CEB Embeds

COMMANDANT'S PROFESSIONAL INTERMEDIATE-LEVEL EDUCATION BOARD (CPIB)

The Commandant's Professional Intermediate-Level Education Board (CPIB) is the primary competitive board for selecting Majors and Major (selects) for resident Intermediate-Level School (ILS), funded graduate education, and other specialized programs. The board is held annually, and all application procedures and deadlines are published via MARADMIN.

Resident Professional Military Education (PME)

This program selects officers to attend their Intermediate-Level School (ILS) in a resident status. Completing resident ILS is a critical career milestone that prepares field-grade officers for billets of increased responsibility.

The CPIB screens and selects officers for the following resident PME opportunities:

U.S. Marine Corps PME

• Marine Corps Command and Staff College (CSC)
  • Location: Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia
  • Purpose: CSC is the Marine Corps' primary intermediate-level school, designed to prepare field-grade officers for the challenges of command and senior staff billets.
  • More Info: CSC Website

U.S. Sister-Service PME

• Army Command and General Staff College (ACGSC)
  • Location: Fort Leavenworth, Kansas
  • More Info: ACGSC Website
• College of Naval Command and Staff (CNCS)
  • Location: Naval Station Newport, Rhode Island
  • More Info: CNCS Website
• Air Command and Staff College (ACSC)
  • Location: Maxwell AFB, Alabama
  • More Info: ACSC Website
• Space Force Command and Staff College (USSFCSC)
  • Availability to be determined annually via MARADMIN.
  • More Info: USSFCSC Website

Foreign Professional Military Education (FPME)

• Purpose: The CPIB also selects a limited number of officers to attend the intermediate-level staff colleges of allied and partner nations. These are highly competitive billets that provide a unique opportunity for cultural immersion and relationship-building.
• JPME Policy Note: As of MARADMIN 553/24, Foreign PME no longer grants Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) Phase I credit. Officers attending FPME must complete JPME I via a separate, accredited program to be considered JPME I complete.
• Available Countries: The list of available FPME billets is published annually in the CPIB MARADMIN.

COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS FELLOWSHIPS (CPIB)

The Commandant of the Marine Corps (CMC) Fellowships are a portfolio of highly competitive, one-year assignments that provide officers with unique strategic experience at federal agencies, corporate headquarters, and academic institutions. These programs are designed to broaden an officer's perspective and develop their expertise in specialized, non-military fields.

Officers are selected for these fellowships through the Commandant's Professional Intermediate-Level Education Board (CPIB).

Key Policy & Service Obligation

• PME Credit: CMC Fellowships grant the equivalent of Service PME credit for Intermediate-Level School (ILS).
• JPME Credit: These fellowships do not grant Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) credit.
• Service Obligation: Selection for and participation in a CMC Fellowship incurs a three-year service obligation following completion of the program.

Available Fellowships (Subject to Change)

The list of available fellowships is subject to change each year and is published in the annual CPIB MARADMIN. The fellowships are generally grouped into the following categories:

• Technical & Intelligence Fellowships
  • Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) - An assignment providing insight into cutting-edge defense technology and research.
  • National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) - A fellowship focused on geospatial intelligence and its application to national security.
  • University of Southern Mississippi - Eligibility: Open to 0202 PMOS only.
• Corporate & Logistics Fellowships
  • Logistics Fellows, Penn State - An academic and practical fellowship focused on supply chain management and logistics theory.
  • Federal Express (FedEx) - A corporate fellowship providing hands-on experience with one of the world's leading logistics companies.
  • Apple Inc. - A corporate fellowship focused on global supply chain, marketing, and corporate strategy.
  • Morgan Stanley - A corporate fellowship in the financial services industry.
  • Dominion Energy - A corporate fellowship focused on the energy sector and critical infrastructure.
• Legal & Judicial Fellowships
  • Eligibility: These fellowships are restricted to officers with a 4402 PMOS (Judge Advocate).
  • Judicial Clerkship, Navy-Marine Corps Court of Criminal Appeals (NMCCA)
  • U.S. Attorney's Office, Eastern District of Virginia
  • Office of the Federal Defender
• Strategic & International Affairs Fellowships
  • International Security Center, Notre Dame
  • Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies

Application & Submission

• Application Process: Interested officers must indicate their fellowship preferences on the main CPIB questionnaire.
• Additional Requirements: Some fellowships may require a separate letter of intent or other specific documentation as detailed in the annual CPIB MARADMIN.

