What is the functional difference between an eligibility rule and a validation rule for a...

An eligibility rule determines whether a worker qualifies for the leave type. Workday evaluates eligibility against the requested leave’s start date and displays only the leave types for which the worker is eligible. Eligibility rules are attached through Additional Criteria on the leave type’s Details tab and must use Worker- or Position-based information because Workday evaluates qualification before it has complete leave-event information.

A validation rule evaluates whether an otherwise eligible request complies with policy. Workday can apply the validation to each requested day when the request is submitted. A failed validation can produce a hard error, preventing submission, or a soft warning that allows the request to continue for review. Examples include preventing a request that exceeds the worker’s entitlement or generating a warning when supporting conditions are not satisfied.

Eligibility therefore controls access to the leave type; validation controls the acceptability of a particular request. Neither function replaces segmented security, accrual-frequency configuration, payroll processing, or benefits administration. Option B correctly describes both the timing and functional purpose of the two rule types.