This subpart prescribes procedures for acquisition of temporary or intermittent services of students at institutions of higher learning for the purpose of providing technical support at defense research and development laboratories (10 U.S.C. 4143).

As used in this subpart—

(a) “Institution of higher learning” means any public or private post-secondary school, junior college, college, university, or other degree granting educational institution that—

(1) Is located in the United States or its outlying areas;

(2) Has an accredited education program approved by an appropriate accrediting body; and

(3) Offers a program of study at any level beyond high school.

(b) “Nonprofit organization” means any organization described by Section 501(c)(3) of Title 26 of the U.S.C. which is exempt from taxation under Section 501(a) of Title 26.

(c) “Student” means an individual enrolled (or accepted for enrollment) at an institution of higher learning before the term of the student technical support contract. The individual shall remain in good standing in a curriculum designed to lead to the granting of a recognized degree, during the term of the contract.

(d) “Technical support” means any scientific or engineering work in support of the mission of the DoD laboratory involved. It does not include administrative or clerical services.

Generally, agencies will acquire services of students at institutions of higher learning by contract between a nonprofit organization employing the student and the Government. When it is in the best interest of the Government, contracts may be made directly with students. These services are not subject to the requirements of FAR Part 19, FAR 13.003(b)(1), or DFARS Part 219. Award authority for these contracts is 10 U.S.C. 3204(a) and 10 U.S.C. 4143.

Contracts made directly with students are nonpersonal service contracts but shall include the clauses at FAR 52.232-3, Payments Under Personal Services Contracts, and FAR 52.249-12, Termination (Personal Services).