DD Form 293: Discharge Review Application Guide 2025

DD Form 293: Discharge Review Application Guide 2025 – DD Form 293 is the official Application for the Review of Discharge from the Armed Forces of the United States. It allows veterans to request a review of their military discharge characterization, narrative reason for separation, separation code, and reentry code through their service’s Discharge Review Board (DRB).

The form is used to seek upgrades (e.g., from Other Than Honorable to Honorable) or corrections based on propriety (whether the discharge was proper under regulations) or equity (whether it was fair given the circumstances and overall service record).

Who Should Use DD Form 293?

Targeted at U.S. veterans (and eligible representatives) with a discharge issued less than 15 years ago. If more than 15 years have passed since discharge, use DD Form 149 to apply to the Board for Correction of Military/Naval Records (BCMR/BCNR) instead.

Eligible applicants include:

  • The veteran themselves
  • Surviving spouse, next of kin, or legal representative (with proof) if the veteran is deceased or incompetent

Eligibility and Key Time Limits

You generally qualify for a DRB review if:

  • Your discharge was administrative (not from a general court-martial resulting in a Dishonorable Discharge or Dismissal)
  • Less than 15 years have passed since the date of discharge
  • You believe the discharge was improper or inequitable

Boards give special consideration to cases involving PTSD, TBI, military sexual trauma (MST), sexual orientation (including DADT), or whistleblower/reprisal issues.

Benefits of a Successful Discharge Upgrade

An upgraded discharge can improve access to:

  • VA benefits and healthcare
  • GI Bill education benefits
  • Employment opportunities and federal jobs
  • State veterans benefits
  • Restored civil rights and personal reputation

How to Apply Using DD Form 293: Step-by-Step?

  1. Obtain your records: Request your DD-214 and military personnel file from the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) or VA.
  2. Gather evidence: Include medical records, character references, post-service achievements, and a personal statement explaining why the discharge should be changed.
  3. Complete DD Form 293: Print or type clearly. Specify the changes requested in Section 2 and provide detailed issues in the explanation section.
  4. Choose review type: Records review (no appearance) or personal hearing (at your expense).
  5. Submit to the correct board: Addresses vary by branch (Army, Navy/Marine Corps, Air Force, etc.). Check the form for current mailing addresses and online portals.

Processing can take several months to over a year. Include copies only—originals will not be returned.

Supporting Documents and Evidence

Strong applications include:

  • Copy of DD Form 214
  • Medical/mental health records
  • Service records showing positive performance
  • Post-service evidence (employment, education, community service, clean criminal record)
  • Legal brief or detailed personal statement

List all attachments in Section 4 of the form.

Download Official DD Form 293

Download the latest DD Form 293 PDF (FEB 2025)

Always use the most current version from the official DoD source to avoid delays.

Service-Specific Discharge Review Boards

Submit to the board for your branch:

  • Army: Army Discharge Review Board, Arlington, VA (online portal available)
  • Navy & Marine Corps: Naval Discharge Review Board, Washington Navy Yard, DC
  • Air Force & Space Force: Air Force Discharge Review Board, Joint Base Andrews, MD
  • Coast Guard: Refer to form instructions

Check the back of the form or official service websites for exact addresses and online submission options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using an outdated form
  • Missing the 15-year deadline for DRB review
  • Not providing specific issues and evidence
  • Forgetting to sign the form or provide contact information
  • Submitting original documents

Additional Resources for Veterans