Equivalency in Civil Service Jobs

The relevant qualifications required to perform government jobs are determined by the employing department. Qualification statements tend to ask for traditional models of formal education (e.g. degree or diploma) along with certain work experiences. In many competitions applicants with all the required experiences are screened out as candidates because they do not meet the "exact" educational requirements for the position as stated on the job posting.

Since April 2013, the equivalency approach to qualifications has been used for all unionized and excluded positions within the civil service and excluded positions in Health PEI.

Demonstrated equivalencies will be considered in lieu of the stated formal qualifications in most competitions, and applicants who meet either the established formal qualification or the accepted equivalency will be considered equally.

What is equivalency?

Equivalency is determined by the selection board of a competition through an examination of the applicant’s education, training, and experience in lieu of the stated formal education.

How do I find out if I have acceptable equivalencies?

The selection board for the competition is responsible for determining equivalency. The board will document acceptable equivalencies for applicants that do not meet the formal education requirements and will determine whether each of these candidates is equivalent.

Which competitions will use the equivalency process?

Most all positions in the civil service will be using the equivalency process. For legislated professions (such as nurse, engineer, lawyer, social worker, etc.), any determination regarding equivalencies shall be made by the licensing body.

How will I know if a competition is using the equivalency process or not?

Look for language in the ad under Minimum Qualifications stating “Demonstrated equivalencies will be considered".