HPSP scholarship applications are now open  | VA Careers

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently accepting applications for its Health Professional Scholarship Program (HPSP). HPSP awards scholarships to students receiving education/training in a health care services discipline in exchange for a two-year service obligation at a VA health care facility.

The application period will remain open through February 27, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Read on for more information about HPSP, eligibility, and how to apply.

About HPSP

Established by the Uniformed Services Professions Revitalization Act of 1972, HPSP is one of the largest and most established health services scholarship programs in the United States. The program was expanded as part of the 2018 VA Mission Act, and continues to attract some of the best and brightest students from across the country.

The HPSP award pays a participant’s school tuition and required/mandatory fees as well as a monthly stipend to help with living expenses and an annual book stipend for instructional materials.

In exchange for these benefits, HPSP recipients agree to a two-year service obligation at a VA medical center. This service obligation is a unique opportunity to care for Veterans and can be a launchpad to a rewarding VA career.

“The people have been the best part and my favorite thing about training at VA,” said Arianne D. Sacramento, 2022 HPSP program recipient. “You get a lot of good stories from patients if you give them the time to talk to you about it.”

Eligibility

Both Veterans and civilians are eligible to apply for HPSP (Veteran status is required for the Physician Assistant program). Candidates must be 18 years or older, a U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization, and able to pass a background check.

Additional requirements include enrollment in an accredited health care services program, a 3.3 cumulative grade point average, and not being in default or delinquent on any federal debt.

Visit the HPSP page on VA Careers for more detailed information on program eligibility.

How to apply

VA uses an Application Management System (AMS) for HPSP applications. The steps for applying are as follows:

1. Create your account in the AMS. Use one user profile and provide two email addresses for communication.
2. Prepare documents which include your:
   • Application
   • Academic Verification
   • Recommendations
   • Resume
   • Transcripts
   • Declaration for Federal Employment
   • SF50 (for current or former VA employees)
3. Start early and complete each task on time; some items require coordination with your school or other entities.
4. Submit by the deadline. If you edit after submitting, file an addendum and ensure all items are complete before the window closes.
5. Complete the online application. Paper, scanned, or emailed applications are not accepted. Use a reliable internet connection and modern browser.

After applying, candidates who meet the minimal eligibility requirements will be reviewed by the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Scholarship Committee. After the committee has made selections, referrals are then sent to the national program manager and director who will decide which applicants will be selected and awarded a scholarship.

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