One of our most frequently asked questions on social media concerns the application timeline. Many of our potential employees wonder what happens after they hit “submit” on their applications and send their information off to the hiring team.
As a federal agency, VA has a number of different rules and restrictions regarding the hiring process, and while we’re always working to improve our response times, we still must follow those rules to ensure a fair opportunity for everyone involved.
“The application process is thorough and may require a significant time commitment. However, current employees, including myself, believe it’s worth it,” explained physician-provider recruiter Candace Anderson. “The VA is committed to providing meaningful employment opportunities, and this process allows us to identify the best possible fit for both the role and VA.”
So, what can you expect when your application has been sent to VA?
Closing time
For every job announcement, there are official opening and closing dates listed on the main search page, as well as within the announcement itself. On the main announcement page, those dates are right at the top of the “Overview” section.
Once you’ve submitted your application, the closing date becomes the most important piece of information in the job announcement, so take note of it. Nothing happens on the VA side of the process until the Job Opportunity Announcement (JOA) closes to ensure that all applicants are treated fairly.
After the closing date, the hiring team can start looking at applications and making recommendations, but until then, don’t expect to hear anything.
Under review
Once the job announcement closes, your application enters the review stage. At this point, the hiring team will examine your application to make sure you’re eligible and meet the job qualifications.
Qualified applicants will be classified either as “minimally qualified” or “highest qualified.” Only the highest-qualified applicants will be referred to the hiring manager. If your application makes the cut, the hiring manager will do their own review of your application and start scheduling interviews.
Keep in mind, hiring managers may have dozens or even hundreds of applicants to review. Sorting through all those applications takes time, so if you’re wondering why you haven’t heard anything, consider how much time has passed. Barring any complications, you should receive a response within 15-30 days of the announcement closing.
When in doubt, reach out
If you have not heard anything after about a month, we encourage you to contact the hiring office listed in the announcement to inquire about the status of your application.
“In every job announcement, there’s a section called ‘How to Apply.’ In that, there’s an ‘Agency Contact Information’ section that will have the email and phone number of the HR representative who handles that particular announcement,” said physician-provider recruiter Amber Guinotte. “This HR representative will be the most knowledgeable about where the announcement is in the process.”
When you inquire about where you stand in the process, keep your communication professional and positive. If things are going well, ask about next steps. If they decided you didn’t make the cut, ask if there was something that helped other candidates stand out.
Regardless, accept any feedback graciously and remember that any information they provide can help better your chances the next time. Also, remember to be polite. Close out your communication by thanking them for their time and saying you look forward to speaking with them again soon. These small gestures make a big difference in how our hiring managers perceive you.
Work at VA
“We have different guidelines and procedures than other health care facilities you may be used to,” physician-provider recruiter Jeffrey D. Richter shared. “In turn, it may take our onboarding team a little bit longer to ensure all these requirements are met. Communication is key.”
- LEARN more about the application process.
- FIND more answers in our FAQ for applicants.
- READ more Job News and Advice.
- DISCOVER more at VA Careers.
