How to bid on Marine Corps University Academic Support Services for the DEPT of Defense

What the agency is buying

The Department of Defense, specifically the Marine Corps, is seeking academic support services for the Marine Corps University's Center for Distance Education (CDET) Distance Professional Military Education (DPME) program. This includes program management, instructional services, curriculum development, editing, multimedia, instructional technology, administrative support, and student support.

This is a significant opportunity for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB), as the contract is a 100% set-aside. It is planned as a single-award, five-year Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract with an estimated ceiling of about $153 million. The work will be performed at CDET Headquarters in Quantico, Virginia, and seven regional locations across the United States, Hawaii, and Okinawa.

Key dates and deadlines

The solicitation was published on August 07, 2026. All responses must be submitted by the deadline of August 24, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET. The government intends to award this contract on an all-or-none basis. The ordering period for the contract is estimated to begin in the third quarter of 2027.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is specifically for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB) with expertise in educational support, curriculum development, instructional technology, and related administrative services. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this requirement is 611710, which covers Educational Support Services.

Firms with experience in providing comprehensive academic and program management support to military or government educational institutions will find this particularly suitable. The scope requires a contractor capable of managing services across multiple locations, including international sites.

How to respond

To access the solicitation and any amendments, you must continually view the website where the original source is posted. You may need a free account to view documents, though for some bids, this is not required.

Before submitting a quote, ensure your company is registered with the System for Award Management (SAM) website and that your annual representations and certifications are current. You must also have a Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code and be registered with Wide Area Workflow (WAWF).

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Given this is a best-value award under FAR Part 12 (commercial contracting) using FAR Part 15 (contracting by negotiation), focus on demonstrating your firm's capability to deliver high-quality services at a competitive price. Clearly articulate your understanding of the Marine Corps University's distance education program needs.

Highlight your experience with similar large-scale, multi-location academic support contracts, especially those involving military education. Emphasize your firm's ability to manage complex programs, develop robust curricula, and provide effective instructional and technological support. Ensure your proposal clearly addresses all aspects of the draft Performance Work Statement.