Federal Contracting Basics Course (Self-Paced)

This course includes

18 hours of project-based training from experts
Answers from real instructors
Proprietary workbook included
Retake for free within 1 year
Verified digital certificate of completion
Accredited program
Credits: 18 CPEs

This course is self-paced. For live online or in-person instruction, take Federal Contracting Basics.

This course is designed for newly assigned or about to be assigned Level I civilian agency CORs who need more in-depth training than is provided in COR Essentials, as well as CORs who need to be recertified. In addition, this course is intended for administrative and budget personnel, project officers, task managers, and others who need to gain familiarity with basic contracting concepts and processes. This course explains the COR's role and responsibilities throughout the acquisition process, focusing on post-award contract administration, including monitoring contractor performance, processing invoices, and identifying the need to modify a contract. Upon successful completion of this course, participants will earn 24 Continuous Learning Points (CLPs). Note: Civilian agency CORs must complete 8 hours of training to earn their Level I certification and 8 hours (CLPs) every two years thereafter in order to maintain their certification.

Full Tuition

$1,200
Due before the class starts

This course includes

18 hours of project-based training from experts
Answers from real instructors
Proprietary workbook included
Retake for free within 1 year
Verified digital certificate of completion
Accredited program
Credits: 18 CPEs

Learning Experience Highlights

Training from government‑experienced instructors

Receive instruction from subject‑matter experts who bring proven government experience.

Specialized for government & DoD

Courses that are regularly updated based on feedback and industry developments, ensuring versions are mapped to federal competencies.

The instructor was wonderful and so knowledgeable. The course materials were extremely relevant to what my job is. I feel like I can be better because of this class.
— 2025 student

Three professionals sit in black chairs with laptops and notebooks, engaged in conversation against a red wall.

Real-world solutions

Directly addressing the day-to-day challenges of federal employees.

125+ departments & agencies served

Your trusted training partner, equipping public service professionals with the skills and knowledge to excel in their roles and drive meaningful impact.

100% Online. Start Anytime

24/7 access to our premium course videos and projects.
Industry experts are assigned as your course instructor. Message your instructor with any questions.
Participate in GSUSA online discussion forums — share ideas and receive additional support.
Hands-on quizzes and mini projects to test and reinforce concepts.

Earn a Certificate of Completion

Upon completion of this course, you’ll receive an official certificate testifying to your mastery of the curriculum. We’ll send you a link where you can download your certificate, share it online with your friends, post it to your professional network on LinkedIn, and view all your earned certificates. Congratulations on your achievement!

Shareable on

Sample credential for completion of Federal Contracting Basics Course (Self-Paced)

A group of adult learners sits in a classroom, smiling and engaged in a government training session.

A government training instructor in a suit gestures while teaching in front of a whiteboard covered with notes and diagrams.

A person in professional attire holds a Graduate School USA folder, symbolizing participation in government training programs.

Federal Contracting Basics Course (Self-Paced) Curriculum

What You'll Learn at a Glance

Describe the purpose of the Federal Acquisition System.
Identify the three phases of the acquisition process.
Accurately use common acquisition terms and concepts.
Explain the role of the COR, including limits on COR responsibility and authority.
Monitor contractor performance and recommend corrective action for inadequate performance.
Recommend changes and provide technical support to the contracting officer for contract modifications.
Process contractor invoices.
Perform contract closeout.
Understand the standards of conduct and the ethics and integrity restrictions that apply to contracting personnel.

Course Syllabus

Download Syllabus PDF

Module 1: Overview of Federal Acquisition

Defines the federal acquisition process and its objectives
Explains the importance of transparency, competition, and efficiency in procurement
Outlines the acquisition life cycle and its phases
Introduces key legal and policy frameworks

Module 2: Elements of a Contract and the Roles of Key Players

Describes essential elements of a binding federal contract
Identifies key acquisition roles: Contracting Officer, COR, and others
Explains legal authorities and limitations of each role
Covers the importance of communication and documentation

Module 3: The Presolicitation Phase

Outlines acquisition planning and requirements definition
Explains market research and its role in shaping strategy
Describes procurement requests and independent government cost estimates (IGCE)
Highlights presolicitation notices and approval processes

Module 4: Solicitation and Award Phase

Details solicitation methods and proposal evaluation techniques
Explains competitive vs. non-competitive procedures
Introduces source selection strategies and documentation
Covers award notification and debriefing processes

Module 5: Postaward Phase: Contract Monitoring and Contract Modifications

Explains performance monitoring and reporting duties
Describes how to process contract modifications and changes
Covers quality assurance surveillance and risk management
Highlights contractor communications and oversight practices

Module 6: Postaward Phase: Contract Payments

Outlines payment types and processes under federal contracts
Explains invoice requirements and prompt payment rules
Introduces cost allowability and documentation standards
Discusses roles of CORs and finance officials in payment approval

Module 7: Postaward Phase: Contract Remedies

Defines available contract remedies for non-compliance
Discusses rejection of supplies/services and re-performance
Explains terminations for cause, default, or convenience
Covers equitable adjustments and contractor claims

Module 8: Contract Closeout

Explains closeout procedures for completed contracts
Identifies required documentation for closure
Details deobligation of funds and audit preparation
Outlines COR responsibilities in contract closure

Module 9: Procurement Integrity and Standards of Ethical Conduct

Emphasizes ethical behavior and compliance with procurement laws
Defines procurement integrity rules and consequences for violations
Explains conflict of interest policies and reporting requirements
Covers standards of conduct for all acquisition personnel

Group Training

Since 1921, Graduate School USA has partnered with over 125 federal agencies and trained more than one million federal employees. Led by instructors with deep, real-world knowledge of federal regulations, policies, and practices, our private group programs are practical, mission-driven, and tailored to your agency’s objectives. We offer expertise across key federal domains—including human resources, financial management, acquisition and contracting, leadership, and more—to deliver training where and how your team needs it.

Complete this form and we’ll get back to you within 1 business hour.

The Fact Is – We’ve Been Government’s Training Partner Since 1921

400+ Courses & Certificates 125+ Federal Agencies Served 200+ Subject-Matter Experts

Installments
	10% non-refundable deposit
$1,200.00	Total You Pay