institutions wishing to feature their
established partnership programs must also use the DoW CSA Budget and Student
Identification Sheet 2026-2027 to submit their information. To be featured, partners must
confirm that their degree programs align with the DoD Cyber Workforce Framework (DoD
8140) and provide key details on the form. This includes the degree program name, the
specific DoW training eligible for credit (e.g., the Joint Cyber Analysis Course - JCAC), the
number of credits awarded, and the maximum number of students the program can host.
The degree programs identified will be used to help shape the internal DoW announcement
of scholarships.
Please note: The DoW CSA's role is to identify and promote these opportunities, not to assist
in the creation or negotiation of new credit-transfer agreements.
Graduate Certificate Programs:
The graduate certificate pathway offers DoW personnel targeted, advanced training in
specific cyber disciplines. The focus of this pathway is on certificate programs whose
curriculum aligns with the specialized skills and competencies outlined in the DoD Cyber
Workforce Framework (DoD 8140). This approach helps ensure that the credentials earned
are highly relevant to mission-critical roles and directly contribute to the professional
development of our workforce.
To feature a graduate certificate program, institutions should complete the Dow CSA Budget
and Student Identification Sheet 2026-2027. On the Retention Degree Identification tab, list
the specific programs being offered. Then, on the Retention DoW Civs Military tab, identify
the number of students your institution is willing to accept and the associated costs for each
of those students for one academic year. Please also use the form to specify any admission
requirements, such as a prior degree or GRE/GMAT scores. The programs gathered through
this process will be used to build the DoW's internal scholarship announcement.

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Evaluation Factors

EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARDS
Below are general evaluation factors to consider across all three solicitation types:
• Eligibility: The applicant/institution meets the eligibility requirements identified in the grant solicitation, and has documented all
requirements unique to the offer, such as collaboration with the designated program principal, or being in good standing or compliance
with requirements of previous grants.
• Sound Methodology: The institution demonstrates a sound and reasonable method for achieving the stated goals of the solicitation. A
timeline of activities is included as appropriate
• Quality & Experience: Proposal must clearly state the qualifications of the offeror and the proposed team members to fulfill the
objectives of the solicitation and certifies each participant’s professional commitments to allow time to perform on the grant.
• Deliverability: Proposal clearly specifies plans for required deliverables, and those plans meet the required deliverables of the
solicitation. The proposal acknowledges the deliverable will be provided to the Department of War (DoW) Cyber Service Academy (CSA)
Program Office and will be made available to the public as appropriate.
• Objective & Clarity: The proposal clearly accounts for all solicitation requirements and detailed descriptions of how the project meets
the objectives of the solicitation.
• Identified Partners: Institutions provides contact information for project partners and clearly delineates each partner’s responsibilities.
• Cost: Costs are reasonable in proportion to the scope of the proposal. If several proposals meet requirements and are evaluated to be equal
in quality/ability to fulfill objectives, DoW CSA will evaluate the cost of the proposal against the proposed methods, deliverables,
associated costs, and return on investment.
• Project Innovation: In cases where the solicitation specifically asks for innovative solutions, the proposal describes how this project
demonstrates innovation.
• Past Performance: The institution has a demonstrated history in managing grant funding, including fulfilling reporting and invoicing
requirements. If applicable, DoW CSA will consider amount of outstanding grant funding (e.g., failure to invoice), number of grants that
have not been invoiced or remain at 50% or less at the mid-point of the period of performance and number of outstanding reports.
Page 1 of 3

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RECRUITMENT
SCHOLARSHIPS
Recruitment student proposals will be evaluated against the following criteria:
• Merits of the institution’s proposed approach to establishing DoW CSA standards and requirements.
• Institution’s process for promoting and advertising the DoW CSA opportunity.
• Congruence with statutory intent, the requirements of the DoW, and its relevance and potential contribution to the DoW mission needs.
• Institution’s existing resources to accomplish the program objectives.
• The feasibility and reasonableness of the proposed costs.
Proposals must include the following:
• Identified count of student nominations (including student name), scholarship duration (full/half year – Returning recruitment scholars only),
degree name and level, degree delivery type, campus location and tuition rates (including in-state/out of state) for each student. This information
must be entered Project Budget Sheet.
• Identified institution Programs of Study or Degree for each student.
• Proposed student management plan, including any required meetings and on-campus events.
• Proposed plan with metrics to monitor and evaluate student progress and success
• Proposed plan on how the institution will include the option to obtain commercial certifications identified in DoW 8140.
• A copy of the institution’s student code of conduct.
Proposals missing the Project Budget Sheet with all required information, as listed above, will not be considered. Proposals will be evaluated by a panel
of DoW cyber professionals sourced from the Military Departments, the Office of the DoW Chief Information Officer, and other DoW Components.
After institution nominations, student applications will be evaluated by participating DoW Components who plan to hire Scholars upon graduation.
Each DoW Component will select scholars based on their mission and DoW-aligned cyber-skill needs.
RETENTION
SCHOLARSHIP
Retention Scholarships will be evaluated separately from all other proposal sections using the criteria below:
• The merits of the proposed approach, and the ability of the institution to meet the conditions imposed by DoW for a community college,
partnership, or graduate certificate program.
• The reasonableness of the proposal cost and timeline to obtain the degree.
Proposals must include the following:
• Identified Programs of study offered and/or degrees.
• Proposed student management plan, including any required meetings and on-campus events.
• Proposed plan with metrics to monitor and evaluate student progress and success.
Page 2 of 3

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CAPACITY BUILDING
Capacity Building proposals will be evaluated separately from all other proposal sections using the criteria below:
• Only institutions submitting a scholarship proposal will be eligible for the capacity building portion. Capacity building only proposals will not
be accepted.
• The current academic programs and proposed enhancements provide significant benefits to potential DoW CSA Scholars and support DoW
mission needs by aligning to DoW strategies and workforce framework.
• The institution should identify key activities (e.g., programs, forums or partnerships with DoW, other government agencies, academia, or private
industry) that enhance its cyber academic credentials and contribute to faculty, staff, and student awareness and experiences in current
cybersecurity trends.
• Requests for research funding will not be authorized.
• Lab activities and curricula enhancements should provide students with critical cyber skills and knowledge.
The DoW CSA Boot Camp proposals for 2027 will also be reviewed based on published requirements of the event. (See DoW CSA Boot Camp PDF)
The INSuRE Summer Camp proposals for 2027 will also be reviewed based on additional published requirements. (See DoW CSA INSuRE Summer
Camp PDF)
The DoW CSA Program Office, in conjunction with technical evaluators/ subject matter experts, will review the reasonableness of the cost proposal.
Page 3 of 3