OPMFinal Rule

Hiring Authority for Post-Secondary Students

Labor & WorkplaceEducation

Summary

This regulation makes it easier for federal agencies to hire college and university students for government jobs. It simplifies the hiring process so that students can work for the federal government while continuing their studies or during summer breaks.

Key Points

  • 1Federal agencies can now hire full-time and part-time student employees more quickly without going through lengthy application processes
  • 2Students can work for the federal government while enrolled in post-secondary education programs like colleges and universities
  • 3The rule streamlines paperwork and reduces red tape that previously made it harder for agencies to bring on student workers
  • 4This gives students real work experience in government while they study and provides federal agencies with flexible staffing options
  • 5The hiring authority applies to students at accredited colleges, universities, and other approved post-secondary institutions

Key Dates

Published

February 19, 2026

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.

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