Naval Postgraduate School (NPS)

The Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) provides high-quality, defense-focused graduate education to U.S. military officers. Selection for an NPS curriculum is a strategic investment by the Marine Corps to develop officers with advanced expertise.

Officers are selected for NPS programs through the Commandant's Education Board (CEB). Upon graduation, officers receive an Additional MOS (AMOS) and are assigned to a mandatory follow-on utilization tour.

Program Length & Service Obligation

Accepting orders to an NPS program is a significant commitment. All selected officers will incur a service obligation that runs concurrently with any existing obligations. You cannot separate from the Marine Corps until all forms of obligated service are satisfied.

• Official Policy: Per MCO 1524.1, educational programs lasting longer than 12 months incur a service obligation capped at 48 months of active-duty service upon completion of the degree.

Application Process: A Two-Step Requirement

Applying for NPS is a two-step process. You must be selected by the Marine Corps board and be accepted by the university.

1. Apply to the Commandant's Education Board (CEB): This is the official application for the Marine Corps program. You must indicate your NPS curriculum preferences on the main CEB questionnaire.
2. Apply to the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS): This is the academic application to the university. It is highly recommended that you complete the NPS Online Application concurrently with your board application to verify you meet the academic prerequisites.

Available Curricula & Eligibility

The specific curricula available are published annually in the CEB MARADMIN.

• Common Curricula: 8824 (Operations Analysis), 8825 (Manpower Systems), 8850 (Computer Science).
• Restricted Curricula:
  • 8844 (Financial Management): Primarily for 3404 PMOS officers.
  • 8866 (Space Systems): Primary curriculum for 1706 officers.
  • 8870 (Special Operations): Limited to 0370 PMOS officers.
• Ineligible: 4402 PMOS (Judge Advocate) officers are not eligible.

Official Resources & Links

• NPS Marine Corps Student Portal
• Download the NPS Graduate Programs Menu PDF

AIR FORCE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (AFIT)

Program Overview

The Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) provides defense-focused graduate education in highly technical and scientific fields. Selection for an AFIT curriculum is a strategic investment by the Marine Corps to develop officers with specialized engineering and environmental management expertise.

Officers are selected for AFIT programs through the Commandant's Education Board (CEB). Upon graduation, officers receive an Additional MOS (AMOS) and are assigned to a mandatory follow-on utilization tour.

Program Length & Service Obligation

Accepting orders to an AFIT program is a significant commitment. All selected officers will incur a service obligation that runs concurrently with any existing obligations. You cannot separate from the Marine Corps until all forms of obligated service are satisfied.

• Tuition Cap: The Marine Corps has established a tuition cap of $20,000 per year for officers attending AFIT.

Application Process: A Two-Step Requirement

Applying for AFIT is a two-step process. You must be selected by the Marine Corps board and be accepted by the university.

• Step 1: Apply to the Commandant's Education Board (CEB): This is the official application for the Marine Corps program. You must indicate your AFIT curriculum preferences on the main CEB questionnaire.
• Step 2: Apply to the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT): This is the academic application to the university. It is highly recommended that you complete the AFIT online application concurrently with your board application to verify you meet the academic prerequisites.

Available Curricula & Eligibility

The specific curricula available are published annually in the CEB MARADMIN.

• 8820 - Aeronautical Engineering:
  • Focus: Advanced study in aircraft and missile design, aerodynamics, and propulsion.
  • Eligibility: This curriculum is restricted to officers with a 75XX PMOS.
  • More Info: AFIT Aeronautical Engineering Program
• 8831 - Engineering Management:
  • Focus: A multi-disciplinary program that blends engineering, environmental sciences, and management.
  • More Info: AFIT Engineering Management Program

Civilian Institutions Program (ADP)

The Civilian Institutions Program provides an opportunity for officers to earn a fully-funded master's degree from a civilian university of their choice. This program is designed to develop officers with specialized expertise in either Education or History to fill critical billets within the Marine Corps.

Officers are selected for this program through the Commandant's Education Board (CEB). Upon graduation, officers will receive the corresponding Additional MOS (AMOS) and be assigned to a mandatory follow-on utilization tour.

Available Curricula

The ADP offers two distinct master's degree tracks:

• 8802 - Education: For officers who will serve as instructors at formal schools.
• 8878 - History: For officers who will serve as instructors at the U.S. Naval Academy or as historians.

Program Length, Funding, & Service Obligation

• Program Length: Officers are authorized up to 24 months of resident schooling to complete their degree.
• Funding: Marine Corps University provides funding up to $19,500 per year. Any tuition costs exceeding this amount must be paid by the officer.
• Service Obligation: This program incurs a 3-year service obligation upon completion of the degree, which is served concurrently with a mandatory utilization tour.

