SkillBridge

Eligibility Requirements

• Active Duty Service Members

• Marines who have served a minimum of 180 days on active duty and received honorable discharge, including general discharge (under honorable conditions) within 180 days.

• Marines in the process of separating or retiring, must ensure adequate time remaining on contract prior to EAS by identifying their Category type, permitted timeline and final approval authorities for SkillBridge Program participation.

• Complete the Transition Readiness Seminar requirements at least 180 days before separation.

• Obtain command approval before participating in a Marine Corps SkillBridge program. Information on how to apply through your command will be provided during the SkillBridge Information Session.

• Marines enrolled in the Individual Disability Evaluation System or assigned to the Wounded Warrior Transition Program will require Commander consideration and approval of a SkillBridge Program packet and a separation date within 180 days.

• Category I (E1-E5): up to 120 days, requires approval from Commanders at the grade of O5 or above. 
   
• Category II (E6-E7, WO-CWO3, O1-O4): up to 90 days, requires approval from Commanders at the grade of O5 or above.
   
• Category III (E8-E9, W4-W5, O5 and above): up to 90 days or less, requires General Officer approval and Marine’s SkillBridge participation must not result in a gapped billet.

• NAVMC 1700.2
• MARADMIN: 280/24
• DoDI 1322.29

Application Process

The application process may vary from installation to installation.

We encourage you to contact your SkillBridge coordinator and attend the SkillBridge Information Session before you process your application.

Selection / Acceptance
Applying does not guarantee your acceptance with a SkillBridge industry partner. Please adhere to the due dates and any additional information required. You will be notified of your acceptance through a Transition Readiness or SkillBridge representative.
 
Your Responsibility
You will be responsible for contacting the specific SkillBridge industry partner directly for information; a SkillBridge Coordinator will guide you through the application process. Authorization is obtained by uploading your packet and routing through NCMIS for final approval from your CO. 

1. Attend the SkillBridge Brief
   Participate in the mandatory brief at your installation.
    
2. Confirm Eligibility
   Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the SkillBridge program.
    
3. Command Approval
   Discuss your interest in SkillBridge with your command to obtain their support.
    
4. Check-Out/Separation Coordination
   Connect with your local administrative office regarding check-out/separation procedures.
    
5. Research SkillBridge Opportunities
   Explore and apply to DoD-approved SkillBridge programs that match your career goals.
    
6. Selection/Acceptance
   Receive confirmation of your acceptance into a DoD-approved SkillBridge opportunity.
    
7. Complete Application Packet
   Gather and complete all necessary documents for the SkillBridge application.
    
8. Submit for Review
   Submit your completed packet to your installation's SkillBridge office for review and conditional approval.
    
9. Command Authorization
   Submit your application through MyMarineEducation for final command authorization.
    
10. Finalize Your Approval
    Download and print your SkillBridge Approval Document from MyMarineEducation.

Downloads
Download the files below and save them to a folder on your MAC or Windows computer. Make sure to open the file from the new location. If you do not have Adobe Acrobat Reader, please visit Adobe to download it for free.
  
NAVMC 1320/1 USMC SkillBridge Packet Checklist
Required by any service member (aboard a MCI) applying for a SkillBridge program.
 
NAVMC 1320/2 USMC SkillBridge Participant Screening
Required by any service member (aboard a MCI) applying for a SkillBridge program.
  
Sample Program Acceptance Letter
You must provide an acceptance letter for the program you are attending. The letter must include dates, times, location and a point of contact for the training. It should also provide information for the topics on the example.

Information Session

We want to help you successfully transition into the civilian workforce by using the SkillBridge DoD-approved opportunities. 

We encouraged you to attend the SkillBridge Information Session to learn essential details about the program:

• Eligibility Requirements
• Available DoD-Approved SkillBridge Opportunities
• How to Successfully Navigate the Application Process

During the session, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the program’s requirements, timelines, and the commitment involved.
 
The session also offers a chance to ask questions, ensuring that you are fully informed before moving forward with any applications. Completion of the SkillBridge Information Session is required before you can engage with the program or submit any further documentation, making it a crucial step in your transition journey.

View the calendar section of this webpage or contact your local SkillBridge representative for session dates and times.

SkillBridge Coordinators

Connect with SkillBridge coordinators to explore opportunities and receive guidance throughout your transition to civilian life.

If you are currently not located on a Marine Corps base, please contact the SkillBridge coordinator nearest to your location.

