One of the Cooperative Education Program's goals is to provide a valuable resource of candidates for potential employment with NASA Glenn; however, neither the Center nor the student is committed to employment after graduation. Students become eligible for noncompetitive conversion within 120 calendar days following graduation provided they:

• Complete the educational requirements of the qualifying educational institution

• Complete the work experiences necessary to qualify for the occupation and a career or career-conditional appointment

• Complete the minimum study-related work requirements in a pay status (640 hours, 16 weeks)

• Are recommended for employment by the Agency

• Meet United States citizenship requirements

The 120-day period commences upon the completion of all degree requirements and minimum study- related work hour requirements. Work performed following graduation and during the 120-day conversion period may not be counted towards meeting the minimum study-related work hours.

If converted noncompetitively, co-op students receive credit for work experience towards their 3-year period for career tenure. In addition, the qualification standards for the occupation under which students receive training in the Co-op Program will be used to determine the grade level for which they qualify.