VA Form 10-0102: Career Development Application Guide

VA Form 10-0102: Career Development Application Guide – VA Form 10-0102 serves as the official Career Development Application for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of Research and Development (ORD) programs. It helps clinicians and non-clinicians pursue mentored research opportunities to advance their careers in Veteran-focused health research.

This article provides a comprehensive overview, eligibility details, step-by-step guidance, and direct access to the form for U.S. researchers and VA affiliates.

What Is VA Form 10-0102?

VA Form 10-0102, titled Career Development Application, is a key document used in applications for VA Research Career Development Awards (CDAs). Revised in March 2005, it captures applicant information, proposed program details, research interests, and required approvals.

The form includes two main pages:

  • Page 1: Applicant details, facility information, award type, signatures.
  • Page 2: Summary description of the program in lay language, keywords (MeSH terms), and research objectives.

It forms the foundation of a full CDA proposal submitted through a VA facility.

Purpose of the VA Career Development Program

The VA Career Development Program offers protected research time and mentorship to build independent investigators who improve Veteran health care. Awards support research across areas like biomedical laboratory, clinical science, health services, and rehabilitation R&D.

Successful awardees often become leaders in VA research, contributing to innovations in clinical care, health systems, and more.

Types of Career Development Awards (CDA)

The program includes several award levels:

  • CDA-1: Entry-level for clinicians and non-clinicians (typically 2 years). Focuses on qualifications, mentorship, and career plan.
  • CDA-2: Mid-level award (3-5 years) requiring a detailed research project and career development plan.
  • CDTA (Career Development Transition Award): Helps transition to independent funding.
  • CDEA (Career Development Enhancement Award): For senior scientists to gain new skills, often up to one year.

Choose the appropriate type based on your experience and career stage when completing VA Form 10-0102 (Box 10b).

Who Is Eligible for VA Form 10-0102 and CDA Awards?

Eligibility generally includes:

  • U.S. citizens or those with appropriate work authorization.
  • Clinicians (MD, DO, etc.) and non-clinicians (PhD or equivalent) with relevant training.
  • Nomination by a VA facility with an identified VA mentor.
  • Appropriate experience level matching the award type (e.g., early-career for CDA-1/2).

Candidates do not need a current VA appointment at application but must secure one if awarded. Contact your local VA Research Office for specific RFA details and pre-application requirements.

How to Fill Out VA Form 10-0102: Step-by-Step?

  1. Download the Form: Get the official fillable PDF from the VA website.
  2. Complete Page 1:
    • Leave review date and career development number blank.
    • Provide facility, applicant name, program title (≤72 characters), preceptor details.
    • Select R&D Service and Award Type.
    • Include proposed start date, citizenship, licenses, research interests, and signatures.
  3. Complete Page 2: Write a clear lay-language summary, keywords (MeSH terms), and research objectives.
  4. Gather Supporting Documents: Follow detailed instructions for full proposals, including budget forms, biosketches, and approvals.

Pro Tip: Work closely with your VA facility’s Associate Chief of Staff for Research and Development (ACOS/R&D). Original signatures are required.

Step-by-Step Application Process

  • Preapplication (Letter of Intent): Submit through your local VA Research Office. Deadlines are typically quarterly (e.g., Oct 10, Jan 10).
  • Full Proposal: If approved, prepare the complete package starting with VA Form 10-0102.
  • Local Approvals: Obtain R&D Committee and other reviews.
  • Submission: VA facility submits to ORD. Deadlines align with program cycles.

Review the latest Program Guide 1200.04 and RFAs (intranet or via local office) for current details.

Benefits of VA Career Development Awards

Awardees receive:

  • Protected research time (e.g., 75%+ effort).
  • Salary support and possible research funds.
  • Mentorship from VA experts.
  • Pathway to independent VA funding like Merit Reviews.

This program strengthens the VA research workforce and directly benefits Veterans.

Download VA Form 10-0102

Official Download: Download VA Form 10-0102 (PDF) here.

Always use the latest version from va.gov and verify with your local VA Research Office.

Tips for a Strong Application

  • Align your research with VA priorities and Veteran health needs.
  • Secure strong mentorship and local support.
  • Follow font, margin, and page limit rules strictly.
  • Use clear, impactful language in the summary.
  • Highlight potential impact on Veterans.

Consult resources like the VA Research website for FAQs and examples.

Additional Resources

For the most current information, visit official VA sites or reach out to [email protected].

This guide is for informational purposes. Requirements can change—always verify with official VA sources.