The Data Science Corps (DSC) grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation aims to strengthen the national data science infrastructure by engaging students in real-world data science projects. This program is designed to help students, including those from community colleges and Minority Serving Institutions, gain practical experience in data science. The goal is to prepare a workforce-ready group of data scientists who can effectively use data for decision-making in various community settings.
Who it's for: This grant is for organizations that can provide data science education and training to students, particularly undergraduates and grade 6-12 teachers and students. It targets institutions like community colleges, Minority Serving Institutions, and other emerging research institutions.
More details
Likely Disqualifiers
- Proposals not submitted through the Directorate for STEM Education, Division of Research on Learning in Formal and Informal Settings
- Proposals not involving real-world data science projects
- Lack of focus on broadening participation in STEM
- Proposals not addressing community-specific needs
- Proposals not engaging students in practical data science experiences
What You May Need
- Proposal submission through the Directorate for STEM Education
- Detailed project plan involving real-world data science projects
- Evidence of partnerships with communities or organizations
- Plan for engaging students in data science
- Budget proposal within the $800,000 - $1,200,000 range
- Documentation of institutional eligibility (e.g., Minority Serving Institution status)
- Letters of support from partner organizations or communities
- Description of how the project will broaden STEM participation
- Curriculum or training materials for data science education
Cautions
- Ensure proposals are submitted through the correct NSF directorate
- Focus on real-world applications and community engagement
- Align project goals with broadening STEM participation
- Be aware of the specific eligibility requirements for institutions
Generated from official source details for readability
Eligibility
Eligible Applicant Types
Additional Criteria
Eligible applicants include a wide range of institutions that can provide data science education and training. This includes community colleges, Minority Serving Institutions, and other emerging research institutions as defined in the CHIPS and Science Act. The program also supports grade 6-12 teachers and students, particularly in institutions located in EPSCoR jurisdictions.
Overview
This grant is for organizations that can provide data science education and training to students, particularly undergraduates and grade 6-12 teachers and students. It targets institutions like community colleges, Minority Serving Institutions, and other emerging research institutions.
Likely Disqualifiers
- Proposals not submitted through the Directorate for STEM Education, Division of Research on Learning in Formal and Informal Settings
- Proposals not involving real-world data science projects
- Lack of focus on broadening participation in STEM
- Proposals not addressing community-specific needs
- Proposals not engaging students in practical data science experiences
Use of Funds
Funds can be used to support data science education and training projects that engage students in real-world applications. This includes developing curriculum, facilitating partnerships with communities, and providing resources for practical data science experiences.
Total Program Funding
$10,000,000
Expected Awards
15
Cost Sharing
Not Required
Important Dates
- Posted
- Sep 15, 2026
- Archive Date
- Sep 16, 2026
- Est. Application Due (AI estimate)
- Winter 2026
- Est. Award Date (AI estimate)
- Spring 2027
Application Checklist
- Register and submit proposal through the Directorate for STEM Education
- Develop a comprehensive project plan
- Secure partnerships with relevant communities or organizations
- Prepare a detailed budget proposal
- Gather letters of support from partners
- Ensure alignment with STEM participation goals
- Compile documentation of institutional eligibility