SkillBridge in five phases
The program is simple in principle — intern with a civilian employer during your last months of service, at full pay — and bureaucratic in practice. Here's the shape of it. Your installation SkillBridge office is the final word on your service's current policy.
Not legal or official guidance · confirm details with your installation officeEligibility
SkillBridge is available during your last 180 days of service, with command approval. Your maximum program length depends on your branch and rank — some services cap it well below 180 days. Confirm your window with your installation SkillBridge office and put your projected separation date on paper.
- Confirm your branch's current SkillBridge policy
- Talk to your chain of command early — much earlier than feels necessary
- Register for TAP if you haven't
Approval
Command approval is the long pole in the tent. Your commander weighs mission needs against your transition — a complete, early packet is your best argument. Requirements differ by branch and unit; your installation office has the current checklist.
- Draft your request packet before you have a program picked
- Line up your leave balance and terminal leave plan
- Get your commander's informal read before the formal ask
Applications
Apply to programs like jobs, because they are jobs. Target 5–10 programs that fit your MOS, your timeline, and where you actually want to live. Programs with explicit MOS targeting respond at much higher rates to matching candidates.
- Use the MOS translator to build your civilian resume language
- Apply to a mix of national and local programs
- Track every application — including ones made off-platform
Interviews
SkillBridge interviews are two-way: they're evaluating you for a future job; you're evaluating whether the internship leads anywhere. Ask directly about conversion — how many past interns got offers? A serious employer knows the number.
- Ask about conversion rates and mentorship structure
- Confirm the program can flex to your approved window
- Get the training plan in writing — you'll need it for your packet
Start & convert
Finish your packet, sign the training agreement, and start. During the program, treat it as a working interview. Before it ends, force the conversion conversation early — the worst outcome is a great internship that ends with a handshake and no offer.
- Set a 30/60/90 plan with your program mentor
- Raise the full-time conversation by the halfway mark
- Leave a review — the next cohort is counting on you
Ready for phase three?
Translate your MOS and see which programs are explicitly recruiting your specialty.
Start with the translator →