MCO 1700.32A — Leadership Scholar Program (lsp)

MCO 1700.32A governs the Leadership Scholar Program, including eligibility, academic preparation, applications, and participation requirements.

Search MCO 1700.32A

  • Publication number: MCO 1700.32A
  • Title: LEADERSHIP SCHOLAR PROGRAM (LSP)
  • Date: 22 Apr 2026
  • Proponent: 01000 Military Personnel
  • Status: Current

View MCO 1700.32A on armypubs.army.mil


It covers eligibility, education, characterization of service, tuition and fees, screening, academic preparation, and college applications. The order requires documentation, interviews, application materials, and academic standards for selected applicants.

Applies to: The LSP is for transitioning Marines who will be entering college after their End of Active Service (EAS) or Reserve Component obligated service, and for Marines who are participating in the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program (MECEP) or the Staff Noncommissioned Officer Degree Completion Program (SNCODCP).

Topics covered

  • Leadership Scholar Program eligibility
  • Academic and application preparation
  • College and university applications
  • Tuition and fees
  • Characterization of service
  • Screening and documentation
  • Educational materials

Questions and answers

Who is eligible for the Leadership Scholar Program?

The LSP is for transitioning Marines who will be entering college after their End of Active Service (EAS) or Reserve Component obligated service, and for Marines who are participating in the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program (MECEP) or the Staff Noncommissioned Officer Degree Completion Program (SNCODCP). (paragraph 4)

When must transitioning applicants begin participating in the LSP?

Transitioning applicants must begin participation no later than 12 months prior to EAS and no earlier than two years prior to EAS. (paragraph 4)

What education is required for LSP eligibility?

Marines must be a high school graduate, earned a General Educational Development (GED), or possess the educational requirement for admissions to the educational institution. (paragraph 4)

What service-related conditions prohibit LSP participation?

Marines awarded non-judicial punishment or convicted by a court-martial in the previous 12 months are not authorized to participate in the LSP. (paragraph 4)

What academic standards may selected LSP applicants have to meet?

Maintain a grade point average of 3.75 or higher in all college coursework and earn no less than a grade of “B” in any course. (paragraph 4)

Ask Reggie.Bot a question about MCO 1700.32A