Step into service with VA-STEP
Get paid, hands-on clinical training at a VA medical center with the VA Student Trainee Experience Program (VA-STEP).
About the VA Student Trainee Experience Program (VA-STEP)
The VA-STEP program offers students working toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS), or Doctorate of Pharmacy (PHARM-D) the opportunity to gain clinical experience and grow their critical thinking skills alongside a preceptor in their field. VA-STEP students are paid as hourly, intermittent employees.
Enrollment Qualifications:
- Be currently enrolled in an accredited BSN, MLS, or PHARM-D program.
- BSN and MLS students should have completed the final semester/quarter of junior year prior to the program start date.
- PHARM-D students should be between their sophomore and junior year prior to the program start date.
- Have a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. The CGPA must be computed on post-secondary academic work taken within the past three years or based on academic work accepted for credit toward the student’s degree.
- Be eligible for graduation by the following June (or December for prior approved nursing programs).
- Have had at least one clinical experience in a medical center or hospital.
Application Requirements:
- Be a United States citizen.
- Provide documentation of immunization status and current health care provider basic life support (BLS) training.
- Submit all application materials by the deadline.
Work Requirements:
- Not have a service obligation to any other Federal, state, or private institution or be a recipient of any Federal scholarship that incurs a service obligation to another agency.
- Be able to work full time during the summer months and part time during the academic year.
How to apply for VA-STEP
- Create your account in the Application Management System (AMS). Use 1 user profile and provide 2 email addresses for communication.
- Prepare documents which include your:
- Application (Completed by student applicant in AMS)
- Two (2) Recommendations Letters:
- Required: Dean/Academic Faculty
- Required: Employer/Manager/Other
- Resume
- Transcript
- DD214 (current and former service members)
- Other documents as you deem necessary.
- Start early and complete each task on time; some items require coordination with your school or other entities.
- Submit by the deadline. If you edit after submitting, file an addendum and ensure all items are complete before the window closes.
- Complete the online application. Paper, scanned, or emailed applications aren’t accepted. Use a reliable internet connection and modern browser.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. VA-STEP students are paid as hourly, intermittent employees. VA-STEP students are not eligible for overtime pay, holiday pay, or shift differentials. The rate of pay changes each year.
No. VA-STEP students may express a preference for a unit, but they will be placed according to preceptor availability and unit needs. VA-STEP students may rotate to other units for observational experiences.
Students in an accelerated BSN program can apply for the VA-STEP program IF they meet the program requirements and are available to work full time from June – August of the program start year.
First, assure you have submitted all the required materials. Seek recommendations from faculty or instructors who will give positive feedback about your performance in nursing school. Assure your resume reflects not only your clinical and health care experience, but also other paid employment, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities.
More opportunities for students and recent grads
We’re proud to offer numerous avenues to further develop your health care career.
VA Scholarship Programs
Scholarships, stipends, and paid training for high-need health careers—all with a VA job after you graduate and get licensed.
Specialty Education Loan Repayment Program (SELRP)
For physicians in residency; repays qualifying educational loans tied to a VA service obligation.
