Opportunities for Recent College Graduates

For recent graduates, the new Pathways Programs offers the following options:

• The Recent Graduates Program is a new program that provides employment opportunities for individuals who have recently graduated from a qualifying educational institution or program. The RGP is designed to provide an opportunity to those individuals who lack experience to participate in Federal civil service jobs at the beginning of their careers, engaging them at the onset of their work lives before their career path is fully established. Applicants must apply within two years of completion of their educational programs. Veterans who were precluded from applying due to their military service obligation will have up to six years after degree or certifications completion to apply.   

Agencies participating in the RGP are given the opportunity to place recent graduates in a two-year career development program. Agencies may non-competitively convert participants who successfully complete the program to term or permanent competitive service jobs.

• The Presidential Management Fellows Program was established in 1977 to attract outstanding individuals from a variety of academic disciplines.  This two-year program has helped agencies meet their workforce and succession planning needs by attracting masters, law, and doctoral students to federal service.  The PMF Program attracts and selects the best candidates possible, but is really designed with a more narrow focus - developing a cadre of potential government leaders. It provides some sustenance during the first years of employment and encourages development of leadership capabilities. The PMF Program inculcates a lasting bond as well as a spirit of public service, ultimately encouraging and leading to a career in the government. For more information about the Presidential Management Fellows, visit www.pmf.gov.