@avy: Was that reply from HR? I'm assuming that the comment about not publicizing the criteria is regarding what is meant by median time in grade. They did publicize the other requirements for VSP. I guess Intel does not want to be transparent and they want to keep us in the dark re: the median time in grade requirement. You state that you were told that they are not making exceptions, but on the published slide it clearly states that certain exclusions apply.
Slide states they qualify for VSP if: (1) A Successful (or below Successful) rating for all Focal cycles in which they were rated between 2013 and 2016; and (2) have not received a stock share level 1 or 2; and (3) their time in grade is one standard deviation higher than the median time in grade for their grade in their business group. (Certain exclusions apply)