Application & Submission Procedures

1. Complete the CEB Questionnaire: Indicate your preference for either the 8802 or 8878 curriculum on the main CEB questionnaire.
2. Prepare a Letter of Intent: Applicants for both tracks must compose a formal Letter of Intent. Your letter must include:
   • Your previous education and training experience.
   • Your desired focus of study (for 8802) or area of historical study (for 8878).
   • Three prospective universities you are considering.
   • Download the 8802/8878 Letter of Intent Template
3. Submit as an Upload: Attach your signed Letter of Intent to your CEB questionnaire as a single PDF file, labeled appropriately (e.g., `edipi_8802_lastname.pdf`).

San Diego State University (SDSU) Graduate Program

Program Overview

The San Diego State University (SDSU) program is a specialized graduate education opportunity for officers in the 4502 Communication Strategy and Operations (CommStrat) community. The program is designed to create subject matter experts in strategic communication, media analysis, and public relations theory.

Selected officers will earn a Master's degree in Mass Communication and Media Studies from SDSU. This fully-funded program equips CommStrat officers with the strategic analytic skills required to serve as senior counselors to commanders and to plan, implement, and measure the effectiveness of complex public affairs programs.

Officers are selected for the SDSU program through the Commandant's Education Board (CEB).

Program Length & Service Obligation

Accepting orders to the SDSU program is a significant commitment. All selected officers will incur a service obligation that runs concurrently with any existing obligations.

• Standard Program Length: Approximately 18-24 months of resident academic training.
• Utilization Tour: Following graduation, officers will serve a mandatory 3-year utilization tour in a 4505 (Communication Strategist) billet.
• Total Service Obligation: Approximately 5 years from the start of the program until the completion of the utilization tour.

Eligibility & Application Process

• Eligibility: This program is restricted to officers with a 4502 PMOS. Applicants must have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.9.
• Application Process:
  1. Apply to the CEB: Interested officers must indicate their preference for the SDSU program on the main CEB questionnaire.
  2. University Application: Unlike other GEPs, applications to SDSU are submitted after an officer has been selected by the Marine Corps board. MMOA-3 will provide selected officers with further instructions for the university application process.

Official Resources & Links

• SDSU Graduate Program Website: JMS Graduate Program

ADVANCED CIVILIAN SCHOOLS PROGRAM (ACSP)

The Advanced Civilian Schools Program (ACSP) provides an opportunity for Marine officers to attend a civilian university as a resident student to complete a master's degree of their choice. This program allows officers to pursue advanced education while maintaining their career progression.

Officers are selected for ACSP through the Commandant's Education Board (CEB). While the area of study is at the officer's discretion, participants are highly encouraged to pursue research topics of interest to the Marine Corps.

Funding & Service Obligation

ACSP is a partially-funded education program with a unique service obligation.

• Funding Model: Participants will receive their regular pay and allowances. However, all academic costs—including tuition, application fees, and textbooks—are at the officer's expense.
• Service Obligation: Officers accepting orders to ACSP incur a three-month active-duty service obligation for every one month of participation. A standard 12-month program incurs a 36-month (3-year) service obligation, which runs concurrently with any other existing obligations.
• Utilization: Unlike fully-funded graduate programs, ACSP does not require a mandatory follow-on utilization tour.

Core Eligibility Requirements

• Grade: First Lieutenant through Major.
• Degree: Must possess a baccalaureate degree.
• University Acceptance: Applicants must submit proof of acceptance as a fully qualified graduate student from their chosen university.
• GRE Scores: Applicants are required to have current GRE scores.
• Program Length: The program of study cannot exceed 12 months.
• Ineligibility: Officers who have previously participated in other full-time, Marine Corps funded graduate education programs (e.g., GEP, SEP, ADP) are not eligible.

Application & Submission Procedures

1. Secure University Acceptance: You must first gain acceptance into a qualifying master's degree program at a civilian university.
2. Complete the Board Questionnaire: Indicate your preference for ACSP on the main CEB questionnaire (CCLEB or CPIB) and upload your application package as a single PDF.
   • Download the ACSP Application Template
   • Your package must include your university acceptance letter, current GRE scores, and any other documents required by the current CEB MARADMIN.
3. Submit Your Package:
   • File Name: `edipi_ACSP_lastname.pdf`

REGIONAL AFFAIRS OFFICER (RAO) PROGRAM

The Regional Affairs Officer (RAO) program develops field-grade officers with deep regional expertise, preparing them to serve in key planning and security cooperation billets on combatant command, joint, and service staffs. The RAO program is a critical component of the Marine Corps' International Affairs Program (IAP).

