(a) The agency shall select persons to participate in the program on the basis of applications submitted to the agency.
(b) Each application must be submitted:
(1) in the form and contain the information the agency requires; and
(2) in a timely manner.

(c) An application is considered to be submitted in a timely manner for purposes of Subsection (b)(2) if the application is submitted:
(1) not later than October 5, 1999, in the case of an applicant discharged, retired, or released from active duty before January 19, 1999; or
(2) except as provided by Subdivision (1), not later than the first anniversary of the date of the applicant’s discharge, retirement, or release from active duty.