Academic Degree Degree Level PSC 2

Question 1

Which degree level is typically required to sit for the U.S. Civil Service Entrance Examination (PSC) at the Grade GS-9 level?

Accepted Answer

Master's degree

Answer

GS-9 positions often accept a master's degree or two years of graduate education as a substitute for experience.

Question 2

What is the minimum academic degree level generally accepted for federal GS-5 entry-level positions under OPM qualification standards?

Accepted Answer

Bachelor's degree

Answer

OPM standards allow a four-year bachelor's degree to substitute for three years of general experience at the GS-5 level.

Question 3

A candidate holds a professional law degree (J.D.). To which graduate degree level is it most commonly equated in federal civil service qualification?

Accepted Answer

First professional degree above master's

Answer

The J.D. is classified as a first professional degree, placing it above the master's level in OPM's educational framework.

Question 4

For a Degree Level PSC exam, which credential would NOT typically satisfy a requirement for 'graduate education'?

Accepted Answer

Bachelor of Science with honors

Answer

An undergraduate honors degree, regardless of distinction, does not constitute graduate education under federal standards.

Question 5

Under the PSC academic qualification framework, which type of credit hours most directly substitutes for work experience at the GS-7 level?

Accepted Answer

Graduate-level semester hours

Answer

One full academic year of graduate study (18–24 semester hours) can substitute for one year of specialized experience at GS-7.

Academic Degree Practice Test

Academic Degree Practice Test

Academic Degree Degree Level PSC 2