From USAJOBS Help
Applicant Eligibility
Each job opportunity announcement will state: Who may be considered, who may apply, or define an Area of Consideration.
Agencies typically seek candidates from one of the three following eligibility categories:
1)Candidates with no prior federal employment.
- Non-Citizens
- U. S. Citizens
- All Sources or Public
2) Candidates who have “status” based on current or previous federal employment or merit promotion candidates.
3) Candidates that qualify for a special non-competitive hiring authority established by law or executive order.