The Unofficial SMART Scholarship Forum

That's some good information! I appreciate it!

I did hear someone say in one of the video seminars that yes they have been telling sponsoring facilities they have to interview. They did that last year too but a decent amount still did not. Also keep in mind the government is chaotic right now so that’s making me a little more hopeful. There were a few DoD offices not in the program as well as SFs at my career fair and selection process does vary.

I’m not sure about other branches of the military but I do know the Navy offers a TON of other opportunities outside of SMART if you’re nuclear.

While I appreciate the sentiment, this year SMART said they're mandating interviews if SFs are looking to select someone. So, while a SF might accidently ignore that directive, it is now extremely unlikely to get an award without an interview.

Unfortunately, not getting an interview can be rough, but also know that no interview does not mean that facilities are not interested in you. With how the process works, facilities don't have full discretion to get as many scholars as they want. So, when picking candidates, some may conduct interviews, while others may just submit a few names without one.

Not saying to get hopes up, because interviews are generally a good sign, but until you get the final notification don't take the lack of interview as a rejection.

I got no interviews. To anyone else that didn't get an interview: This is a real bummer, but you're still smart and capable. You will figure out funding for your education. Work hard and, if you want, apply next year. You got this bud!