VA Form 10-0491K: HPSP & VIOMPSP Scholarship Offer Response – VA Form 10-0491K is the official VA Scholarship Offer Response form used by recipients of three key Department of Veterans Affairs scholarship programs. This one-page form allows selected students to formally accept or decline their scholarship award and provide updated contact and banking information for stipend payments.
Download the form here: VA Form 10-0491K (PDF).pdf)
What Is VA Form 10-0491K Used For?
This form is required after you receive a scholarship offer from one of the following VA programs:
- Health Professional Scholarship Program (HPSP)
- Visual Impairment and Orientation and Mobility Professionals Scholarship Program (VIOMPSP)
- Veterans Healing Veterans Medical Access and Education Scholarship Program (VHVMAESP)
The scholarship award will not be issued until VA receives your completed Form 10-0491K. It confirms your acceptance of the terms, including service obligations, and sets up direct deposit for stipends.
Overview of the VA Scholarship Programs Covered by Form 10-0491K
Health Professional Scholarship Program (HPSP)
HPSP helps students in high-need health care fields by covering full tuition, fees, a monthly stipend, and a book allowance. In return, recipients commit to a service obligation (typically a minimum of 2 years, varying by occupation) at a VA health care facility after graduation and licensure.
Eligible disciplines include physicians, dentists, nurses, physician assistants, social workers, clinical psychologists, and more. Both veterans and civilians may apply (veteran status required for some tracks like Physician Assistant). Key requirements: U.S. citizen, 3.3+ CGPA, full-time enrollment in an accredited U.S. program.
Applications are typically open in January–February via the VA Application Management System (AMS).
Visual Impairment and Orientation and Mobility Professionals Scholarship Program (VIOMPSP)
VIOMPSP supports students pursuing degrees or certificates in visual impairment, orientation and mobility, low vision therapy, or related fields. It addresses VA’s need for blind rehabilitation specialists.
Service obligation: Minimum 3 years at a VA facility.
Eligible specialties:
- 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)
This program (authorized under the VA MISSION Act) provides full medical school support, including tuition, stipend, and rotations, specifically for eligible veterans. It aims to increase veteran physicians serving in VA.
Recipients typically commit to a 4-year service obligation at a VA medical center. It is more targeted/limited than HPSP.
How to Complete and Submit VA Form 10-0491K?
- Indicate Acceptance or Decline: Check the appropriate box for your program and school year.
- Update Contact Information: Provide new address, email, and phone if changed.
- Provide Direct Deposit Details: Required for stipends. Include bank name, account type (checking/savings), account number, and routing number.
- Sign and Date: Include your full name, signature, and date.
- Return Immediately to:
HPSP/VIOMPSP/VHVMAESP
Department of Veterans Affairs
1250 Poydras St., Suite 1000
New Orleans, LA 70113
Contact: [email protected] for questions.
Tip: Retain the form until you are notified of selection—do not submit it with your initial application.
Key Terms, Obligations, and Responsibilities
By signing Form 10-0491K, you agree to:
- Maintain full-time enrollment and acceptable academic standing.
- Notify VA within 10 days of changes (address, enrollment, etc.).
- Complete required clinical tours/rotations.
- Fulfill your post-graduation service obligation in a VA health care facility.
- Repay the scholarship (with potential penalties) if you fail to meet the terms.
Always review the full scholarship agreement (separate forms like 10-0491F, 10-0491L, or 10-0491N) for program-specific details.
Benefits of VA Scholarships (HPSP, VIOMPSP, VHVMAESP)
- Financial relief: Full tuition coverage + stipends eliminate or reduce student debt.
- Direct path to VA career: Guaranteed interview/position upon meeting qualifications.
- Serve those who served: Meaningful work supporting fellow veterans.
- Additional support: Books, fees, and professional development.
Who Should Apply? Target Audience for USA Students and Veterans
These programs are ideal for:
- U.S. citizens pursuing health professions (especially those in shortage areas at VA).
- Veterans interested in giving back through medical or rehabilitation careers.
- Students committed to public service in veterans’ health care.
Check detailed eligibility on the official VA Scholarship Programs page
Common Questions About VA Form 10-0491K and Scholarships
When do I receive Form 10-0491K?
After you are selected for an award.
Is the form fillable?
Yes, the PDF is fillable and printable.
What if I decline the offer?
You can still reapply in future cycles if eligible.
Are there tax implications?
Stipends may be taxable—consult a tax professional.
For the most current application windows, deadlines, and resources, visit the VA Careers Scholarship page or contact the program team.
This article is for informational purposes only and is based on official VA sources. Always verify details directly with the Department of Veterans Affairs as requirements can change.