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.
What score do you need to pass the Foreign Service exam?
What’s a good score on the FSOT? A passing score is a good score. Passing is
154 and above on the multiple choice and 6 or above on the essay
. You’ll get your results about 3 weeks after taking the test.
How long is the Foreign Service Officer test?
The Foreign Service Officer Test measures your knowledge, skills and abilities, including writing skills that are necessary to the work of a Foreign Service Officer. The FSOT is administered online at designated test centers in the U.S. and abroad and takes
about three hours
to complete.
How do I prepare for the Foreign Service Officer exam?
Tips for acing the written exam: Know your current events! 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 competitive is becoming a foreign service officer?
The search for extraordinary U.S. citizens to serve as Foreign Service Officers is intense and the qualifying process is rigorous, demanding
and highly competitive
. If you are interested in becoming a Foreign Service Officer (FSO), you must first register for and take the Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT).
How much does an entry level Foreign Service officer make?
THE base salary for entry-level Foreign Service officers ranges from
about $40,000 to $72,000 annually
, but compensation can increase depending on the danger level of the posting and on a region’s cost of living.
How many foreign service officers are hired each year?
FSOT. Over the past year, much attention has been paid to the number of test takers for the Foreign Service Officer Test, which is usually seen as a proxy for interest in a Foreign Service career. In calendar year 2019,
9,294 people
took the FSOT—not unusual if we look at the past 20 years or so.
How much do diplomats make a year?
Salary Ranges for Foreign Diplomats
The salaries of Foreign Diplomats in the US range from
$68,600 to $187,200
, with a median salary of $175,110 . The middle 50% of Foreign Diplomats makes $111,040, with the top 75% making $187,200.
Do Foreign Service officers pay taxes?
If you are a U. S. citizen working for the US Government, including the Foreign Service, and you are stationed abroad, your income tax filing requirements are generally the same as those for citizens and residents living in the United States.
You are taxed on your worldwide income
, even though you live and work abroad.
What is the highest possible score on the FSOT?
A 154 is the minimum passing score on the multiple-choice portion, including Job Knowledge, English Expression, and Situation Judgment. This means that scores from 160-179 are average, 180, and above are impressive. These are all out of a maximum score of
200
.
Do foreign service officers choose where they go?
For example, some foreign service officers choose
to focus the remainder of their time in the field working with a specific country or region
. Others declare an affinity for a type of placement at this time.
Is a foreign service officer a diplomat?
Becoming a Foreign Service Officer (FSO) is one way to
serve as an American diplomat
. The mission of a U.S. diplomat in the Foreign Service is to promote peace, support prosperity, and protect American citizens while advancing the interests of the U.S. abroad.
What is a good score on the FSOT?
What’s a good score on the FSOT? A passing score is a good score.
Passing is 154 and above on the multiple choice
and 6 or above on the essay. You’ll get your results about 3 weeks after taking the test.
Is there math on the FSOT?
This exam consists of questions related to many subjects: geography, history, math, economics, culture, English, and even a biographical report section. In addition to passing the exam, applicants may need to take an Oral Assessment, obtain a medical or security clearance, and more.
What should I study for the FSOT?
To improve or refresh your general knowledge, you might want to read a
book or two about history, politics, or international relations
. Another good idea is taking lots of FSOT practice exams. I took all the practice exams I could find online and I made copious notes.
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.