Officers are selected for the RAO program through the Commandant's Professional Intermediate-Level Education Board (CPIB). While MMOA-3 facilitates the selection board, the IAP is managed by the Strategy and Plans Division (PLU).

Core Eligibility Requirements

Officers interested in the RAO program must meet the following criteria as outlined in the current CPIB MARADMIN:

• Grade: Must be a Major or Major (select).
• Time in Service: Must have between 9 and 15 years of commissioned service by the date specified in the MARADMIN.

Application & Submission Procedures

• Complete the CPIB Questionnaire: Indicate your preference for the RAO program on the main CPIB questionnaire.
• Prepare a Letter of Interest: You must compose a formal Letter of Interest that details your qualifications and motivation. The letter must highlight:
  • Previous planning experience with partner nations.
  • Any personal or professional regional exposure.
  • Your specific desire to serve as a RAO.
  • Your regional preferences.
  • Download the FAO/RAO Letter of Interest Template
• Submit as an Upload: Attach your signed Letter of Interest to your CPIB questionnaire as a single PDF file, labeled exactly as `edipi_RAO_lastname.pdf`.

Program Information & Resources

For detailed information about the career path, training pipeline, and specific requirements of the International Affairs Program, please consult the official program manager.

• Authoritative Source: P&O International Affairs Program Website
• Application Resources: P&O International Affairs Program Resources

Olmsted Scholar Program (OSP)

The Olmsted Scholar Program (OSP) is one of the most prestigious and competitive strategic leader development programs in the U.S. military. It provides selected officers an unsurpassed opportunity to achieve fluency in a foreign language while pursuing graduate studies at an overseas university. The program is designed to create a cadre of officers with deep cultural and linguistic expertise, preparing them for future service in positions of great responsibility.

The selection process is a two-phased effort:

• Phase 1 (Nomination): The Commandant's Education Board (CEB), encompassing both the CCLEB and CPIB, nominates a small number of top-performing officers for further consideration.
• Phase 2 (Selection): The Olmsted Foundation evaluates the nominees, conducts interviews, and makes the final selections.

Core Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for nomination by the CEB, officers must meet the following criteria:

• Time in Service: Must have no more than 13 years and 6 months of total federal service by the date specified in the MARADMIN.
• PMOS: Limited to specific PMOSs as determined by the Foundation and listed in the current CEB MARADMINs.
• DLAB Score: Must have a minimum Defense Language Aptitude Battery (DLAB) score of 95.

For a full list of detailed eligibility requirements, applicants must review the official Olmsted Foundation Eligibility Page.

Application & Selection Process

Phase 1: CEB Nomination

1. Complete the Board Questionnaire: Indicate your preference for the OSP on your respective board questionnaire (either the CCLEB for Captains or the CPIB for Majors).
2. Submit Initial Application: Prepare your initial OSP package as required by the MARADMIN, which typically includes a letter of interest and proof of DLAB score. Use the OSP Initial Application Template.
3. Upload Package: Attach your initial application to your board questionnaire as a single PDF, labeled `edipi_OSP_lastname.pdf`.

Phase 2: Olmsted Foundation Selection

If nominated, you will be notified by MMOA-3. You must then act quickly to submit a more detailed final application package directly to the Olmsted Foundation using the OSP Final Application Template. The Foundation will conduct interviews and make final selections in the spring.

Note: Officers nominated for the OSP but not selected by the Foundation will be automatically slated to other PME or graduate education opportunities by MMOA.

Program Information & Resources

• Authoritative Source: The Olmsted Foundation Official Website
• Submission of Final Package (Phase 2): Final application packages are submitted directly to the board via smb_mmoa_grad_edu@usmc.mil.

The Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School (TJAGLCS)

The Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School (TJAGLCS) offers a graduate-level legal education program for active-duty Judge Advocates. The school is located at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia, and provides an opportunity for Marine Corps Judge Advocates to earn a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree in various legal disciplines.

This program is designed to create subject matter experts in specialized areas of law to meet the complex legal needs of the Marine Corps. Officers are selected for TJAGLCS through the Commandant's Education Board (CEB).

Program Length & Service Obligation

Accepting orders to TJAGLCS is a significant commitment. All selected officers will incur a service obligation that runs concurrently with any existing obligations.

