SkillBridge — What Every Transitioning Veteran Needs to Know
Only 1 in 10 eligible service members use this program. Don't be the other 9.
What Is SkillBridge?
SkillBridge is a Department of Defense program that lets transitioning service members spend their final 180 days of active duty working full-time at a civilian employer. You keep your military pay and benefits while gaining real-world experience in your next career. More than 4,700 authorized SkillBridge employer partners — from Amazon and Microsoft to small veteran-owned shops — are actively participating.
New employer applications are accepted twice yearly — October through December and February through April.
"The DOD pays your salary. You gain civilian experience. You audition for your next career."
Am I Eligible?
- You have at least 180 days of active duty service remaining at program start
- You will be honorably discharged at the end of your service commitment
- You obtain command/unit approval (the biggest gatekeeper)
- You apply to an authorized SkillBridge partner / employer program
How It Works
- 1
Confirm Eligibility
Verify 180+ days remain and you're on track for honorable discharge.
- 2
Talk to Your Command Early
Start the conversation 6–12 months before separation. Command approval is the #1 blocker.
- 3
Find an Authorized Partner
Browse the DOD SkillBridge partner list or use VetsJobs employer directory.
- 4
Apply & Interview
Treat it like any civilian job — resume, interviews, references.
- 5
Get Written Approval
Submit your formal SkillBridge request through your chain of command.
- 6
Work the Internship
Up to 180 days of full-time civilian work experience while DOD pays your salary.
Branch-Specific Notes
Army
Apply via your installation's Soldier for Life — Transition Assistance Program (SFL-TAP). Requires battalion commander approval.
Navy
Coordinate through your Command Career Counselor and CCMD. Approval routed via your CO.
Air Force / Space Force
Work with your base AFSO/Transition Assistance office. Squadron commander approval required.
Marines
Historically the most restrictive — start 12+ months out. Requires CG-level approval.
Coast Guard
Coordinate through your Command and CG SkillBridge program manager. Smaller pool, but high acceptance.
Common Mistakes
- Waiting until the last 90 days — too late to get command approval
- Assuming your command will say yes (always have a backup plan)
- Picking a SkillBridge slot for free labor instead of a real career path
- Skipping the interview prep — SkillBridge is a 6-month job audition
- Not negotiating a full-time offer before your internship ends
Only 10–11% of eligible service members participate in SkillBridge — almost entirely due to lack of awareness.
You now know about it. Use it.
Already Separated? You Still Have Options.
SkillBridge is only available on active duty — but your transition doesn't stop at separation. Here's where to go next:
- Translate Your MOS — Convert your military experience into civilian job titles employers understand
- Score Your Resume — Get instant AI feedback before you apply
- Browse Veteran-Friendly Employers — Companies actively recruiting veterans right now
- GI Bill Calculator — See what education benefits you have available
- Veteran Wellness Resources — Financial, mental health, and transition support
Ready to Make Your Move?
Browse veteran-friendly employers or translate your military experience.