At this point in their careers, FSOs can settle into a niche area of foreign service and tailor their future placements to fit their unique interests and abilities. For example, some foreign service officers choose to focus the remainder of their time in the field working with a specific country or region.

Where do foreign service officers go?

FSOs spend most of their careers overseas as members of U.S. embassies, consulates, and other diplomatic missions, though some receive assignments to serve at combatant commands, Congress, and educational institutions such as the various U.S. War Colleges.

How are foreign service officers assigned?

Foreign Service officers are appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate (see section 302(a)(1) of the Act) after having served under a limited appointment as a career candidate (see section 306 of the Act).

Do foreign service officers travel?

One of the main attractions of the Foreign Service is the opportunity to travel. Officers generally spend two years at a post for their first two tours; afterwards, they move on to three or four years at each post. Each time a tour comes to a close, officers must bid for new positions.

What do foreign service officers Major?

RELATED MAJORSArea Studies.Global Studies.History.International Business.International Relations.Peace and Conflict Resolution Studies.Political Science and Government.Prelaw Studies.

How much do foreign affairs officers make?

The average salary for a Foreign Affairs Officer is $107,308 per year in United States, which is 1% lower than the average U.S. Department of State salary of $109,493 per year for this job.

Do Foreign Service Officers live at the embassy?

Most Foreign Service Officers spend approximately 60% of their careers overseas. 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.

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.

Do Foreign Service Officers fly for free?

The United States government pays the travel expenses incurred by Foreign Service Officers and their dependents when traveling to overseas assignments. The government also will pay for one overseas round-trip ticket each year per dependent attending high school or college in the United States.

What should I major in if I want to be 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 bachelors and then masters degree in a major like international relations, political science, cultural anthropology, sociology, or foreign policy.

How do you become a foreign affairs officer?

Completion of a bachelors degree is usually required. A graduate degree or several years of experience may be an asset. Proficiency in French and/or other foreign languages may also be an asset. Acceptance to the foreign service is also based on a competitive exam.

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 regions cost of living.

How old are most Foreign Service Officers?

Interestingly enough, the average age of foreign service officers is 40+ years old, which represents 89% of the population.

How hard is it to pass the FSOT?

The FSOT is a very challenging exam with a low pass-rate (hovering between just 30% and 50% of test takers).

How old are Foreign Service Officers?

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 bachelors degree or higher.

Is it easy 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.

Is the FSOT exam hard?

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 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.

Is it hard to be 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).

Do Foreign Service Officers take a polygraph?

No. Foreign Service employees are not required to take a polygraph examination at any point in their career with the State Department as a condition for maintaining their employment.