• Official Policy: Per MCO 1524.1, educational programs lasting 12 months or less incur a 36-month active-duty service obligation upon completion.

Eligibility & Application

• Eligibility: The TJAGLCS program is restricted to active-duty officers with a 4402 PMOS (Judge Advocate), typically in the grades of Captain and Major.
• Application Process: Officers interested in this program must indicate their preference on the main Commandant's Education Board (CEB) questionnaire during the annual application window.

Official Resources & Links

• TJAGLCS Official Website: https://tjaglcs.army.mil/

resident professional military education (PME)

This is the foundational program of the CCLEB, designed to select First Lieutenants and Captains to attend their career-level school in a resident status.

U.S. Marine Corps PME

• Expeditionary Warfare School (EWS)
  • Location: Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia
  • Duration: 41 weeks
  • Purpose: EWS is the Marine Corps' primary resident career-level school. The curriculum prepares company-grade officers to lead in complex naval expeditionary environments by instilling a maneuver warfare mindset and enhancing their ability to employ the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF).
  • More Info: Official EWS Website

U.S. Army Sister-Service PME

Captains Career Courses (CCC):

• Air Defense Artillery (ADACCC) Website
• Cyber (CCCC) Website
• Engineer (ECCC) Website
• Field Artillery (FACCC) Website
• Logistics (LOG-C3) Website
• Maneuver (MCCC) Website
• Military Police (MPCCC) Website

Important Eligibility Note on Non-Resident PME

Your current non-resident PME status directly impacts your eligibility for programs screened on the CCLEB.

• EWS Distance Education Program (EWSDEP): Completion of the EWSDEP DOES NOT remove you from consideration for resident PME. You remain eligible to be screened for and attend resident EWS or a sister-service equivalent.
• EWS Blended Seminar Program (EWSBSP): Officers enrolled in or who have completed the EWS Blended Seminar Program will not be eligible for resident PME programs. However, they will remain eligible for Graduate Education Programs (e.g., NPS, AFIT, FAO, Olmsted Scholar, etc.).

Naval Postgraduate School (NPS)

The Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) provides high-quality, defense-focused graduate education to U.S. military officers. Selection for an NPS curriculum is a strategic investment by the Marine Corps to develop officers with advanced expertise.

Officers are selected for NPS programs through the Commandant's Education Board (CEB). Upon graduation, officers receive an Additional MOS (AMOS) and are assigned to a mandatory follow-on utilization tour.

Program Length & Service Obligation

Accepting orders to an NPS program is a significant commitment. All selected officers will incur a service obligation that runs concurrently with any existing obligations. You cannot separate from the Marine Corps until all forms of obligated service are satisfied.

• Official Policy: Per MCO 1524.1, educational programs lasting longer than 12 months incur a service obligation capped at 48 months of active-duty service upon completion of the degree.

Application Process: A Two-Step Requirement

Applying for NPS is a two-step process. You must be selected by the Marine Corps board and be accepted by the university.

1. Apply to the Commandant's Education Board (CEB): This is the official application for the Marine Corps program. You must indicate your NPS curriculum preferences on the main CEB questionnaire.
2. Apply to the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS): This is the academic application to the university. It is highly recommended that you complete the NPS Online Application concurrently with your board application to verify you meet the academic prerequisites.

Available Curricula & Eligibility

The specific curricula available are published annually in the CEB MARADMIN.

• Common Curricula: 8824 (Operations Analysis), 8825 (Manpower Systems), 8850 (Computer Science).
• Restricted Curricula:
  • 8844 (Financial Management): Primarily for 3404 PMOS officers.
  • 8866 (Space Systems): Primary curriculum for 1706 officers.
  • 8870 (Special Operations): Limited to 0370 PMOS officers.
• Ineligible: 4402 PMOS (Judge Advocate) officers are not eligible.

Official Resources & Links

• NPS Marine Corps Student Portal
• Download the NPS Graduate Programs Menu PDF

AIR FORCE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (AFIT)

Program Overview

The Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) provides defense-focused graduate education in highly technical and scientific fields. Selection for an AFIT curriculum is a strategic investment by the Marine Corps to develop officers with specialized engineering and environmental management expertise.

Officers are selected for AFIT programs through the Commandant's Education Board (CEB). Upon graduation, officers receive an Additional MOS (AMOS) and are assigned to a mandatory follow-on utilization tour.

Program Length & Service Obligation

Accepting orders to an AFIT program is a significant commitment. All selected officers will incur a service obligation that runs concurrently with any existing obligations. You cannot separate from the Marine Corps until all forms of obligated service are satisfied.

