(a) Review of applications. Upon receipt, applications for the VMLRP will be reviewed for eligibility and completeness by the appropriate staff as determined by the Secretary. Incomplete or ineligible applications will not be processed or reviewed.

(b) Peer review.

(1) Applications for the VMLRP that are deemed eligible and complete will be referred to the VMLRP peer panel for peer review. In evaluating the application, reviewers are directed to consider the following components, as well as any other criteria identified in the RFA, and how they relate to the likelihood that the applicant will meet the terms and conditions of the VMLRP agreement, continue to serve in a veterinary shortage situation, or pursue a career in food supply veterinary medicine:

(i) Major or emphasis area(s) during formal post-secondary training (e.g., bachelors degree major, minor);

(ii) Major or emphasis area(s) during formal training for DVM/VMD degree;

(iii) Specialty training area/discipline (e.g., board certification or graduate degree);

(iv) Non-degree/non-board certification training or certifications (e.g., animal agrosecurity coursework and certifications);

(v) Applicant's personal statement;

(vi) Awards;

(vii) Letters or recommendation, if applicable; and

(viii) Other documentation or criteria, as specified in the RFA.

(2) Applicants will then be ranked based on their qualifications relative to the attributes of the shortage situation applied for.