Critical Language Scholarship Program | Noncompetitive Eligibility

Noncompetitive Eligibility

Under Executive Order 13750, CLS Program alumni who successfully complete the program are eligible for 12 months of noncompetitive eligibility (NCE) hiring status within the federal government, with the possibility of extensions of up to three years if they are engaged in military service, in the pursuit of studies at an institution of higher learning, or in other activities which, in the view of the hiring agency, warrant an extension of such a period.

CLS alumni will be issued an NCE certificate after all program and post-program requirements are completed. You can find more information about noncompetitive eligibility on the U.S. Department of State's International Exchange Alumni website and in this PDF overview of NCE.

Download the Non-Competitive Eligibility Guide

Non-competitive Eligibility Guide for CLS Alumni