# NASA OSTEM vs. Pathways

## Graduating soon: test the hours, not just the GPA

NASA's program comparison includes a Pathways requirement to complete at least 480 work hours before finishing the degree or certificate. Use that published screen for this invented student; the specific vacancy may add requirements.

### Fictional availability before degree completion

| Possible schedule | Available hours | Difference from 480 |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 10 weeks × 40 hours | 400 | 80 short |
| 12 weeks × 40 hours | 480 | Meets the hours figure only |
| 12 weeks × 20 hours | 240 | 240 short |

## Your turn

Does changing a ten-week full-time plan to twelve weeks part-time solve the hours problem?

## Your answer

[Write your approach here.]

## For your own application

Put the actual degree-completion date and permitted work schedule beside the announcement before applying.

Return to the guide for the worked answer and source notes:
https://internshipdeadlines.com/guides/nasa-ostem-vs-pathways-internships