In civil service hiring, what does a "score band" refer to?

A "score band" in civil service hiring refers to a range of scores that groups candidates with similar qualifications, rather than ranking them strictly by individual scores. This approach acknowledges that small differences in test scores might not significantly reflect a candidate's overall abilities or suitability for the position. By utilizing score bands, organizations can create a more equitable selection process, offering opportunities to multiple candidates who demonstrate comparable qualifications. This method also helps mitigate potential biases that might arise from small variations in score performance and allows for a broader selection pool while maintaining the integrity of the assessment process.

In contrast to a rigid ranking or a fixed hiring score, the score band approach provides flexibility and is often used to enhance fairness in the hiring process.