NIH sets stipend levels, beginning at the 0 level of experience, i.e. in the year following completion of a doctoral degree. A trainee must complete a full year of postdoctoral training to receive the next higher stipend level. For example, if a trainee has received 18 months of training, he or she would receive the level-one stipend and remain at that level the entire year. Upon reappointment, the individual would receive the level-two stipend.