Project PATRIOTS

WANT TO BECOME A SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER — DEBT-FREE? THIS PROGRAM IS FOR YOU!

What is Project PATRIOTS?

A grant-funded opportunity (U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Programs) for qualified candidates to earn a BSEd from George Mason and be eligible for teacher licensure in special education at George Mason University — with full tuition and fellowships for:

• housing
• books
• transportation
• licensure exams

This project is for individuals who have completed their associates degree in education at a Virginia community college and are eligible to transfer to George Mason. Scholars commit to working in the field of special education for two years for every year of funding received.

Apply to be a Project PATRIOTS Scholar

Interested in applying? Apply here!

Project Patriots utilizes a two-stage admission process designed to holistically evaluate candidates’ readiness and commitment to the field of special education.  

Part 1: Written Response and Supplementary Materials
The first stage consists of a written response and the submission of three required supplementary materials. Candidates who successfully meet the criteria for this written and portfolio review will be invited to advance to the second stage of the admission process. Please have all of your documents in separate doc or pdf format.

• Written Response (2–3 pages, double-spaced)
  Applicants should introduce themselves and describe their motivation for pursuing a career in special education. In addition, candidates should explain how they learned about Project Patriots and how they envision the grant supporting their growth and success as a future educator.
  
  *Please note that we are asking for original writing from you. Any use of AI or other sources in your submission must be cited with a reference given. You will be asked to affirm this in your application package.
 
• Required Supplementary Materials
  1. Proof of admission to George Mason University or confirmation that the candidate has applied to the program
   
  2. At least one letter of recommendation from an individual who can speak to the candidate’s professionalism and commitment to the field (e.g., employer, supervisor, or community leader)
   

Once you have gathered all of your application materials, submit the entire package.

All applications will be reviewed, and successful candidates will be invited to Stage 2.

Part 2: Interview and “About Me” Presentation
Candidates who advance to the second stage will participate in a 20-minute in-person interview and deliver a 10-minute “About Me” presentation.

Just as a reminder, applicants must be accepted to George Mason University for enrollment in fall 2026 in order to be a Project PATRIOTS scholar.

Program Highlights

• 2-year, full-time program
• Primarily face-to-face daytime classes at Fairfax Campus
• 19 courses + internship to include concentration specific courses
• Simultaneously earn up to 12 credits towards an MEd

Why George Mason University?

• Highly ranked special education program
• Nationally and internationally recognized faculty
• Dedicated academic advisors
• Supportive student organization: EDSE Council
• Opportunities for research, volunteering, and campus life
• Early school-based placements
• Strong partnerships with local school divisions

Coursework Overview

What's Covered?

Project PATRIOTS funding includes:

• full tuition and fees for 4 semesters
• fellowships for housing, transportation, books, licensure exams
• summer conference travel between junior and senior year

Admission Requirements

To qualify for Project PATRIOTS:

• apply and be admitted to George Mason's Special Education Licensure program
• Successfully complete the application/admissions process for Project PATRIOTS
• Maintain program eligibility for continued funding
• Completed Associates degree in education or equivalent at Virginia community college

Fill out the interest form!