VA Career Counseling: An Introduction

When you think of your education benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs, you may focus on the financial aspects. There’s no doubt that the GI Bill® and other programs can help you on the path to a successful post-military career; however, paying for school isn’t the only way that the VA can help you access education.

Among the many services available from the VA are career and educational counseling, which can prove invaluable in helping you not only determine your career goals, but help you plan to actually achieve them.

In this article, we explore VA career counseling and how veterans can take advantage of this benefit.

Getting Started With VA Career Counseling

Chances are, you already have an idea of what you would like to do once you leave the military. The education and training you receive in the service can help you determine what you are interested in and where you excel. After years of having your time and activities planned, you may need help figuring out next steps for getting where you want to be.

That is where career and educational counseling can help you. Through the VA's Personalized Career Planning and Guidance (PCPG) program, or VA Chapter 36, eligible service members, veterans and certain dependents can receive personalized guidance on career planning, education options and goal setting.

Trained counselors can help you:

• Explore career fields that match your interests and strengths.
• Identify potential barriers to reaching your goals.
• Make sense of your benefits and show you how to get the most out of them.

 Who is eligible? You can receive benefits through the PCPG if at least one of the following is true: 

• You qualify as a veteran or service member for educational assistance under a VA educational program.
• You separated from active duty under conditions other than dishonorable not more than one year ago.
• You’ll be discharged under conditions other than dishonorable from active duty within six months.
• You’re a service member or veteran currently eligible for VA education benefits.

You can apply online through VA.gov, by mail using VA Form 27-8832 or in person at a VA regional office. 

Resume Building

One way VA counselors can assist veterans is by helping them build a resume. Military experience develops valuable leadership, communication and problem-solving skills that can transfer to many civilian careers. A counselor can help you translate those experiences into language civilian employers recognize while also providing guidance on resumes, cover letters and job search strategies.

Related: Tips for Writing Military-to-Civilian Resumes, Cover Letters and More

Academic Support

Returning to school after military service often comes with new challenges, from balancing family responsibilities to adjusting to online learning. VA career counseling isn’t only designed to help you determine what to do with your life after military service. Under PCPG, participants may receive academic counseling to help smooth their transition. Your school may also offer academic services that support veterans.

How VA Career Counseling Complements Your College Support Team

VA career counseling doesn't replace the support you'll receive from your college. Instead, it complements resources such as academic advisors, military support staff, career services and financial aid counselors. Working with both your VA counselor and your university support team can help you make informed decisions throughout your educational journey.

How to Prepare for VA Career Counseling

Here are some quick tips for how to approach VA career counseling.

1. Actively participate in the conversation and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
2. Be ready to discuss your experiences, goals and dreams so that you can work together with the counselor to develop a plan.
3. Be ready to come up with a plan for achieving what you set out to accomplish.

Taking advantage of VA career counseling can help you clarify your goals and make the most of your benefits and time as a student. Don’t be afraid to take advantage of this expert help, and get your post-military career off on the right foot.

Transition From Military Service With a Support System

Transitioning from military service to college or a civilian career doesn't have to be something you navigate alone. VA career counseling provides personalized guidance that can help you better understand your options, make informed decisions and confidently plan your next steps.

At Columbia Southern University, our dedicated military support staff includes current and former military members who understand your unique needs. We provide flexible online education options for military members who are planning to go back to school, and approximately 40% of CSU’s student population is military-affiliated.

To learn more, visit our online degree programs page.

NOTE: This article was originally written and published by Matt Rowley on August 12, 2020. It was edited and updated by Jazmin Hill in July 2026.