When using category rating, when are veterans' preference points added to an applicant's rating?

When using category rating, veterans' preference points are added to an applicant's rating after the final earned rating has been determined. This process ensures that the applicant's qualifications are assessed accurately based solely on their merit before any adjustments for veterans' preference are made. Once the scores are established, the additional points for veterans’ preference are then applied, which can help to promote veteran candidates in the hiring process.

This approach allows for a clear distinction between the assessment of an applicant's qualifications and the incorporation of preference points, adhering to the principles of fairness and equality in evaluation while recognizing the service of veterans. By adding these points after the final earned rating, the system maintains an unbiased initial assessment, contributing to a more effective and just selection process.