An agency may convert a student serving in an appointment under the authority in this subpart, prior to the expiration date of the appointment, to a permanent position in the competitive service within the agency without further competition if the student:

(a) Has completed the course of study leading to the baccalaureate or graduate degree (or certificate as appropriate);

(b) Has completed not less than 640 hours of current continuous employment in an appointment under § 316.902;

(c) Meets the OPM qualification standards for the position to which the student will be converted; and

(d) Meets the time-in-grade requirements in accordance with 5 CFR part 300, subpart F.