VA Form 10-0491G: HPSP, VIOMPSP & VHVMAESP Scholarships

VA Form 10-0491G: HPSP, VIOMPSP & VHVMAESP Scholarships – Are you a U.S. student or veteran pursuing a healthcare career and looking for full tuition support plus a stipend in exchange for serving Veterans? VA Form 10-0491G is the official application for three key VA scholarship programs: the Health Professional Scholarship Program (HPSP), the Visual Impairment and Orientation and Mobility Professionals Scholarship Program (VIOMPSP), and the Veterans Healing Veterans Medical Access and Education Scholarship Program (VHVMAESP).

This comprehensive guide covers eligibility, benefits, application process, and service obligations using current information from official VA sources. Applications are typically open in early year (e.g., January–February); check the latest deadlines on VA Careers.

What Is VA Form 10-0491G?

VA Form 10-0491G (revised February 2020) serves as the unified application for the HPSP, VIOMPSP, and VHVMAESP. It collects applicant information, academic details, recommendations, transcripts, and personal statements to determine eligibility and ranking for scholarship awards.

Download the form here: VA Form 10-0491G PDF.pdf) (opens in new tab).

Incomplete applications are not reviewed. Applicants must submit through the VA Application Management System (AMS) when the cycle is open.

Health Professional Scholarship Program (HPSP)

The HPSP helps address VA workforce needs by funding education in high-demand healthcare fields. Recipients receive substantial financial support in exchange for a service commitment at a VA facility.

HPSP Benefits

  • Full tuition and required fees at a U.S. regionally accredited school.
  • Monthly stipend for living expenses.
  • Annual book stipend for instructional materials.
  • Potential career placement at VA upon graduation and licensure.

Service obligation is typically a minimum of 2 years (may vary by occupation).

HPSP Eligibility

  • U.S. citizen, 18+ years old, able to pass background check.
  • Full-time enrollment (or acceptance) in a qualifying healthcare program (e.g., physician, nurse, social worker, psychologist, etc.).
  • Minimum 3.3 cumulative GPA (with recent credit hours).
  • Not delinquent on federal debt.
  • Veterans and civilians eligible (Veteran status required for some fields like Physician Assistant).

Visual Impairment and Orientation and Mobility Professionals Scholarship Program (VIOMPSP)

The VIOMPSP supports students training to help Veterans with visual impairments through specialized rehabilitation fields.

VIOMPSP Benefits

  • Tuition and fees (capped, e.g., up to $15,000 per academic year for full-time, with overall limits).
  • Stipends and support.
  • 3-year minimum service obligation at a VA health care facility.

VIOMPSP Eligible Fields

  • Certified Visual Rehabilitation Therapist (CVRT)
  • Certified Low Vision Therapist (CLVT)
  • Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS)
  • Certified Assistive Technology Instructional Specialist (CATIS)

Veterans Healing Veterans Medical Access and Education Scholarship Program (VHVMAESP)

VHVMAESP (also known as VHVMASP) is a targeted program under the VA MISSION Act to support Veterans pursuing medical school, particularly in fields like Pediatrics. It funds medical education for eligible Veterans at specific partner schools.

VHVMAESP Benefits

  • Full tuition, fees, books, equipment, and monthly stipend.
  • Funded clinical rotations at VA facilities.
  • 4-year service obligation at a VA medical center after training, residency, and board certification.

VHVMAESP Eligibility

  • Must be a Veteran (typically within 10 years of leaving service).
  • Accepted to medical school at participating institutions.
  • Additional program-specific criteria apply (e.g., no other conflicting educational aid).

How to Apply Using VA Form 10-0491G?

  1. Check Open Application Periods — Cycles are often January–February. Use the VA AMS portal.
  2. Gather Required Documents:
    • Completed VA Form 10-0491G.
    • Academic Verification (VA Form 10-0491).
    • Evaluation & Recommendation Forms (VA Form 10-0491e).
    • Transcripts (unofficial accepted for some).
    • Resume/CV (limited pages).
    • Declaration for Federal Employment (OF 306).
    • Other supporting documents.
  3. Submit Online — Paper applications are not accepted.
  4. Selection Process — Reviewed by VA Scholarship Committee; selections based on eligibility, qualifications, and VA needs.

Official Application Portal & Info: Visit VA Careers Scholarship Programs.

Service Obligations and Career Opportunities at VA

All programs require a post-graduation service commitment at VA in exchange for funding. This provides stable employment, competitive benefits, and the chance to directly impact Veteran care. Relocation may be necessary. Failure to complete service can result in repayment obligations.

Who Should Apply?

  • Aspiring healthcare professionals passionate about serving Veterans.
  • Current students or those accepted into qualifying programs.
  • Veterans seeking medical education support through VHVMAESP.
  • Individuals meeting GPA, citizenship, and background requirements.

Tips for a Strong Application

  • Highlight healthcare experience, volunteer work, and commitment to Veterans in essays.
  • Secure strong recommendations.
  • Ensure all documents are complete and submitted before deadlines.
  • Contact [email protected] for questions.

VA scholarships like those applied for with Form 10-0491G offer a debt-free path to a rewarding career serving those who served. Start preparing today for the next application cycle.

This article is for informational purposes based on official VA resources as of 2026. Always verify the latest details on VA.gov.