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Military Programs for Aspiring and Practicing Physicians

Updated: Nov 14

Qualified physicians are eligible for up to a $75,000 signing bonus and up to $250,000 for Student Loan Repayment in addition to their salary.


The medical profession is one of the most honorable and rewarding fields, where

dedication to patient care and a commitment to advancing health care are paramount. For those looking to further their careers while serving their country, the Army offers several comprehensive programs tailored specifically for medical students, residents, and practicing physicians. These programs—such as the Medical and Dental School Stipend Program (MDSSP), Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP), Financial Assistance Program (FAP), Specialized Training Assistance Program (STRAP), and Direct Commissioning—provide exceptional opportunities to gain unparalleled experience, financial support, and a sense of purpose through service.


FOR MEDICAL SCHOOL STUDENTS


Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP)

Service Requirements: Participants must serve as commissioned officers for a minimum of 2 years for each year of scholarship received. Compensation includes Full tuition, required fees, books, and a monthly stipend of approximately $2,870. Additionally, a $20,000 signing bonus is provided for four-year scholarships. HPSP covers tuition, fees, and provides a monthly stipend for medical, dental, veterinary, psychology, optometry, or clinical psychology students. Participants will attend officer training and serve as commissioned officers in the Army upon graduation.


Medical and Dental School Stipend Program (MDSSP)

Service Requirements: Participants incur a one-year service obligation for every six months (or part thereof) of stipend received. Compensation includes a monthly stipend of at least $2,870.00. MDSSP offers financial support to medical and dental students in the form of a monthly stipend, allowing them to focus on their education without the burden of financial stress. In return, participants commit to serving in the Army following their education.


FOR RESIDENTS


Financial Assistance Program (FAP)

Service Requirements: Participants must serve as Army physicians upon completion of their residency or fellowship training. Compensation includes an annual grant of $45,000 and a monthly stipend of $2,870.00. FAP is designed for physicians in residency or fellowship training, providing an annual grant and monthly stipend. Participants commit to serving as Army physicians upon completion of their training.


Specialized Training Assistance Program (STRAP)

Service Requirements: Participants incur a service commitment in the Army. Compensation includes a monthly stipend in exchange for a service commitment. STRAP is intended for those in residency or fellowship programs, offering financial support through monthly stipends in exchange for a service commitment in the Army.


Direct Commissioning

Service Requirements: Participants must have an active, unrestricted license to practice and meet medical, moral, and physical requirements. Compensation includes a competitive salary and benefits as commissioned officers. Direct Commissioning allows fully qualified physicians, dentists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to join the Army as commissioned officers. This path provides an expedited transition into military service.


Minimum Application Criteria

To apply for these prestigious programs, candidates must meet the following criteria:


  • Applicants must be a US Citizen or Naturalized Citizen (INS 550) for Regular Army (RA) or a Permanent Resident (INS 551) for Army Reserve (AR).

  • Army and Army Reserve applicants must have a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Osteopathy Degree (D.O.) from an accredited US school of medicine or osteopathy

  • Foreign graduates may apply if they have a permanent certificate from the Educational Council of Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG).

  • Must have completed at least 1 year of an approved Graduate Medical Education (GME) internship.

  • Must hold a current, valid, active, and unrestricted license to practice medicine in the US, District of Columbia or Puerto Rico.

  • Must be at least board-eligible.


The minimum commitment you can serve is 2 years, but I advise that you agree to more to maximize your incentives (6 years).


Additional Benefits

Participating in these military programs offers numerous benefits beyond financial assistance and professional development such as:


TRICARE: Comprehensive healthcare coverage for service members and their families.


VA Loans: Access to home and small business loan benefits, including low interest rates and a ZERO down payment.


Bonuses and Stipends: Financial incentives to offset educational costs and living expenses.


Retirement Benefits: Robust retirement plans to secure your future.


Professional Growth and Networking: Access to a wide network of military and civilian healthcare professionals and leadership opportunities.


Joining the military as a healthcare professional not only opens the door to personal and professional growth but also offers a unique sense of purpose through service to the nation. The financial assistance, comprehensive benefits, and exceptional training provided by programs like MDSSP, HPSP, FAP, STRAP, and Direct Commissioning are unparalleled. Take the first step towards a fulfilling and impactful career by exploring these opportunities.


For more information and to apply, contact us!

SFC Gerst, Eric

Station Commander

Phone: (910) 527-9440


SFC Herrera, Jorge

Recruiter NCO

Phone: (720) 803-9312


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