SkillBridge is a DoD program (the official site now says DOW SkillBridge) that lets a service member do industry training, an apprenticeship or an internship during the last 180 days of service. You stay on active duty and keep military pay and benefits while you work with the host. Your unit commander has to approve it.
Who qualifies
- The official site describes SkillBridge for service members with 180 days or fewer of service remaining before discharge. [skillbridge.mil]
- VA's SkillBridge page lists three requirements: at least 180 continuous days on active duty, a program you can finish within your final 180 days, and approval from your chain of command. It adds that each service may set more requirements, such as physical fitness standards, character of discharge and finishing TAP. [benefits.va.gov/transition/skillbridge.asp]
- Reserve and Guard members have their own rules. Check your branch.
The timing that matters
- The 180-day mark is the outer edge. Your branch can set a shorter limit by pay grade. The Navy lists tiers of 180, 120 and 90 days or less by pay grade, and the Air Force lists its own tiers. [mynavyhr.navy.mil SkillBridge page; Air Force SkillBridge policy FAQ, 86 FSS, April 2026]
- Navy: Sailors may not apply until they are within 365 days of expected separation, and SkillBridge has to start before terminal leave. [mynavyhr.navy.mil]
- Finish TAP first. Several branches require it before approval. [benefits.va.gov]
- The official site reported 12,125 position announcements and 6,665 providers in Q1 2026. [skillbridge.mil, read Oct 30, 2026]
Questions worth asking before you sign up
- Do the program's start and end dates fit inside the window my branch allows for my pay grade?
- What does the host say, in writing, about what happens after the last day? A listing alone doesn't guarantee a seat or a job afterward.
- Who covers travel and housing, and what does my command need from me before it will sign?
Official sources
- DoD SkillBridge (find opportunities and locations)
- Military OneSource, About the SkillBridge Program
- VA, SkillBridge
- Navy SkillBridge
Where Loona One fits
Loona One searches SkillBridge listings and keeps watch for new ones, and your Career Record holds your dates and goals in one place. Loona works alongside your TAP counselor and your command, between appointments and on your own time.
Job and SkillBridge search: coverage is limited.
Last checked Oct 30, 2026. Rules change. Confirm on the official page before you act.
Keep your transition organized in one place.
Loona One works alongside TAP, your transition office and veteran nonprofits so you can plan between appointments and on your own time.
Loona One is an independent product from Loona LLC, a Florida business. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by the DoD, the VA or any military branch. This page is general information. The program decides who qualifies.