It's important to understand the VA's role in the VA loan process. The VA doesn't set a minimum credit score requirement but instructs lenders to make sound judgments. The VA's role is to oversee the program and guarantee a portion of each loan in case of default. But the VA does not issue loans, and the agency does not enforce credit score minimums. Private lenders handle both of these duties. Most VA lenders use credit score benchmarks. Applicants with scores below a lender's standard usually can't be approved for VA financing. That minimum will vary from lender to lender.