Acceptance Process
Acceptance Steps
The Army HBCU-MI SPARK program has a three-step acceptance process. Interns must successfully complete each step to be formally accepted into the program.
Step one is the Eligibility Review, conducted by Team Chitra, to confirm that the applicant meets all program requirements and has submitted a complete application. Step two is Mentor Selections, during which mentors from participating Army research facilities assess qualifications and fit by reviewing applications and conducting interviews with selected applicants. Step three is the Background Investigation, which involves the intern, Army security personnel, and Team Chitra to confirm eligibility for access to Army research environments.
Step 1: Eligibility Review
To complete the first step, applicants must be verified as eligible for the program. This involves reviewing the applicant’s transcript, resume, essays, citizenship status, GPA, and other eligibility criteria outlined on the About page of this website. All eligibility requirements must be met in full to advance to step two of the acceptance process.
Step 2: Mentor Selections
Once an applicant is deemed eligible, they advance to the next step—Mentor Selections. Mentors from participating Army research facilities will review application materials and may interview prospective interns. Please note that not all applicants will receive an interview, and being interviewed does not guarantee acceptance into the program.
Mentors who recommend a student for program participation will initiate a Mentor/Student Agreement (MSA). Applicants should sign only one MSA. If two mentors submit MSAs for the same applicant, the first MSA received by the program administrator will determine the assigned mentor moving forward.
To proceed to step three, the mentor must submit a signed MSA to the program administrator on behalf of the applicant.
Step 3: Background Investigation
After completing steps one and two, applicants begin the onboarding process and initiate their background investigation. In coordination with the Army Security Office and Army SPARK security personnel, interns will receive guidance on completing the required security forms and obtaining fingerprints.
All interns must receive a favorable background check to advance in the program. Background investigation timelines can vary, and some may take longer than others depending on individual circumstances.
Applicants must complete all three steps to participate in the program.
Questions regarding the selection process can be directed to support@armyspark.com.
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