Yes, new grads can travel. Here's the honest guide — preparation, finances, and landing your first contract.
The short answer is yes — thousands do every year. Settings like SNFs and outpatient clinics regularly accept new grads. The key is honest self-assessment of clinical readiness and choosing supportive facilities for your first contracts.
The traditional "get 1-2 years first" advice came from a different staffing era. Today's shortages mean more facilities welcome well-prepared new grads, and many agencies have new grad programs.
Dramatically higher pay than permanent positions
Accelerated student loan repayment
Exposure to multiple clinical settings
Rapid clinical adaptability
Explore the country while earning well
No long-term commitment — try different settings
Less mentorship than residency programs
Steeper learning curve every 13 weeks
May feel clinically isolated
Tax and financial complexity
Some facilities have unrealistic productivity expectations
Social adjustment with constant moving
~$30,000/year more available for loan payments. See our detailed payoff strategies.
Highest volume of new-grad-friendly positions. Structured caseloads and documentation.
Some clinics welcome new grads. Look for supportive team environments.
Autonomous but challenging. Some companies train new therapists.
Most hospitals want experienced travelers. Consider after 6-12 months.
Real pay ranges vs permanent positions. How to maximize your first-year earnings.
See Pay Data →Week-by-week guide to your first 13-week assignment. What to expect and how to thrive.
Read the Guide →From board exam to first assignment — the complete timeline by discipline.
View Timeline →Which clinical settings are most accessible and supportive for new grads?
Compare Settings →Common errors new grad travelers make — and how to avoid every one.
See the List →Essential items for your first assignment. What to bring and what to skip.
See the List →How to get clinical guidance without a formal residency program.
Get Strategies →Yes. Many agencies place new graduates, especially in SNFs and outpatient settings.
Slightly lower packages, but still $1,800–$2,400/week — far above permanent new grad salaries of $1,000–$1,400/week.
Travel therapy can eliminate $80,000–$120,000 in debt in 2-3 years. See our student loan guide.
Take our interactive Readiness Checklist — 15 items covering licensure, clinical skills, finances, and personal preparation.
Connect with professionals who place new graduate travelers.