• Camp Blaz: skillbridge@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org
• Camp Elmore: careerservices.mccshr@usmc-mccs.org
• Camp Fuji: skillbridge@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org
• Camp Lejeune - New River: clnrskillbridge@usmc.mil
• Camp Mujuk: skillbridge@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org
• Henderson Hall: HNHL_Skillbridge@usmc.mil
• MARFORRES: mfreducation@usmc.mil
• MCAGCC 29 Palms: plmsppd@usmc.mil
• MCAS Beaufort: bfrt_Vol__ed@usmc.mil
• MCAS Cherry Point: OMB.PPD@usmc-mccs.org
• MCAS Iwakuni: ombiwakuni.transitionreadiness@usmc-mccs.org
• MCAS Miramar: smbmiramarmccs.skillbridge@usmc.mil
• MCB Hawaii: mcbh.skillbridge.smb@usmc.mil
• MCB Quantico: mccs_quantico_tamp@usmc.mil
• MCB Albany: MCLBASkillbridge@usmc.mil
• MCI-West Camp Pendleton: CPSDP@USMC.MIL
• MCMWTC Bridgeport: plmsppd@usmc.mil
• MCRD Parris Island: parr_Vol_ed@usmc.mil
• Okinawa- Camp Courtney: skillbridge@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org
• Okinawa- Camp Foster: skillbridge@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org
• Okinawa- Camp Hansen: skillbridge@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org
• Okinawa- Camp Kinser: skillbridge@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org
• Okinawa- Camp Schwab: skillbridge@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org
• Okinawa - MCAS Futenma: skillbridge@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org
• Yuma: MCASYumaSkillBridge@usmc.mil

Industry Training

Earn a Degree

Whether you're looking to earn a college degree, obtain a certification, or improve your skills, there are resources designed to support your personal and professional growth, preparing you for success both in the Marine Corps and in civilian life. Take advantage of these opportunities to invest in your future today!

Visit your Volunteer Education center and speak with a coordinator.

Volunteer Education

Enroll in a University or College

The Leadership Scholar Program is a valuable resource for service members seeking to leverage their military experience into academic success and civilian career opportunities.

Service members interested in the Leadership Scholar Program should start by visiting the Volunteer Education and speaking to an education coordinator or the Transition Assistance Program coordinator.

Leadership Scholar Program

Credentialing Opportunities Online

The Credentialing Opportunities Program is an excellent way to leverage your military experience and prepare for a successful career both within the Marine Corps and in civilian life.

Marines interested in the COOL program should visit their local Volunteer Education Center and speak to an education coordinator to explore available credentials, understand the application process, and get started on obtaining valuable certifications and licenses.

Credentialing Opportunities Online

Budgeting for Your Future

We can help you prepare for financial changes by offering guidance on budgeting, saving, and managing expenses during and after your transition.

Personal Financial Management

Managing Stress

The Community Counseling Program utilizes a holistic approach to support individuals, children, couples, and families. Our clinicians provide solutions designed to meet your specific needs in the following areas:

• Relationship Concerns
• Work Stressors
• Life Stressors
• Trauma
• EAS/PCS and Challenges Related to Transition
• Grief and Loss
• Sadness
• Worry
• Deployment Cycle Stressors and Reintegration
• Adjustment
• Crisis Intervention
• Sleep Hygiene
• Parent-Child Communication

Establish a connection with professionals from your Community Counseling Program and discover a successful journey toward overcoming life's challenges.

Community Counseling

Will I get paid during the SkillBridge program?

Yes, service members continue to receive their military pay and benefits during the SkillBridge program, as they remain on active duty while participating in the program.

Do I have to accept a job offer from the SkillBridge program?

No, there is no obligation to accept a job offer from the SkillBridge program.

Can SkillBridge participation delay my separation date?

No, participation in SkillBridge does not delay your separation date.

Can I relocate for a SkillBridge program?

Yes, relocation for a SkillBridge program is possible, but it requires command approval and coordination. Any relocation costs are typically the responsibility of the service member unless otherwise arranged with the SkillBridge provider.

Can I participate in SkillBridge while on terminal leave?

No, SkillBridge participation is not allowed while on terminal leave. The program must be completed before starting terminal leave, as it is designed to be an active duty training opportunity.

Is there a cost associated with SkillBridge?

While the SkillBridge program itself is offered at no cost to service members, there are instances where industry partners may require the use of benefits like the GI Bill. This typically occurs in programs where additional training, certification, or licensing is provided beyond what the SkillBridge program covers.