Statement of merit criteria
The document setting out the criteria against which candidates are assessed.
Plain English
The document listing everything a candidate is assessed against for a position.
If you’re new here
Treat it as the marking scheme. Your application should map to it point by point.
What they probably mean
“The answer key for the application you're about to write.”
Interpretation offered as humour, not authoritative guidance.
Bureaucracy level
How much government-speak this phrase carries. Playful indicator, not a judgement of anyone using it.
Related terms
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Important
GC Simplified is an independent tool, not affiliated with or endorsed by the Government of Canada, and it does not provide official advice. Plain language is an interpretation, and interpretations can be wrong. Always verify against the source and your organization’s own guidance before acting.