(b) The eligibility requirements for the Fellows program are as follows:

1. (1) Only individuals are eligible to be recipients of Fellowships.
2. (2) Any individual is eligible for assistance under this program who has training and experience that indicate a potential for engaging in scientific research related to rehabilitation and independent living for individuals with disabilities.

3. (3) This program provides two categories of Fellowships: Merit Fellowships and Distinguished Fellowships.

   1. (i) To be eligible for a Distinguished Fellowship, an individual must have seven or more years of research experience in subject areas, methods, or techniques relevant to disability and rehabilitation research and must have a doctorate, other terminal degree, or comparable academic qualifications.
   2. (ii) The Director awards Merit Fellowships to individuals in earlier stages of their careers in research. To be eligible for a Merit Fellowship, an individual must have either advanced professional training or experience in independent study in an area which is directly pertinent to disability and rehabilitation.