Understanding the SES Candidate Development Program (SESCDP)

The following post explores Understanding the SES Candidate Development Program (SESCDP).

Are you a GS13 – GS15 federal employee looking to advance your career into the SES? Good news: SESCDP offers a structured path for reaching the highest levels of public service.

Read: Tips for Selecting Your ECQ Stories

Related: Best Federal Resume Writing Services

SES roles are highly competitive and sought after. As such, earning admission into an SESCDP is equally competitive and highly desired by federal employees looking to advance into the SES.

Here’s what you need to know.

SES Overview

First, what is the Senior Executive Service (SES)?

The Senior Executive Service (SES) represents the next level beyond the GS-1 to GS-15 pay scale, encompassing top-tier leadership and executive positions within the federal government.

The SES is a group of federal executives who serve in managerial, supervisory, and policy roles. Unlike political appointees who are hired by the President – SES members are appointed through a competitive process.

SESCDP Overview

The Senior Executive Service Candidate Development Program (SESCDP) is a highly competitive program used by federal government agencies for preparing aspiring senior executive leaders for future SES roles.

In essence, it’s a succession management tool. Participants are groomed for senior executive positions by learning to manage complex projects, lead teams, and navigate federal government intricacies.

Every SESCDP is a little different (depending on the role and agency). Generally speaking, an SESCDP must lasts up to 9 months and includes the following requirements:

• A structured Executive Development Plan (EDP) approved by the agency’s Executive Resources Board (ERB)
• At least 100 hours of formal training covering topics such as strategic planning, financial management, human capital, and accountability
• A 120-day executive-level developmental assignment outside of the candidate’s current role
• At least 10 hours of executive mentoring and 10 hours of coaching
• Completion of validated executive assessments, both at entry and during the program
• Participation of candidates from outside the agency (minimum 20% of each cohort)

Graduates of the SESCDP may be eligible for appointment to the SES upon receiving certification by the Qualifications Review Board (QRB).

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the SESCDP, candidates must meet the following general criteria:

• Current federal employment at the GS13, GS14, or GS15 level
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage projects, and solve complex problems
• A strong record of performance in prior federal service
• A bachelor’s degree or higher (many candidates hold advanced degrees)
• Readiness to advance into executive leadership roles and complete rigorous assessments and developmental experiences

How to Get Notified

All SESCDPs are publicly announced on USAJOBS.gov. Programs must remain open for applications for at least 14 days.

To create a saved search:

• Log in to your USAJOBS.gov account
• Navigate to Saved Searches
• Create a new search with “Candidate Development Program” in the job title field
• Set your notification preferences to receive daily or weekly updates

Applying to an SESCDP

Applying to an SESCDP typically requires a Federal Resume, Cover Letter, and additional materials that demonstrate your executive leadership potential (such as ECQs).

Agencies may have slightly different application procedures, so it’s essential to carefully review the SESCDP announcement on USAJOBS.gov and follow the instructions exactly as written.

Most programs will require you to:

• Submit your application through USAJOBS during the open window (minimum of 14 days)
• Address each ECQ thoughtfully using the CCAR (Challenge-Context-Action-Result) format
• Prepare for pre-admission assessments
• Verify that your Federal Resume clearly reflects executive-level experience

It’s also a good idea to set up a saved search on USAJOBS using the keywords “Candidate Development Program” to receive alerts when new opportunities open.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, I hope this article helps with understanding the SES Candidate Development Program and how it can serve as a valuable pathway to advancing your federal career to the highest levels of leadership.