How long does it take to become a Foreign Service Officer?
A safe bet is to consider the whole process, from your decision to apply to when you are offered the job, to take an average of 1.5 years. What do you do during this time? The FSO selection process consists of the: Application.
What are the requirements to be a Foreign Service Officer?
To enter the Foreign Service, you must be an American citizen between the ages of 20 and 59 and, although there is no educational requirement to become a Foreign Service officer, the vast majority of applicants hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Do Foreign Service Officers pick where they go?
As part of this process, you will perform two to three years on average of consular work, and should expect an assignment to at least one hardship post. You are given the opportunity to express your preference for postings from a list of positions available at the time of entry into the Foreign Service.
How old is the average Foreign Service Officer?
Foreign Service Officer Age Breakdown
Interestingly enough, the average age of Foreign Service Officers is 40+ years old, which represents 90% of the population.
How hard is it to pass the Foreign Service exam?
The FSOT is a very challenging exam with a low pass-rate (hovering between just 30% and 50% of test takers). So you should not underestimate the need to study for this test. … In addition to a great overview of all the subjects, it provides a straightforward and highly-effective plan for using your study time well.
How can I join the Foreign Service?
Eight Steps to Becoming a Foreign Service Officer (FSO)
- Choose a Career Track.
- Register for the Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT)
- Take the Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT)
- Submit Personal Narratives for the QEP Review.
- Take the Foreign Service Oral Assessment.
- Clearances: Medical and Security.
- Suitability Review Panel.
Can you quit Foreign Service?
Although there is nominally an objective system in place, Foreign Service officers seeking to secure a desirable post can do an end run around the official process by leveraging their networks to obtain an informal “handshake” offer.
Do foreign service officers carry guns?
Applicants must be willing to use and carry firearms throughout their career. Applicants must not have been convicted of any felony charge or be prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Is a Foreign Service Officer a spy?
So, let’s be clear: Foreign service officers are NOT spies. They do not work for the CIA, FBI, DIA, or anyone else in the IC (Intelligence Community). … It is very likely that you’ll have some security clearance and deal with classified information as an FSO, but you are not a spy. You’re a diplomat.
What should I study for the Foreign Service exam?
You can be sure the written exam will ask you about geography, political structures, and modern world conflicts. Make a habit of reading The Economist, The New York Times, Foreign Policy, and other renowned current events periodicals.
How do you become a UN diplomat?
How to Become a Diplomat. A diplomat must be versed in foreign relations; therefore, the most recognizable route to a career in diplomacy is a bachelor’s and then master’s degree in a major like international relations, political science, cultural anthropology, sociology, or foreign policy.
Is Foreign Service Officer a good job?
A career with the Foreign Service may appear glamorous: worldwide travel, government-paid housing, generous pay and benefits. In some instances, though, working as a Foreign Service Officer can be very challenging and sometimes dangerous. During this career you can expect to be assigned to hardship posts.
Can you become a Foreign Service Officer in your 40s?
At least 20 years old and no older than 59 years of age on the day you submit your registration. At least 21 years old and not yet 60 on the day you are appointed as a Foreign Service Officer.”
Where do Foreign Service Officers get stationed?
So, what’s the difference? Foreign Service employees live and work overseas, and in Washington, D.C., and represent America abroad; Civil Service employees support the mission from Washington, D.C. or other locations around the United States.
Where do US foreign service officers live?
Housing for Foreign Service Officers varies around the world. In many overseas posts, Foreign Service Officers live in accommodations that are either owned or leased by United States government. Often, these accommodations are furnished.