An agency may convert a student serving in an appointment under the authority in this subpart, prior to the expiration date of the appointment, to a permanent position in the competitive service within the agency without further competition if the student:

1. (a) Has completed the course of study leading to the baccalaureate or graduate degree;
2. (b) Has completed not less than 640 hours of current continuous employment in an appointment under § 316.902;
3. (c) Meets the OPM qualification standards for the position to which the student will be converted; and
4. (d) Meets the time-in-grade requirements in accordance with 5 CFR part 300, subpart F.

[86 FR 46107, Aug. 18, 2021, as amended at 91 FR 7810, Feb. 19, 2026]