• Tuition Cap: The Marine Corps has established a tuition cap of $20,000 per year for officers attending AFIT.

Application Process: A Two-Step Requirement

Applying for AFIT is a two-step process. You must be selected by the Marine Corps board and be accepted by the university.

• Step 1: Apply to the Commandant's Education Board (CEB): This is the official application for the Marine Corps program. You must indicate your AFIT curriculum preferences on the main CEB questionnaire.
• Step 2: Apply to the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT): This is the academic application to the university. It is highly recommended that you complete the AFIT online application concurrently with your board application to verify you meet the academic prerequisites.

Available Curricula & Eligibility

The specific curricula available are published annually in the CEB MARADMIN.

• 8820 - Aeronautical Engineering:
  • Focus: Advanced study in aircraft and missile design, aerodynamics, and propulsion.
  • Eligibility: This curriculum is restricted to officers with a 75XX PMOS.
  • More Info: AFIT Aeronautical Engineering Program
• 8831 - Engineering Management:
  • Focus: A multi-disciplinary program that blends engineering, environmental sciences, and management.
  • More Info: AFIT Engineering Management Program

Civilian Institutions Program (ADP)

The Civilian Institutions Program provides an opportunity for officers to earn a fully-funded master's degree from a civilian university of their choice. This program is designed to develop officers with specialized expertise in either Education or History to fill critical billets within the Marine Corps.

Officers are selected for this program through the Commandant's Education Board (CEB). Upon graduation, officers will receive the corresponding Additional MOS (AMOS) and be assigned to a mandatory follow-on utilization tour.

Available Curricula

The ADP offers two distinct master's degree tracks:

• 8802 - Education: For officers who will serve as instructors at formal schools.
• 8878 - History: For officers who will serve as instructors at the U.S. Naval Academy or as historians.

Program Length, Funding, & Service Obligation

• Program Length: Officers are authorized up to 24 months of resident schooling to complete their degree.
• Funding: Marine Corps University provides funding up to $19,500 per year. Any tuition costs exceeding this amount must be paid by the officer.
• Service Obligation: This program incurs a 3-year service obligation upon completion of the degree, which is served concurrently with a mandatory utilization tour.

Application & Submission Procedures

1. Complete the CEB Questionnaire: Indicate your preference for either the 8802 or 8878 curriculum on the main CEB questionnaire.
2. Prepare a Letter of Intent: Applicants for both tracks must compose a formal Letter of Intent. Your letter must include:
   • Your previous education and training experience.
   • Your desired focus of study (for 8802) or area of historical study (for 8878).
   • Three prospective universities you are considering.
   • Download the 8802/8878 Letter of Intent Template
3. Submit as an Upload: Attach your signed Letter of Intent to your CEB questionnaire as a single PDF file, labeled appropriately (e.g., `edipi_8802_lastname.pdf`).

San Diego State University (SDSU) Graduate Program

Program Overview

The San Diego State University (SDSU) program is a specialized graduate education opportunity for officers in the 4502 Communication Strategy and Operations (CommStrat) community. The program is designed to create subject matter experts in strategic communication, media analysis, and public relations theory.

Selected officers will earn a Master's degree in Mass Communication and Media Studies from SDSU. This fully-funded program equips CommStrat officers with the strategic analytic skills required to serve as senior counselors to commanders and to plan, implement, and measure the effectiveness of complex public affairs programs.

Officers are selected for the SDSU program through the Commandant's Education Board (CEB).

Program Length & Service Obligation

Accepting orders to the SDSU program is a significant commitment. All selected officers will incur a service obligation that runs concurrently with any existing obligations.

• Standard Program Length: Approximately 18-24 months of resident academic training.
• Utilization Tour: Following graduation, officers will serve a mandatory 3-year utilization tour in a 4505 (Communication Strategist) billet.
• Total Service Obligation: Approximately 5 years from the start of the program until the completion of the utilization tour.

Eligibility & Application Process

• Eligibility: This program is restricted to officers with a 4502 PMOS. Applicants must have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.9.
• Application Process:
  1. Apply to the CEB: Interested officers must indicate their preference for the SDSU program on the main CEB questionnaire.
  2. University Application: Unlike other GEPs, applications to SDSU are submitted after an officer has been selected by the Marine Corps board. MMOA-3 will provide selected officers with further instructions for the university application process.

