What is the term for the evaluation of PSI reports that results in a judgment on security clearance eligibility?

The term that refers to the evaluation of Personnel Security Investigation (PSI) reports, which leads to a decision regarding an individual's eligibility for security clearance, is adjudication. This process involves a thorough assessment of the findings from the PSI, where the relevant authorities review the collected information and determine whether the individual meets the necessary standards for clearance based on various criteria such as trustworthiness, reliability, and potential security risks.

Adjudication is a critical step in the security clearance process, as it ensures a systematic and fair review of an applicant’s background to safeguard sensitive information and national security interests. The decision reached during adjudication can affect an individual's ability to access classified information, making it an essential part of personnel security assessments.

Other terms mentioned relate to different aspects of the security clearance process. Continuous evaluation refers to the ongoing monitoring of individuals after they have been granted a clearance, ensuring they remain eligible over time. Investigation pertains to the comprehensive examination conducted initially to gather information about the applicant's background. Reinvestigation denotes the periodic review of an individual's clearance status, usually conducted at specified intervals to reassess their ongoing eligibility. Each of these processes plays a role in the broader security framework, but adjudication specifically addresses the evaluation that leads to a clear eligibility decision.