Understanding GS level/pay for a veteran seeking employment w/ Veteran Affairs Healthcare

[RonaldLS]

I'm veteran starting Nursing School this summer, and plan on applying for a VA Hospital position upon graduation... But I think I know just about nothing when it comes to applying for a job with the VA, and I'm working entirely on speculation from my peers right now...

a)I heard that the VA will start a veteran's Nursing salary at a higher schedule than non-veterans, is this true? (The rumor I've heard is that you start @ the 75th percentile, which seems high to me... not that I'll complain if it is true!)

b)How long does the application process take (I've heard 6 months in some cases)

c)Does my status as a disabled veteran actually assist me in getting employment w/ the VA? (I know that you get extra "points", but I have no idea what that actually means...I'm over 30%)

Thank you for your time and advice, I really appreciate your input!