diff --git a/apps/directaward/models.py b/apps/directaward/models.py
index 97341d7f..dea41ce6 100644
--- a/apps/directaward/models.py
+++ b/apps/directaward/models.py
@@ -90,6 +90,7 @@ def award(self, recipient):
                                           acceptance=BadgeInstance.ACCEPTANCE_ACCEPTED,
                                           recipient_type=BadgeInstance.RECIPIENT_TYPE_EDUID,
                                           send_email=False,
+                                          issued_on=self.created_at,
                                           award_type=BadgeInstance.AWARD_TYPE_DIRECT_AWARD,
                                           direct_award_bundle=self.bundle,
                                           evidence=evidence,