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Suggest a Feature →SkillBridge: The Actual Rules
General information, not legal advice. For legal issues, contact Trial Defense Service (TDS) or your Legal Assistance Office.
“SkillBridge is only for certain MOSs. Your command can just say no. Most people don't get approved.”
SkillBridge is available to ALL service members within their last 180 days of service, regardless of MOS. While commander approval is required, DoD policy encourages approval and requires written justification for denial. The program allows you to work full-time with a civilian employer while still receiving military pay and benefits.
What SkillBridge Is
SkillBridge allows you to spend your last 180 days of service (up to 6 months) working full-time with a civilian employer, industry partner, or training program. During this time, you continue to receive your full military pay and benefits, including BAH, BAS, and TRICARE.
The civilian employer gets a skilled worker at no cost. You get real-world experience, training, and often a job offer. The military gets a smoother transition for separating members.
Who Is Eligible
All service members within 180 days of their separation or retirement date. There is no MOS restriction. There is no rank restriction. You need:
1. Commander approval 2. To have completed your service obligation or be within 180 days of ETS/retirement 3. To have a SkillBridge opportunity identified
The Approval Process
1. Identify a SkillBridge opportunity (DoD SkillBridge website lists approved programs) 2. Discuss with your chain of command 3. Submit a request through your branch's process 4. Commander approves or denies
If Denied
DoD policy (DoDI 1322.29) directs commanders to support transition programs and requires mission-essential justification for denying participation. If denied:
1. Request the denial in writing with specific mission reasons 2. Ask if a shorter duration (90 days instead of 180) would be approved 3. Consider your IG complaint options if the denial seems arbitrary
Types of SkillBridge Programs
Corporate programs: Major companies (Amazon, Microsoft, Salesforce, etc.) run SkillBridge internships that frequently convert to full-time employment.
Training programs: Technical certifications, apprenticeships, and skills training.
Entrepreneurship: Some programs support starting your own business.
Non-profit: Organizations like Hiring Our Heroes run SkillBridge fellowship programs.
The Financial Benefit
During SkillBridge, you receive:
- Full base pay
- BAH at your current rate
- BAS
- TRICARE coverage
Meanwhile, you're gaining civilian work experience and potentially earning a job offer. Some SkillBridge employers also provide a stipend on top of your military pay, though this varies.
Timeline
Start planning SkillBridge 12 months before your ETS. Popular programs fill up quickly, and you need time to get command approval, complete applications, and coordinate your transition timeline.
1. 12 months out: Research programs, discuss with chain of command 2. 9 months out: Apply to programs 3. 6 months out: Begin SkillBridge (with approval) 4. ETS date: Transition to civilian employment
Bottom Line
SkillBridge is authorized by law and DoD policy. It's not a favor from your command — it's a transition program you're entitled to participate in. If you're within a year of separation, start planning now.
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Contact your installation's Trial Defense Service (TDS) for UCMJ matters, or Legal Assistance Office for general legal issues. These services are free for active duty service members.