Sim rides, although relatively cheap, tend to be MUCH harder rides than the equivalent in an aircraft. Due mostly to the fact that certain things thatcan only be simulated to be failed in an aircraft, and be failed for "real" in a sim. For example: a vacuum failure might be simulated in an aircraft ...

You're right. They can't refuse to HIRE you over another candidate, but they CAN choose not to interview you.

Basically, its an easy way of cutting down that pile of 3500+ resumes. Apply anyway... what's the worst that could happen?

My suggestion, even to low time pilots, is apply anyway. If you don't apply you definitely won't be called for an interview; if you do, you might get lucky (even if it is a long shot!)

Same goes for any job out there really.