(a) Coordinated administration 
In carrying out the purpose described in section 1133 (1) of this title, the Secretary shall provide for coordinated administration and regulation of graduate programs assisted under subparts 1, 2, and 3 of this part with other Federal programs providing assistance for graduate education in order to minimize duplication and improve efficiency to ensure that the programs are carried out in a manner most compatible with academic practices and with the standard timetables for applications for, and notifications of acceptance to, graduate programs.

(b) Hiring authority 
For purposes of carrying out subparts 1, 2, and 3 of this part, the Secretary shall appoint, without regard to the provisions of title 5 that govern appointments in the competitive service, such administrative and technical employees, with the appropriate educational background, as shall be needed to assist in the administration of such parts^[1]. The employees shall be paid without regard to the provisions of chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of such title relating to classification and General Schedule pay rates.

(c) Use for religious purposes prohibited 
No institutional payment or allowance under section 1134b (b) or 1135d (a) of this title shall be paid to a school or department of divinity as a result of the award of a fellowship under subpart 1 or 2 of this part, respectively, to an individual who is studying for a religious vocation.

(d) Evaluation 
The Secretary shall evaluate the success of assistance provided to individuals under subpart 1, 2, or 3 of this part with respect to graduating from their degree programs, and placement in faculty and professional positions.

(e) Continuation awards 
The Secretary, using funds appropriated to carry out subparts 1 and 2 of this part, and before awarding any assistance under such parts^[1] to a recipient that did not receive assistance under part C or D of title IX (as such parts were in effect prior to October 7, 1998) shall continue to provide funding to recipients of assistance under such part C or D (as so in effect), as the case may be, pursuant to any multiyear award of such assistance.