What Is a GSA Schedule?
The GSA Schedule (Multiple Award Schedule, or MAS) is a long-term governmentwide contract agencies use to buy commercial products and services.
GSA Schedule in plain English
Getting on the Schedule takes GSA's Pathways to Success training and Readiness Assessment, usually two years of relevant experience, financial statements, past performance references and an offer through eOffer. GSA says review and award may take up to 12 months.
A Schedule contract runs five years, and GSA can extend it five years at a time, up to three times. You need $100,000 in Schedule sales in your first five years and $125,000 in each five-year period after, or GSA may let the contract expire.
Holding a Schedule doesn't guarantee sales. Agencies post requests for quotes in GSA eBuy, and you still have to market to buyers and win orders.
Related terms
- BPA (blanket purchase agreement): A blanket purchase agreement (BPA) lets an agency fill repeat needs by setting up "charge accounts" with qualified suppliers, then ordering as needed.
- IDIQ contract: An IDIQ (indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity) contract sets a minimum and maximum, and the government places orders as needs arise in a set period.
- RFQ (request for quotations): A request for quotations (RFQ) is a solicitation asking businesses for price quotes. It's common on smaller and simpler federal purchases.
- Past performance: Past performance is your record on previous contracts. Agencies use it to judge how likely you are to do a new job well.
Put it to work
Looking for another term? Browse the full glossary or the government contracting glossary guide.