TS/SCI
Also known as
TS/SCI adds Sensitive Compartmented Information access to a Top Secret clearance. SCI is a classification for intelligence information that requires special handling and is compartmented so that access to one SCI program does not automatically grant access to another. SCI is primarily used by the intelligence community. TS/SCI is required for intelligence community contracts, signals intelligence programs, imagery analysis, cyber operations, and classified technology development. These contracts are among the most lucrative in government contracting, with limited competition due to the high barrier of cleared personnel and SCIF requirements.
Meaning in practice
Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information is a certification or eligibility designation that can change which opportunities you can pursue.
Where you’ll see it
You will see it in SAM, SBA guidance, representation and certification forms, and set-aside notices. Example: Tier 5 (T5) — SSBI with polygraph (CI or Full Scope).
Common confusion
People often confuse certification with a self-claim; some programs require verification or renewal.
What to do next
Confirm the eligibility standard and where the status is verified before you rely on it.
(TS/SCI) is a certification concept federal contractors and grant writers run into across solicitations, regulations, and award filings
No related questions are available yet.
Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information is a federal-contracting certification or socio-economic status. For example: Tier 5 (T5) — SSBI with polygraph (CI or Full Scope) Contractors qualifying under Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information can pursue opportunities specifically reserved for that category — but only after registration and verification through the relevant authority (SBA, VA, GSA, or the agency itself). The competitive advantage from a Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information certification is real, but conditional: it depends on the registration being current, the eligibility being maintained, and the work fitting within the certification's scope. Many small contractors leave Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information opportunities on the table because they assume the bar is too high or the administrative overhead too painful; in practice the largest barrier is usually the awareness gap, not the qualification gap. The related terms above name the adjacent certifications Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information most commonly stacks with.
Get notified when usage of Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information changes in contracts or guidance.
Tier 5 (T5) — SSBI with polygraph (CI or Full Scope)
Search active federal contracts and solicitations related to Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information on Bureauify.
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