The initial period of appointment to the training program is necessarily for one year, however it is expected that training periods will ordinarily be for two or three years. The length of time is determined by the progress of the trainee and availability of positions within the training program.
Federal support can only be for a period of three years.
The stipend increases with the number of years of relevant training since receiving the advanced degree. In some instances additional compensation can be arranged. If a fellow goes on to complete a second year of the fellowship, the second year is considered as payback for the first year. No payback is required for subsequent years. NRSA stipends are not considered salaries.