# eligibility

/ˌɛɫɪdʒəˈbɪɫɪti/ (US) · /ˌɛlɪdʒəbˈɪlɪti/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/eligibility
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

the state of being allowed to do or receive something because you meet the right rules. For example, your age or where you live might decide if you can get a job or a prize.

For teachers: the state of meeting the necessary conditions or requirements to be entitled to something. Often determined by specific criteria such as age, residency, or professional qualifications.

## Examples

- The website helps you check your eligibility for a student loan.
- The committee reviewed each application to confirm the candidate's eligibility before moving to the interview stage.
- Changes to the national pension scheme have tightened the eligibility criteria, requiring citizens to contribute for more years before they can access full benefits.

## Pitfalls

- Not "check your eligibility of the program" but "check your eligibility for the program" — Eligibility typically takes the preposition 'for' when referring to the thing one is qualified to receive.

## Usage notes

- Often followed by the preposition 'for' or an infinitive 'to' clause.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.