Attention A T users. To access the menus on this page please perform the following steps. 1. Please switch auto forms mode to off. 2. Hit enter to expand a main menu option (Health, Benefits, etc). 3. To enter and activate the submenu links, hit the down arrow. You will now be able to tab or arrow up or down through the submenu options to access/activate the submenu links.

Office of Discovery, Education and Affiliate Networks

Menu
Menu
Quick Links
Veterans Crisis Line Badge
My healthevet badge
 

Internships and Scholarships

Get Real Experience. Reduce Education Costs. Launch Your Mental Health Career. 🌟

VA and federal partners offer internship, residency, and scholarship programs for individuals at all stages of their mental health career journey. These programs help you gain clinical experience and ease the financial burden of education.

Explore Key Resources

VA Office of Academic Affiliations (OAA)

OAA is the central source for education and training within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Use this site to find:

  • Internships and residencies in mental health fields (e.g., psychology, social work, nursing)
  • Nurse Practitioner Residency Programs in Mental Health, Primary Care, and Geriatrics
  • Clinical placements and fellowships
  • Resources for health professions trainees

Visit VA OAA

U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) – Job Seekers

Find internship and student opportunities across the federal government. Use the Job Seekers section to:

  • Search for internships by agency and location
  • Explore Pathways Programs
  • Learn about hiring options for students and recent grads
  • Visit OPM Job Seekers

Featured VA Scholarship and Loan Programs

Vet Center Scholarship Program

Supports students who pursue mental health degrees and commit to working at Vet Centers in underserved areas.

Specialty Education Loan Repayment Program (SELRP)

Provides student loan repayment for mental health professionals in high-need specialties who agree to serve in VA.

Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) 🎓

Offers up to $200,000 in student loan repayment for hard-to-fill mental health positions at VA.

Want to Know Where You Fit?

Check out these related pages to explore roles and requirements:

  • Career Pathways for Licensed Professionals
  • Paraprofessionals and Certification-Based Careers
  • College and High School Students

Ready to Apply? 🏁

Visit USAJOBS.gov to search for internship openings or browse student programs.

Need help with your application? Use the Career Portal for guidance and resume tips.

return to top go