VA Form 10-253: Ecclesiastical Endorsement Guide – VA Form 10-253: Ecclesiastical Endorsement for Veterans Affairs Chaplaincy is a key document for clergy and religious professionals seeking to serve as chaplains in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system.
This article explains the form, its purpose, requirements, and the application process for aspiring VA chaplains. It draws from official VA sources for the most current guidance as of 2026.
What Is VA Form 10-253?
VA Form 10-253, titled Ecclesiastical Endorsement for Veterans Affairs Chaplaincy, is the official document used by an approved ecclesiastical endorsing organization to verify that a minister, priest, rabbi, or other qualified religious professional is in good standing and suitable for VA chaplaincy service.
The form certifies that the individual:
- Is in good standing with their faith group or denomination.
- Is qualified to perform the full range of ministry, including sacraments, rites, ordinances, rituals, and liturgies required by members of their faith group.
- Is authorized to represent their organization in providing spiritual care to veterans and others in VA facilities.
Important note: This is not a federal government form filled out by the applicant. It is completed and signed by an authorized official from a VA-recognized ecclesiastical endorsing organization.
Why Is Ecclesiastical Endorsement Required for VA Chaplains?
According to 38 C.F.R. § 17.655, ecclesiastical endorsement is a mandatory condition of employment for VA chaplains (full-time, part-time, intermittent, contract, or fee-basis). Applicants must possess and maintain a full and active endorsement.
The endorsement ensures chaplains can work effectively in a religiously and culturally pluralistic environment without prejudice, addressing the diverse spiritual needs of veterans.
Key requirements from VA:
- The endorsement must be dated within the past 12 months when applying.
- It must come from the official national endorsing authority of the applicant’s faith group or denomination.
- Once hired, VA chaplains generally do not need to renew the endorsement.
Who Needs VA Form 10-253?
Clergy and religious professionals applying for VA chaplain positions need this endorsement. VA chaplains provide spiritual assessments and pastoral care as part of interdisciplinary healthcare teams at VA medical centers.
Positions include:
- Full-time Chaplains — At least 40 hours per week plus on-call.
- Part-time Chaplains — Scheduled hours (at least 4 per week but less than full-time).
- Intermittent Chaplains — As-needed basis.
- Fee Basis Chaplains — Compensated by fees for specific services.
- Contract Chaplains — Provide services via contract.
How to Obtain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement (VA Form 10-253)?
- Confirm your endorsing organization — It must be on the VA’s approved list of Ecclesiastical Endorsing Organizations. Check the current list on the VA Patient Care Services website.
- Contact your faith group’s national endorsing body — Request they complete VA Form 10-253 or provide an equivalent document that includes all required certifications.
- Submit with your application — Provide the endorsement (dated within 12 months) to the local VA Medical Center or as instructed in the job announcement on USAJOBS.gov.
Download the form here:
Download VA Form 10-253 PDF
An alternative template or any format containing the required applicant information and certification is often acceptable if signed by the authorized official.
Other Requirements to Become a VA Chaplain
In addition to the ecclesiastical endorsement, typical qualifications include:
- U.S. citizenship.
- Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree or equivalent theological education from an accredited institution.
- At least four units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) from an accredited program (e.g., ACPE).
- Fluency in English.
- Meeting Selective Service requirements (if applicable).
- Other position-specific criteria (e.g., board certification for higher grades).
Search for open positions on USAJOBS.gov by entering “Chaplain.”
List of Approved Ecclesiastical Endorsing Organizations
VA maintains an official list of recognized organizations. Only endorsements from these bodies are accepted. Visit the VA’s Chaplain Ecclesiastical Endorsement page for the latest Excel list and details.
Religious organizations seeking recognition as endorsers must submit VA Form 10-0379 and supporting documents.
Tips for a Strong VA Chaplain Application
- Ensure your endorsement is current (within 12 months).
- Prepare transcripts, CPE certificates, resume, and DD-214 (if a veteran).
- Highlight experience in pluralistic ministry and working with diverse populations.
- Contact the chaplain office at your target VA facility for local contract/fee-basis opportunities.
Conclusion
VA Form 10-253 serves as the gateway for qualified religious leaders to provide vital spiritual care to America’s veterans. Understanding the process and securing proper ecclesiastical endorsement are essential first steps toward a rewarding career as a VA chaplain.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official VA resources:
Serving veterans through chaplaincy offers a meaningful way to support those who served our country. Start by connecting with your faith group’s endorsing authority today.