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.
What is 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 much does a foreign diplomat make?
Someone with a BA can anticipate a starting salary around $30,000, and the pay structure is similar to that in other government organizations. Senior foreign service officials can make over $100,000 per year.
Do you need a degree to become 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.
What should I major in to become a foreign service officer?
Since work in the foreign service requires knowledge of America’s culture, government and economy, plus the capacity to become an expert on other societies, majoring in political science, history, economics, sociology, anthropology, foreign languages and literatures or international relations could prove especially …
How many foreign service officers are hired each year?
2017/2018 FSO HIRING STATS Hiring of Generalist FSOs went down from 353 in fiscal year 2016, to 220 in fiscal year 2017. In early 2018, the Department announced their intention to hire only 101 new Foreign Service officers (including 55 Pickering and Rangel Fellows) for the year.
How long is foreign service officer training?
five to six weeks
What is on the FSOT test?
The FSOT consists of four parts: a written exam, a personal narrative, an oral assessment, and finally, a security clearance.
What happens after you pass the FSOT?
AFTER THE EXAM You can expect your results emailed within 3-5 weeks of sitting for the FSOT. If you are successful, you will move to the next step of the assessment process: submitting Personal Narratives (PNs) to the Qualifications Evaluation Panel (QEP).
What do foreign officers do?
According to the U.S. Department of State, foreign service officers aim to “promote peace, support prosperity, and protect American citizens while advancing the interests of the U.S. abroad.” This mission statement accurately represents just how extensive a foreign service officer’s responsibilities can be.
How does one become a 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.