Official Resources & Links

• SDSU Graduate Program Website: JMS Graduate Program

ADVANCED CIVILIAN SCHOOLS PROGRAM (ACSP)

The Advanced Civilian Schools Program (ACSP) provides an opportunity for Marine officers to attend a civilian university as a resident student to complete a master's degree of their choice. This program allows officers to pursue advanced education while maintaining their career progression.

Officers are selected for ACSP through the Commandant's Education Board (CEB). While the area of study is at the officer's discretion, participants are highly encouraged to pursue research topics of interest to the Marine Corps.

Funding & Service Obligation

ACSP is a partially-funded education program with a unique service obligation.

• Funding Model: Participants will receive their regular pay and allowances. However, all academic costs—including tuition, application fees, and textbooks—are at the officer's expense.
• Service Obligation: Officers accepting orders to ACSP incur a three-month active-duty service obligation for every one month of participation. A standard 12-month program incurs a 36-month (3-year) service obligation, which runs concurrently with any other existing obligations.
• Utilization: Unlike fully-funded graduate programs, ACSP does not require a mandatory follow-on utilization tour.

Core Eligibility Requirements

• Grade: First Lieutenant through Major.
• Degree: Must possess a baccalaureate degree.
• University Acceptance: Applicants must submit proof of acceptance as a fully qualified graduate student from their chosen university.
• GRE Scores: Applicants are required to have current GRE scores.
• Program Length: The program of study cannot exceed 12 months.
• Ineligibility: Officers who have previously participated in other full-time, Marine Corps funded graduate education programs (e.g., GEP, SEP, ADP) are not eligible.

Application & Submission Procedures

1. Secure University Acceptance: You must first gain acceptance into a qualifying master's degree program at a civilian university.
2. Complete the Board Questionnaire: Indicate your preference for ACSP on the main CEB questionnaire (CCLEB or CPIB) and upload your application package as a single PDF.
   • Download the ACSP Application Template
   • Your package must include your university acceptance letter, current GRE scores, and any other documents required by the current CEB MARADMIN.
3. Submit Your Package:
   • File Name: `edipi_ACSP_lastname.pdf`

International Affairs Program (IAP) - Foreign Area Officer (FAO)

The CCLEB screens and selects qualified company-grade officers for the Foreign Area Officer (FAO) program. The IAP is designed to create a cadre of officers with deep regional, linguistic, and cultural expertise who can support the Marine Corps' security cooperation and attaché requirements around the globe.

While MMOA-3 facilitates the selection board, the IAP is managed by the Strategy and Plans Division (PLU).

Eligibility & Application Requirements

Officers interested in the FAO program must meet the following criteria as outlined in the current CCLEB MARADMIN:

• Time in Service: Must have less than 11 years of commissioned service by the date specified in the MARADMIN.
• DLAB Score: Must submit a current Defense Language Aptitude Battery (DLAB) score.
• Letter of Interest: Must submit a formal Letter of Interest that includes any existing Defense Language Proficiency Test (DLPT) scores and a statement detailing your interest in the program, including international experience, language exposure, and regional preferences.

Application & Submission Procedures

1. Complete the CCLEB Questionnaire: Indicate your preference for the FAO program on the main CCLEB questionnaire.
2. Prepare Your Letter of Interest: Use the official template to draft your letter.
3. Submit as an Upload: Attach your signed Letter of Interest and proof of DLAB score to your CCLEB questionnaire as a single PDF file, labeled exactly as `edipi_FAO_lastname.pdf`.

Program Information & Resources

For detailed information about the career path, training pipeline, and specific requirements of the International Affairs Program, please consult the official program manager.

• Authoritative Source: P&O International Affairs Program Website
• Program Overview: IAP Linked Resources Page

Olmsted Scholar Program (OSP)

The Olmsted Scholar Program (OSP) is one of the most prestigious and competitive strategic leader development programs in the U.S. military. It provides selected officers an unsurpassed opportunity to achieve fluency in a foreign language while pursuing graduate studies at an overseas university. The program is designed to create a cadre of officers with deep cultural and linguistic expertise, preparing them for future service in positions of great responsibility.

The selection process is a two-phased effort:

• Phase 1 (Nomination): The Commandant's Education Board (CEB), encompassing both the CCLEB and CPIB, nominates a small number of top-performing officers for further consideration.
• Phase 2 (Selection): The Olmsted Foundation evaluates the nominees, conducts interviews, and makes the final selections.

Core Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for nomination by the CEB, officers must meet the following criteria:

• Time in Service: Must have no more than 13 years and 6 months of total federal service by the date specified in the MARADMIN.
• PMOS: Limited to specific PMOSs as determined by the Foundation and listed in the current CEB MARADMINs.
• DLAB Score: Must have a minimum Defense Language Aptitude Battery (DLAB) score of 95.

