Originally Posted by
FliesWay2Much
Yes -- virtually all agencies start someone with a BS/BA at the 7 or 9 level for entry-level employees.
That's not my recollection. I believe a BA/BS generally qualifies for GS-5, a BA/BS with Superior Academic Achievement (whatever it's called) or one year of graduate education qualifies for a GS-7, and an MA/MS qualifies for GS-9. At least that's how it's been in the thousands of job postings I've read over the years.
Here's a quote from a current DEA opening for support staff:
Grade 05: Qualifying experience for the GS-5 level includes one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-4 level or four years of education above the high school level.
Grade 07: Qualifying experience for the GS-7 level includes one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-6 level.
SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION FOR EXPERIENCE: The experience requirements for the GS-7 level may be met by completion of one (1) year of graduate level education (18 semester/27 quarter hours) in a position-related field of law enforcement, inspection or compliance.