Opportunities for students and new graduates
Your career is just beginning, and there’s no better place to start than VA. Whether with a job, internship, training program, or apprenticeship, you can take the first step on your journey here.
Start your career
Join one of the top employers for new graduates. We’re committed to supporting you in the early stages of your career, offering many programs to help you get a job, pay off debts, or complete your training.
Pathways
This set of 3 programs helps students and new graduates build on their education. Contact the Pathways Program Management Office (PPMO) for more.
Internship Program
Earn a competitive salary while continuing your education and learning about careers at VA.
Recent Graduates Program
Get training, mentorship, hands-on experience, and professional development opportunities.
Presidential Management Fellows Program
Join this unique leadership development program for advanced degree candidates.
I am definitely going to leave my internship prepared to work in pretty much any setting and I don’t think that’s something people can say coming from other internship experiences.
Kirsten Sanchez Social Work Intern
National Diversity Internship Program (NDIP)
We demonstrate our commitment to equity through NDIP. Students from diverse backgrounds can deepen their knowledge about government and share their cultural experiences with others with this path to a VA job. Gain hands-on experience in the federal government and receive a mentor who ensures you feel that your perspective, ideas, and solutions are valued. Hear from a current employee who started as an NDIP intern.
Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP)
We’re actively hiring participants in WRP, a recruitment and referral program that connects VA with highly motivated college students and recent graduates with disabilities who are eager to demonstrate their abilities in the workplace through summer or permanent jobs.
VA Student Trainee Experience Program (VA-STEP)
Nursing and medical laboratory scientist students who have completed their junior year can gain experience at a local VA facility. Contact the education department at your local VA medical center for more information about VA-STEP.