What is the purpose of veterans' preference in NJ civil service exams?

• A. To guarantee jobs for veterans.
• B. To give eligible veterans additional consideration in ranking on the eligible list.
• C. To disqualify non-veterans.
• D. To expedite appointments regardless of merit.

Answer: (B)

Veterans' preference in NJ civil service exams gives eligible veterans extra weight when ranking candidates on the eligible list. After exam scores are used to create a ranked list, eligible veterans receive additional consideration that can move them higher in position, increasing their chances of being appointed when a vacancy arises. This recognition of service does not guarantee a job, nor does it bypass the merit system or expedite appointments regardless of merit. Non-veterans are not disqualified; the preference simply shifts the ranking to favor those who’ve served, within the rules that still rely on the overall eligibility and vacancies available.