I Think I Got Bamboozled by DSS

So im currently active duty and shotgunned applications to multiple 1811 and 1801 jobs and i applied in August for DSS and passed their DSSAT. Fast forward to two weeks ago and i got the email requesting more documentation like transcripts and military memos. Just got email today that they are discontinuing my application because my last day in the Army is at the end of March and that the day was too far away.

I thought that was BS since these hiring processes take forever anyway im trying to minimize unemployed time after getting out and land a job quickly as well as stopping the clock since im 36.

Now im hearing i cant apply for DSS till next year. Does that seem right or should i start reaching out to some type of HR for this? Or should i just bite the bullet and take it as a closed door?