FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Q. How does the Recruitment of Policy Leaders (RPL) program hire candidates directly into the federal public service?
RPL is a Public Service Commission (PSC) program that recruits candidates for departments and agencies following a thorough assessment process against a standard of competencies.

Q. I am a non-Canadian. Am I eligible for RPL?
You may apply; however, preference is given to Canadian citizens (living in Canada or abroad). A Canadian citizen is a person who was born in Canada or who has attained their Canadian citizenship via Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

Q. I am a permanent resident (landed immigrant) and am waiting to become a Canadian citizen. Am I eligible for RPL?
While the Public Service Employment Act does not forbid immigrants from applying to positions in the federal public service, it clearly specifies (see article 39 of the Public Service Employment Act) that preference for appointment is to be given in the following order:

1. Canadian Veteran
2. Widower or widow of a Canadian Veteran
3. Citizen of Canada
4. Non Canadians

Unless you have a highly sought-after specialization (one that is in shortage in the federal government and for which there are no qualified Canadians), your chances of being considered for federal government positions are slim.

If you have not already done so, you may want to visit the Human Resources and Social Development Canada Web site which provides a wealth of information for job seekers, and links to sites that may be of interest to you.

Q. How does the interview process work? Will the department pay for travel costs to the second round of interviews?
Successful candidates pass through a minimum of two rounds of interviews. The first interview will involve a senior official and policy advisors and will occur in numerous sites across Canada, internationally, or by phone. The second round of interviews is in Ottawa with senior officials from across the federal government. These interviews are based on the candidate's interests and background, as well as on the departmental interests. Those chosen for a second round of interviews have their travel costs covered by the RPL program.

Q. In what language will the interview be held?
Interviews will be held in the official language of your choice (English or French).

Q. What if I require technical aids or alternative arrangements for exams or interviews?
Please advise the Public Service Commission (PSC) or the department of your special needs when you are contacted. We must be informed of your situation in order to make alternative arrangements. The Policy on the Duty to Accommodate Persons with Disabilities in the Federal Public Service states that it is the policy of the Treasury Board and the Public Service Commission to create and maintain an inclusive, barrier-free environment in the federal Public Service to ensure the full participation of persons with disabilities.

Q. How do I apply for RPL?
The RPL program recruitment campaign is launched on an annual basis. Interested participants must submit an on-line application during the advertisement period, which takes place in the fall.

Consult the How to Apply section for further assistance with the application process.

Q. What happens after I apply? The selection committee for the RPL program will manually screen all applications. Only those applicants who meet the minimum requirements will be contacted and invited for an interview.

Q. When are successful candidates expected to begin employment with the federal public service?
The actual start date of employment will be arranged between the hiring department and the candidate.

Q. How can I view the status and results of my application?
You may view the status of your application online anytime. Select My Jobs from the left-hand bar Login to your file, and click on Application Status. Results will be posted as soon as they are available.