In principle, to be hired in the public sector you need a diploma or its equivalent, to prove your level of education and give you access to the corresponding job and salary levels.

If you do not have the required diploma, you can access the desired level by obtaining the corresponding access card (level A = Master, B = Bachelor or C = CESS/DSO), through a test organised by TravaillerPour (formerly Selor, the official recruiter for the federal administration).

However, there are other ways of applying to the civil service without a diploma. Here are some alternatives:

1. Some public authorities may dispense with the CESS requirement, under certain specific conditions.
2. Professional experience may sometimes replace the CESS.
3. Specific training or professional qualifications may be recognised as equivalent to the CESS, depending on the criteria of the public employer.
4. Public administrations sometimes organise internal competitions with different requirements. Employees already working in the civil service can use this route to progress without the CESS.
5. Access Card C: The Royal Decree of 29 January 2013, amending that of 25 April 2005, stipulates that if a person has passed a test and obtained their Access Card C, they may apply with a CESS level.
6. If you have all the qualifications for a job that are covered by the Validation of Competences, you will have access to level C in the civil service.

To gain access to the A, B and C access cards in the Flemish civil service without a diploma, there are specific procedures for proving your skills and professional experience. The VDAB offers help and access cards in the form of a portfolio. Here are the links:

Working for the Flemish administration: information and form
Recruitment of candidates with non-degree qualifications

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