VA Form 10-0491H: Notice of Approaching Graduation (HPSP)

VA Form 10-0491H: Notice of Approaching Graduation (HPSP) – If you are a recipient of the VA Health Professional Scholarship Program (HPSP) or the Visual Impairment and Orientation and Mobility Professionals Scholarship Program (VIOMPSP), understanding VA Form 10-0491H is essential for a smooth transition from education to VA service. This form notifies the VA Scholarship Program Office that you are nearing graduation, helping to initiate your service obligation placement.

What Is VA Form 10-0491H?

VA Form 10-0491H, titled Notice of Approaching Graduation, is an official Department of Veterans Affairs document used by participants in the HPSP, VIOMPSP, and related programs like VHVMAESP. Revised in February 2020, it requires submission approximately 6 months prior to your expected graduation date.

The form collects key details including:

  • Student’s name, Social Security Number, and email
  • Type of degree and expected graduation date
  • Verification from your academic advisor
  • Your intentions regarding service obligation (e.g., starting service, requesting deferment, or employment application status)

It supports VA workforce planning by ensuring timely placement in qualifying health care positions.

Purpose of the Notice of Approaching Graduation Form

The primary goal of VA Form 10-0491H is to:

  • Alert the Scholarship Program Office (located at 1250 Poydras St., Suite 1000, New Orleans, LA 70113) of your impending completion.
  • Verify your academic progress and graduation timeline.
  • Gather information on your service obligation plans, including any deferment requests for advanced education.
  • Facilitate the start of your post-graduation service commitment, typically beginning within 90 days of meeting qualifications.

For HPSP recipients, this aligns with service obligations in various health professions. For VIOMPSP, it supports roles in visual impairment and orientation/mobility services for Veterans.

Who Needs to Submit VA Form 10-0491H?

This form applies to current scholarship recipients in:

  • Health Professional Scholarship Program (HPSP): Covers disciplines like nursing, physician assistants, social work, and more where VA has recruitment needs.
  • Visual Impairment and Orientation and Mobility Professionals Scholarship Program (VIOMPSP): For students pursuing degrees or certificates in visual impairment, orientation and mobility, or related blind rehabilitation fields.

Both U.S. citizens (including Veterans and civilians meeting eligibility) who are enrolled in accredited U.S. programs should use it. Submit even if you plan to request a deferment.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing and Submitting VA Form 10-0491H

  1. Download the Form: Obtain the official fillable PDF.
  2. Fill in Personal and Academic Details: Include your expected graduation date and degree information. Have your academic advisor sign and verify.
  3. Indicate Service Plans: Check boxes regarding employment applications, selection by a VA facility, or deferment intent.
  4. Attach Required Documents: Often includes an updated resume, OF-612 or position application, and possibly a Status Report on Service Obligation Placement.
  5. Submit 6 Months Before Graduation: Send to the Scholarship Program Office.

Always retain copies for your records.

Download VA Form 10-0491H

Access the official form directly here:
Download VA Form 10-0491H (PDF).pdf)

Visit the VA Forms page for the latest version: VA Form 10-0491H

HPSP and VIOMPSP Service Obligations After Graduation

HPSP typically requires a minimum 2-year service obligation (varies by occupation) in a VA health care facility. VIOMPSP has similar requirements focused on blind rehabilitation roles.

Completing Form 10-0491H starts the placement process. Recipients must meet all qualifications and begin service within 90 days (extensions possible in some cases). Failure to comply may result in repayment obligations.

Common Questions About VA Form 10-0491H

When exactly should I submit it?
Six months prior to graduation is recommended.

What if I need a deferment?
Indicate your intent on the form and submit VA Form 10-0491J (Request for Deferment) alongside it.

Where do I send the completed form?
HPSP/VIOMPSP/VHVMAESP Scholarship Program Office, 1250 Poydras St., Suite 1000, New Orleans, LA 70113.

Additional Resources for HPSP and VIOMPSP Participants

Stay proactive by monitoring your VA AMS account and communicating with the scholarship office.

Properly submitting VA Form 10-0491H ensures you fulfill your scholarship commitments while transitioning into a rewarding career serving U.S. Veterans through the VA. For the most current details, always refer to official VA sources.