How long does it take to hear back from positions you have applied to with the government?

Answer 1

It depends on the need to fill the position. Let's say the closing date of the position is 11/1. Based on a scale from not qualified to best qualified, your application is rated to determine who goes on for further consideration. The whole process from the time the position closes to the point where you're called to schedule an interview should take no more than 90 days. Sometimes not qualified applicants get rejection letters as soon as 2-3 weeks, sometimes rejected applicants hear nothing back at all. Nowadays, most federal agencies enforce a strict background check policy- meaning that you can't actually begin working until the background check is complete. It used to be so that you'd be given a tentative employment offer and could begin working immediately. Provided that nothing negative came back on the background check, you could continue working. Because of the strict background and security check policy, even after the 90 days it could take up to 6 months to actually begin working, AND if other candidates were rated equally as qualified but without having any complications with their background check, your job can be offered to them.

On another note, most federal agencies no longer require you to take a civil service test. Depending on the position, you may have to take a typing test though. Also, think twice about just giving up. The federal sector is like an exclusive fraternity. Once you're in, you're in and it takes a lot for you to be removed from federal service. The security is terrific.

Answer 2

3 months is unusual. Especially with the fiscal year ending in 90 days. Don't set your job search aside for this position. Keep applying everywhere, including positions posted from this agency. You're still in the running until you hear otherwise. You can't know how many positions they are seeking to fill so don't try to "read" too much into the time lapse.

Answer 3

Depends on the position. I waited and waited, then finally gave up. Then one day there was a message on my computer: The time and location of the test required for the position. Time: 3 months!

Answer 4

That depends on your Civil Service exam score. The higher your score, the sooner you'll hear from someone. If you haven't taken the test yet, you need to do so as soon as possible. It's a lengthy test, so get ready to spend a good portion of your day in the testing room. Good luck!