General Requirements for Preference

To be entitled to preference, a veteran must meet the eligibility requirements in section 2108 of title 5, United States Code. This means that: 

• An honorable or general discharge is necessary. 
• Military retirees at the rank of major, lieutenant commander, or higher are not eligible for preference unless they are disabled veterans. 
• Guard and Reserve active duty for training purposes does not qualify for preference. 

When applying for Federal jobs, eligible veterans should claim preference on their application or resume. Applicants claiming 10-point preference must complete form SF-15, Application for 10-Point Veteran Preference. 

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