For a full list of detailed eligibility requirements, applicants must review the official Olmsted Foundation Eligibility Page.

Application & Selection Process

Phase 1: CEB Nomination

1. Complete the Board Questionnaire: Indicate your preference for the OSP on your respective board questionnaire (either the CCLEB for Captains or the CPIB for Majors).
2. Submit Initial Application: Prepare your initial OSP package as required by the MARADMIN, which typically includes a letter of interest and proof of DLAB score. Use the OSP Initial Application Template.
3. Upload Package: Attach your initial application to your board questionnaire as a single PDF, labeled `edipi_OSP_lastname.pdf`.

Phase 2: Olmsted Foundation Selection

If nominated, you will be notified by MMOA-3. You must then act quickly to submit a more detailed final application package directly to the Olmsted Foundation using the OSP Final Application Template. The Foundation will conduct interviews and make final selections in the spring.

Note: Officers nominated for the OSP but not selected by the Foundation will be automatically slated to other PME or graduate education opportunities by MMOA.

Program Information & Resources

• Authoritative Source: The Olmsted Foundation Official Website
• Submission of Final Package (Phase 2): Final application packages are submitted directly to the board via smb_mmoa_grad_edu@usmc.mil.

Junior Officer Intelligence Programs

The Junior Officer Intelligence Programs are a suite of competitive, career-broadening opportunities designed to develop deep technical and strategic expertise within the intelligence community. These programs provide advanced education and hands-on experience at the national-intelligence level.

Officers are selected for these programs through the Commandant's Education Board (CEB). Each program has unique eligibility criteria and application requirements.

Application & Submission Procedures

The application process for all three intelligence programs is centralized through the CEB.

1. Complete the CEB Questionnaire: Indicate your preference for one or more of the intelligence programs on the main CEB questionnaire. Eligible officers may apply to one or all programs.
2. Prepare the Application Package: A single, consolidated application is used for all three programs. You must also complete a Page 11 entry for your OMPF.
   • Download the JOSIP/JOCCP/JOGP Application Template
   • Download the Page 11 Template
3. Submit as an Upload: Attach your completed application package to the CEB questionnaire as a single PDF file, labeled according to the program you are applying for (e.g., `edipi_JOSIP_lastname.pdf`).

Program Details & Eligibility

1. Junior Officer Strategic Intelligence Program (JOSIP)
   • Focus: A graduate-level program that provides an in-depth understanding of the entire intelligence enterprise.
   • Institution: National Intelligence University (NIU).
   • Eligibility: Restricted to officers with a 02XX PMOS.
   • More Info: JOSIP Program Page
2. Junior Officer Cryptologic Career Program (JOCCP)
   • Focus: A fellowship that provides deep technical and operational expertise in the cryptologic field.
   • Institution: National Intelligence University (NIU).
   • Eligibility: Open to officers with a 02XX or 1702 PMOS.
   • More Info: This is a fellowship program hosted at NIU. Applicants should complete the NIU Application in addition to the standard package.
3. Junior Officer Geospatial Intelligence Program (JOGP)
   • Focus: A military service intern program that provides hands-on experience and training in the geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) field.
   • Institution: National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA).
   • Eligibility: Restricted to officers with a 02XX PMOS.
   • More Info: NGA Military Career Opportunities

The Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School (TJAGLCS)

The Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School (TJAGLCS) offers a graduate-level legal education program for active-duty Judge Advocates. The school is located at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia, and provides an opportunity for Marine Corps Judge Advocates to earn a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree in various legal disciplines.

This program is designed to create subject matter experts in specialized areas of law to meet the complex legal needs of the Marine Corps. Officers are selected for TJAGLCS through the Commandant's Education Board (CEB).

Program Length & Service Obligation

Accepting orders to TJAGLCS is a significant commitment. All selected officers will incur a service obligation that runs concurrently with any existing obligations.

• Official Policy: Per MCO 1524.1, educational programs lasting 12 months or less incur a 36-month active-duty service obligation upon completion.

Eligibility & Application

• Eligibility: The TJAGLCS program is restricted to active-duty officers with a 4402 PMOS (Judge Advocate), typically in the grades of Captain and Major.
• Application Process: Officers interested in this program must indicate their preference on the main Commandant's Education Board (CEB) questionnaire during the annual application window.

Official Resources & Links

• TJAGLCS Official Website: https://tjaglcs.army.mil/