Noncompetitive Eligibility
Your edge for federal employment
NCE makes
it easier for federal agencies to hire returned Volunteers who meet the minimum
qualifications of a given position, with three key advantages:
- Less competition
- Faster application process
- Strong
interest from hiring managers
What is noncompetitive eligibility?
Under Executive Order 11103, a returned Peace Corps Volunteer is granted noncompetitive eligibility for 12 months upon successful completion of service. NCE allows U.S. federal government agencies to hire a returned Volunteer without having to go through the (lengthy) competitive hiring process.
Proof of NCE status
Country directors include an NCE certification in the final paragraph of the description of service for all Volunteers who receive this benefit. Volunteers who resign from Peace Corps service are not eligible for noncompetitive appointment regardless of how long they served. You can attach your description of service to a federal job application to provide proof of NCE. If you need a copy of your description of service, complete a certification request form and email it to certify@peacecorps.gov.
Find an NCE job
- Explore open positions for jobseekers with NCE in the career listings.
- Explain your special NCE status to federal employers using this letter.
- Use your NCE status to work at the Peace Corps.
Comprehensive video on noncompetitive eligibility and how it works (17 minutes).