Army Career Skills Program (CSP) is a thriving addition under the Transition Assistance Program umbrella. CSPs also includes DoD Skillbridge programs, affords eligible transitioning Soldiers within 180 days of their separation/retirement date, the opportunity to participate in apprenticeships, on-the-job training (OJT), employment skills training (EST), and internships with command approval IAW DoDI 1322.29(JTEST-AI) and AR 600-81, Chapter 5, 5-4. Both officer and enlisted soldiers can benefit from gaining employment skills as they prepare to transition from military to civilian employment and are encouraged to participate in CSP / DoD Skillbridge program opportunities. However, priority of attendance is to encourage and support opportunities to at-risk eligible transitioning Soldiers. For further guidance please reference, MILPER Message 26-175.

Learn more about current Career Skills Programs:
Army CSP

New Process for CSP

Starting March 4, 2026, the Army Career Skills Program will be centrally managed through the Army TAP Virtual Center.  Please view documents below:

Career Skills Program Flyer (PDF)
Career Skills Program Brief (PDF)
Career Skills Program Brief Schedule (PDF)

CSP/DoD Skillbridge Eligibility and CSP Packet Submission Guidance

1. Soldier must be within 180 days of separation or retirement. Soldier’s submission of a PAR in IPPS-A with a request to retire or separate is sufficient for determination of the 180-day eligibility with Commander approval to participate.

2. Soldier must complete all TAP Career Readiness Standards (CRS) requirements. Determination is based on completed self-assessment and Tier level assigned by TAP Counselor.

3. Soldier must have Commander approval and adhere to CSP/DoD Skillbridge participation authorities referenced in MILPER Message 25-116.

4. Soldier may have additional requirements to be completed for program acceptance, based on CSPs/DoD Skillbridge provider.

Packet Submission to Virtual Center – CSP Administrator:

  • Complete IMCOM 45 Participation Memorandum  
  • If pursuing Individual Internship, a completed Individual Internship Agreement is required.
  • If attending a CSP more than 50-miles from your duty-station, Soldier must submit Request and Authority for Leave in IPPS-A. Select from choices, Non-Chargeable CSP leave in IPPS-A.
  • Complete application materials by CSP/DoD Skillbridge provider, if required.