Degree Level PSC Flashcards
7 cards from real Academic Degree practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Degree Level PSC flashcards as text
A PSC announcement states a position is open to candidates with a degree in 'social science or related field.' Which of the following would most likely NOT qualify?
Answer: B.S. in Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering is a physical/applied science, not a social science or closely related field, and would not satisfy this requirement.
Which GS grade level is most commonly associated with the first-time use of a doctoral (Ph.D.) degree as a qualifying credential under OPM standards?
Answer: GS-11
OPM allows a Ph.D. or equivalent three years of graduate education to qualify candidates at the GS-11 level.
An applicant earned a Ph.D. but the degree was awarded by an institution not accredited by a recognized accrediting agency. What is the most likely PSC outcome?
Answer: The degree is rejected unless equivalency is independently established
OPM requires degrees from accredited institutions; a degree from an unaccredited school must be independently evaluated for equivalency to be considered.
In the context of Degree Level PSC exams, what does the term 'major study' most precisely mean?
Answer: The primary academic field in which the degree was conferred
'Major study' refers to the principal academic discipline of the conferred degree, as indicated on the transcript and diploma.
Which scenario correctly illustrates a candidate using Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) to qualify for a GS-7 position?
Answer: Graduating magna cum laude with a 3.8 GPA overall
Magna cum laude with a 3.8 GPA meets OPM's SAA GPA threshold and demonstrates the required academic distinction for GS-7.
When a PSC vacancy requires 'at least 15 semester hours of statistics,' a candidate with 12 hours of statistics and 6 hours of mathematics wishes to apply. What is the most accurate assessment?
Answer: The candidate does not qualify; the specific coursework requirement is not met
Specific course-hour requirements must be met in that exact subject; related coursework in mathematics does not automatically substitute for statistics hours.
A veteran applying under a Degree Level PSC exam receives 5-point preference. How does this preference interact with the academic degree requirement?
Answer: It adds 5 points to the applicant's exam score but does not waive the degree requirement
Veterans' preference adds points to a passing exam score but does not waive minimum qualification requirements such as the degree level.