JRCOSTEP Application

Congratulations! You have just completed the pre-screen questionnaire in order to be considered for an appointment as a Junior Commissioned Officer Student Training and Extern Program (JRCOSTEP) in the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps. Please read the information below carefully and follow the directions on how to submit your initial application packet for commissioning as a JRCOSTEP. If you have not yet completed the prescreen questionnaire and received a confirmation email please ensure that you take that important first step in the commissioning process here. If you are interested in also applying for SRCOSTEP please use the same application packet to apply for both programs (be sure to check “SRCOSTEP” on section 6 of the application) and check the due date chart to see if you are eligible. If you have questions on your SRCOSTEP eligibility please email us at costep@hhs.gov.

The COSTEP office is requesting that applicants submit complete applications. You can find the items that are required for a complete application below and it is suggested that this list be utilized as a checklist.

It should be noted that applications are reviewed for COSTEP opportunities constantly and having a complete application greatly enhances the student’s chance of being selected. If an incomplete application packet is received, depending on what documents are missing, it will either be returned to the applicant or reviewed by the selecting official potentially without the adequate information that is necessary for them to make a selection.

A complete JRCOSTEP application packet includes:

1. PHS-50 Application for Appointment as a Commissioned Officer in the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps . Be sure to download or print the Instructions for submitting a complete application packet.
2. PHS-1813 Reference Request for Applicants to the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps. Two (2) are required to be submitted in individual envelopes sealed and signed (both the form and the seal) by the individual that has completed the reference. At least one reference from a current/most recent supervisor is required (if applicable). These must be included in the completed application packet for commissioning as a JRCOSTEP. It is important to note that those also applying for SRCOSTEP must have four (4) references total.
3. Official transcript from all post-secondary educational institutions attended. Any education program that is currently being attended should provide the most current semester transcript that is available.
4. Current CV/resume
5. DD-2807-1 Report of Medical History Form and Cover sheet – Note: DO NOT HAVE A PHYSICIAN/PROVIDER COMPLETE THIS FORM. It must be completed and signed by the applicant.
6. HHS Credit Release
7. OF-306 Declaration for Federal employment
8. SF-1199A Direct Deposit Form or Voided Check
9. Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Election and Certificate (SGLI)
10. Copy of Naturalization Certificate (or other proof of U.S. Citizenship if born outside the U.S.).

For individuals currently serving or have previously served on active duty in a uniformed service other than the U.S. Public Health Service:

11. Copy of all DD 214s (member-4 copy) and/or all NGB 22s
12. Separation Orders (if applicable)

Send JRCOSTEP materials to:

Please allow at least 4 weeks between the time you mail your application materials and when you contact the Office of Commissioned Corps Operations, COSTEP Program, about the status of your application. Your application packet may be returned if it does not contain all applicable required materials listed above.

For questions about the application process please feel free to email us at costep@hhs.gov.