how to become a diplomat

Overview

The U.S. Department of State leads America's foreign policy efforts, advancing our nation's interests and national security. Diplomats represent and further the interests and policies of the United States while serving overseas.

Foreign Service Officer

how to become a diplomat 8 steps

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. Any high school graduate at least 20 years of age is eligible to become a Foreign Service Officer.

The successful FSO candidate demonstrates the skills, abilities, and personal qualities needed to be a diplomat. Diplomats must stay calm in stressful or difficult situations and be able to think on their feet, adjusting quickly to changing situations. They must be able to work with people from other cultures with different values, political beliefs, and religions. Diplomats need strong analytical, organizational, and leadership skills. They must have good judgment and high integrity. In addition, they must be able to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally. They must be able to learn at least one foreign language, often several, during their careers. Finally, they must be resourceful and creative problem solvers.

While there is no specific academic degree or professional experience required to become an FSO, all applicants must undergo a rigorous selection process . This consists of:

A written Foreign Service Officer Test
A written personal narrative
An oral interview combined with role-playing exercises
A medical & security clearance review

The application then goes to a Suitability Review Panel for one last look before an applicant's name is placed on the Registrar of selected candidates eligible to be offered a position in the U.S. Foreign Service.

Foreign Service Specialist

The U.S. Department of State also employs many non-FSOs, people with specialized skills such as doctors and nurses, IT specialists, security agents, construction engineers, and English teachers, among others. There is a separate selection process for them .

Preparation for a Career in Diplomacy

Keeping up with current events around the world is important for any aspiring Foreign Service Officer.

Keeping up with current events around the world is important for any aspiring Foreign Service Officer.
(© AP Photo/Robert Tong)

Test Preparation

Staying up to date with current events and following the suggested reading are ways you can prepare for the exam. FSOs must be well-informed and knowledgeable on topics such as current world and national affairs, economics, history, public affairs, and management. The topics covered on the test include communication, computers, grammar, economics, management principles, mathematics and statistics, political science, U.S. society and culture, world history, and geography. Since this knowledge is usually gathered gradually over time, the best foundation is a solid education and personal habits such as reading, learning, and expanding one's understanding of the world.

Student Diplomats

The State Department offers a variety of internships and fellowships in Washington D.C. and abroad in our embassies and consulates. These experiences show students diplomacy in action and the day-to-day of a career in the foreign or civil service.