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Understanding Your Eligibility

Understanding
Your Eligibility

Before you apply for any role in the federal government, it helps to know the terminology. So we've compiled a helpful guide to help you navigate the application process.

U.S. citizens, nationals, and individuals who own allegiance to the United States can apply to jobs that are open to the public. Even if you are eligible under one of the other hiring paths, you can still apply to jobs with this designation.

Open to the Public Eligibility Information

Current or former federal employees may be eligible for different hiring options including competitive services.

Federal Employees Eligibility Information

If you are a veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and were separated under honorable conditions, you may be eligible for veterans' preference, as well as other veteran-specific hiring options.

Veterans Eligibility Information

If you are a military spouse, you may be eligible to apply using a non-competitive process designated to help you get a job in the federal government either on a temporary or permanent basis.

Military Spouses Eligibility Information

If you are a member of the National Guard or are willing and able to join the National Guard, you may be eligible to apply for federal jobs located within a National Guard unit. When applying to a job in the excepted service, it is important to reach the Who May Apply section of the job announcement to understand additional eligibility requirements.

National Guard & Reserves Eligibility Information

 

If you are a student or a recent graduate, you may be eligible for federal internships and job opportunities through the Pathways and other student programs. Learn more about opportunities at OASH for current students and recent graduates

Students & Recent Graduates Eligibility Information

You may be eligible for a Senior Executive Service position if you meet the five Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs). Learn more about the ECQs.

Senior Executives Eligibility Information

If you are an individual with a disability, you can apply and compete for any job which you are eligible and meet the qualifications for, but you may also be eligible for Schedule A, a special hiring authority.

Individuals with Disabilities Eligibility Information

The federal government offers several hiring programs for family members of federal employees or uniformed service members, who are working or have worked overseas.

Family of Overseas Employees Eligibility Information

If you are an American Indian or an Alaskan Native who is a member of one of the federally recognized tribes, you may be eligible for Indian Preference when applying to jobs within the Indian Health Services and Indian Affairs.

Native Americans Eligibility Information

If you served with the Peace Corps or AmeriCorps VISTA as a volunteer or volunteer leader for a minimum of one year, you may qualify for non-competitive eligibility.

PEACE Corps & AmeriCorps VISTA Eligibility Information

The federal government offers other special hiring paths , or hiring authorities, to help hire individuals that represent our diverse society. Visit USAJOBS to learn more about special authorities and eligibility requirements.

Special Authorities Eligibility Information