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Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP)

 

Pathways Internship Program

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The Pathways Internship Program allows students to join VA in career positions that emphasize long-term training and development. You can find all available VA Pathways Internship positions through USAJOBS Student Jobs. If you are a current Pathways Intern, visit Pathways at VA for information and resources that can help you throughout your internship.

Eligibility Requirements

Pathways internships are open to current students who are legally permitted to work in the U.S.

To be eligible, applicants must be:

  • Accepted for enrollment or enrolled and seeking a degree (diploma, certificate, etc.) at a qualifying educational institution, on at least a half-time basis (as defined by the institution); or
  • Accepted for enrollment or enrolled in a qualifying career or technical education program that awards a recognized postsecondary credential (such as a Registered Apprenticeship Program or Job Corps).

Under this program, an individual who needs to complete less than a half-time equivalent of an academic/vocational or technical courseload immediately prior to graduating is still eligible.

For more information on eligibility requirements for the Pathways Internship Program, review the VA Pathways Program Requirements.

Qualifications

Pathways internship qualifications vary by career field. Specific qualifications can be found on each Pathways opening on USAJOBS Student Jobs

General Training and Developmental Experiences

Pathways Interns have the opportunity to gain valuable training and work experience during their internships. Through Pathways Internships, students have the opportunity to learn about various career paths, earn a competitive salary while continuing their educations, and contribute to the larger mission of VA in a meaningful way. Participants in the Pathways Internship Program who successfully complete internship requirements may also be eligible for conversion to a full-time position. For a complete list of program and conversion requirements, review the VA Pathways Program Requirements.

Application Process

You can find ​VA Pathways application information by searching for available VA Pathways positions on USAJOBS (keyword: “Pathways”).

Program Information

OPM Website

Pathways Program Office

FAQs

Program Size:

During Fiscal Year 2023, VA hired 112 Pathways Interns.

Service Obligation:

To be eligible for a permanent Federal career, interns must be on an eligible appointment (please consult your hiring manager or HR specialist to determine if your appointment is eligible) and must successfully complete the program’s requirements.

Current Career Fields:

The Pathways Internship Program has positions in many career fields.

After Program Completion

After successful completion of the program requirements, the individual may, at the agency's discretion, be converted to a term or permanent appointment.

Pathways Programs Resource Center

Current VA Pathways Programs participants can visit the Pathways Participant Resource Center to find information and resources that will guide them throughout their program experience.


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