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.
What is the pass rate for the foreign service exam?
The Foreign Service exam pass rate is a dismal 20% . That means that 4 out of every 5 are destined to fail in their first step to becoming an FSO.
How many times can you take the foreign service exam?
Is there a limit on the number of times a person can take the FSOT? There is no limit on the number of times an individual may sit for the FSOT . However, one must wait 12 months between each test.
What happens after you pass the Foreign Service exam?
If you successfully pass the Foreign Service Officer Test; Qualifications Evaluation Panel; Oral Assessment; security and medical clearances ; and a suitability review, you are placed on a hiring register.
How do I prepare for the Foreign Service 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 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.
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 is the highest score on the foreign service exam?
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 .
How many foreign service officers are hired each year?
In recent years, up to 17,000 candidates have taken the Foreign Service Officer Test annually. A much smaller number advance to the QEP review, and approximately 1,000 per year are invited to the Oral Assessment. It should be kept in mind that FSO hiring targets are adjusted regularly.
Is a diplomat the same thing as a foreign service officer?
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 degree do I need 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.
Can foreign service officers have tattoos?
There's no regulation banning tattoos for US diplomats .
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.
Is it hard to become 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 old are most Foreign Service Officers?
Foreign Service Officer Age Breakdown
Interestingly enough, the average age of Foreign Service Officers is 40+ years old , which represents 90% of the population.
What's it like being a Foreign Service Officer?
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.
How long should you study for foreign service exam?
If you do achieve a 154 minimum on the first three sections, your essay won't be graded. If you do not pass the exam, you have to wait a full 12 months before retaking it. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time ( at least six months ) to study and prepare for this test.
What is a good FSOT score Reddit?
tl;dr: Overall percentile for cumulative FSOT scores at or around 150 will be the mean of your component percentiles (150 is the 50th percentile). Cumulative FSOT scores farther from 150 will be greater than the mean of your components (if above 150) or less than the mean of your components (if below 150).
How long is FSOT essay?
The essay is limited to 2800 characters . A display will indicate your remaining time as you write.
How many questions is the FSOT?
As noted above, there are 60 questions on the test and only 40 minutes to complete them, so you must think fast. Our study guide contains a step-by-step video tutorial and walks candidates through test areas that tend to give test takers difficulty. Our flashcards help candidates' study on the go.
How do you pass situational Judgement on FSOT?
- Accept all the edits and say nothing to your supervisor.
- Ask to speak to your supervisor to understand the reasons for the edits.
- Accept only the edits you agree with and send the document to Washington.
- Ask your supervisor to explain how you can improve your writing skills.
What is a foreign service officer in the State Department?
A Foreign Service Officer (FSO) is a commissioned member of the United States Foreign Service . Foreign Service Officers formulate and implement the foreign policy of the United States. ... Other categories include Chiefs of mission, Ambassadors at large, Foreign Service Personnel, and Foreign Service Nationals.
Do foreign service officers travel?
Employees posted to exceptionally dangerous posts may receive additional danger pay of up to 25% of base pay. Most Foreign Service Officers spend approximately 60% of their careers overseas . For this reason, issues such as travel to post, transportation of household effects, and housing overseas are important.
How much do diplomats make a year?
How Much Do Diplomats Make? According to Glassdoor, the national average salary for a diplomat is $104,801 in the United States. Salaries vary across different governments and roles, but a rough spectrum might run from $35,000 to $100,000 per year . Diplomats usually change roles every three to four years.
Is it hard to become a diplomat?
The process to become a diplomat is a rigorous one. ... Moreover, there are always thousands of applicants for one diplomat job. However, while it is challenging to become a diplomat, becoming fluent in foreign policy and gaining experience through internships can help your chances.
How many foreign service officers have been killed?
Since the establishment of the Diplomatic Security Service, four Special Agents have died in the line of duty. As of March 2016, a further 133 locally engaged DSS staff, host country law enforcement personnel and members of the US military had been killed while undertaking diplomatic security duties.
What are the two types of foreign service officers?
- Management Officers: In charge of the embassy they are stationed at.
- Consular Officers: Work to enhance border security and protect Americans who are traveling or living abroad.
- Economic Officers: Promote the U.S. in areas of trade and economics.
Are diplomats in high demand?
How employable are diplomats? CareerExplorer rates diplomats with a D employability rating, meaning this career should provide weak employment opportunities for the foreseeable future.
Can you have ear piercings in the Coast Guard?
a. No piercing , other than those for earrings as described below, will be made through the ear, nose, tongue, chin, eyebrow, or any other body part that would be visible while in any uniform.
Do diplomats choose where they go?
The idea of living in a foreign country may sound appealing, but being a diplomat isn't always a vacation in the tropics. The Department of State website asks diplomats to serve in one of 265 embassies, and you typically do not get to choose your destination .
Is being a foreign service officer a good job?
It is the type of job that is incredibly rewarding and allows you to serve your country and gain a lot of fabulous and interesting experiences at the same time. Just remember, there is no one specific path into the Foreign Service and diplomatic work.
Can FBI agents have facial piercings?
No other facial piercings are allowed . Hair – a reasonable length, no wild styles or colors. Men's hair – no longer than bottom of the collar; no buns, ponytails or braids. Men must not have facial hair.
Can you have piercings in the CIA?
However, the Central Intelligence Agency's (CIA) website states, “ tattoos will not disqualify you from gaining employment at the CIA, and all professionally-qualified persons are encouraged to apply.” ... A visible tattoo or statement piercing may (or may not) have an effect on your employability.
