The Rewarding Careers of VA Nurses

Honoring Service with Service: The Role of VA Nurses

VA nurses, who provide compassionate care to veterans in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care settings, play a critical role in helping America’s heroes live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

A career as a VA nurse is more than just a job—it’s a rewarding nursing career serving those who served us first. These nurses have the opportunity to give back to those who have sacrificed so much, making every day meaningful and every shift deeply rewarding.

Why Choose a Career as a VA Nurse?

Working for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers nurses the chance to make a real difference while enjoying job stability, competitive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. Here are some key reasons nurses are drawn to VA careers:

1. Purpose-Driven Work:
   VA nurses care for veterans from all walks of life—those who served in combat, supported humanitarian missions, or safeguarded our nation’s security. Every patient interaction carries a sense of purpose and gratitude.
2. Comprehensive Benefits:
   VA nurses enjoy robust benefits including paid vacation and sick leave, federal retirement plans, and health insurance options that often surpass private-sector packages.
3. Career Advancement Opportunities:
   The VA encourages ongoing education and professional development, through programs that help nurses advance from LPN to RN, RN to BSN, and beyond.
4. Work-Life Balance and Flexibility:
   Many VA facilities offer flexible scheduling, telehealth opportunities, and support for continuing education—helping nurses balance professional and personal commitments.
5. Strong Community and Team Support:
   VA healthcare environments foster teamwork, respect, and shared values centered on patient care and service. Many VA nurses are veterans themselves, creating a strong sense of camaraderie and mutual understanding.

Additional Benefits for VA Nurses

Did you know that the VA is the largest employer of nurses in the United States? The VA currently employs more than 100,000 nursing professionals with projections for continued growth. In addition to thousands of jobs nationwide, the VA has some other great benefits for its nurses: 

VA Nurse Salary Increases

In addition to a competitive salary, VA nurses also receive annual pay increases. As of 2025, the 5-year average increase was 3.1%. 

VHA National Child Care Program

The VHA National Child Care Program was designed to help provide a better work-life balance for VA employees. Under this program the VA may pay a percentage of total child care costs for full-time VA employees. 

Paid Time Off for VA Nurses

Because VA RNs are in high demand, you can receive 50 days of paid time off each year, and you’ll start accruing these hours immediately upon employment. 

VA Coverage Benefits

The VA covers up to 75% of health premiums for eligible employees enrolled in its Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) plans. 

VA Retirement Benefits

VA nurses will receive retirement benefits including a federal pension, employer-matched Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) 401(k), and Social Security. 

VA Nurse Jobs

You can search for VA nurse jobs across 1,400 locations in all 50 states by visiting https://vacareers.va.gov/careers/nursing-jobs/. In addition to on-site jobs, you’ll also find travel nurse jobs and telehealth nursing jobs on this site. 

Educational Pathways to Becoming a VA Nurse

Most VA nursing positions require at least a Registered Nurse (RN) license, and higher-level roles may require a BSN or MSN degree. However, for many adult learners—especially those changing careers or returning to school after military service—going back to college can feel overwhelming. That’s where Achieve Test Prep comes in.

How Achieve Test Prep Helps Nurses Reach VA Careers Faster

Achieve Test Prep offers a flexible, supportive pathway to help LPNs, CNAs, Medical Assistants, Paramedics, and other healthcare professionals advance their education in flexible programs while still being able to work full time. No matter where you are in your career, Achieve’s bridge programs and test-prep-based learning model can help you save time and money on your degree.

• Flexible online courses designed for working adults
• Credit-by-exam that lets you test out of college classes
• Personalized guidance to help you stay on track toward your RN or BSN

With Achieve Test Prep, you can earn your degree faster and qualify for the rewarding VA nursing roles that make a lasting impact on veterans’ lives.

VA Nursing: A Career of Compassion and Commitment

For those who value service, compassion, and excellence in care, VA nursing offers one of the most meaningful career paths in healthcare. As a VA nurse, you’re not only providing skilled clinical care—you’re honoring the legacy of those who served and helping them live their best lives after service.

We salute the men and women who continue to serve—both in uniform and in scrubs.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward becoming a VA nurse, Achieve Test Prep can help you get there faster.