How to Become an FBI Special Agent

Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree

The first step toward becoming an FBI agent is earning a bachelor’s degree. The type of degree depends on which entry program an individual is interested in. Currently, five entry programs exist for special agent candidates:

• Computer science and information
• Accounting
• Foreign language
• Law
• Diversified

The diversified entry program is the most inclusive position and only specifies that applicants hold a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts. On the other hand, the accounting entry program requires applicants to have an undergraduate accounting degree.

Success Tips:

• Complete an internship: Participating in an internship can help students expand their education outside of a classroom environment and gain hands-on training in the field. Students can apply for both paid and non-paid internships directly through the FBI.
• Consider an advanced degree: While a bachelor’s degree is the required minimum for employment, possessing a higher degree could help an applicant stand out in the competitive FBI application process. A master’s degree in a field like criminology could also allow applicants to enter a more specialized special agent position.
• Build physical strength: Since a physical examination is part of the FBI hiring process, students should begin building their strength and endurance as soon as possible. Students can participate in cardiovascular and strength-training routines while still in college.

Step 2: Gain Work Experience

The average work experience required for a potential FBI special agent position is three years in a field related to his or her degree. The FBI seeks candidates with specific critical skills, including knowledge of accounting, engineering, law, the military, science, or foreign languages, so professional full-time work in these areas is preferred.

Step 3: Complete the FBI Application Process

Because of the sensitivity of FBI special agent work, all applicants must pass an extensive background check, a polygraph, and a drug test. Individuals also cannot have a felony conviction or default on student loans. The background check involves a thorough investigation into all records, including a credit check, as well as interviews with family, friends, colleagues, and other people an applicant has had contact with throughout his or her life. Thus, the background check process can take several months.

Additionally, FBI special agents must meet strict physical fitness standards. Applicants are required to complete a physical examination by a doctor and submit their medical records to the agency. They must meet specific vision and hearing requirements. They also need to pass a physical fitness self-assessment test that includes completing as many sit-ups and push-ups as possible, as well as a timed 300-meter sprint and 1.5-mile run.

Step 4: Complete FBI Academy Training

Once an applicant has passed all the requirements and tests, he or she then must complete 20 weeks of on-campus training at the FBI Academy. FBI special agent training consists of classroom time and hands-on instruction, such as firearm training, as well as online instruction. Upon completion, graduates are sworn in as FBI special agents. They are then assigned to a field office where they begin a two-year probationary period that is guided by a special agent mentor to help them apply their training to new assignments.

Success Tips:

• Pursue continuing education: FBI special agents can continue their education throughout their careers by applying for training in specialized areas of the FBI. For example, special agents interested in learning more about criminal behavior could apply for training offered by the Behavioral Science Unit of the FBI. Agents interested in learning more about counterintelligence could attend the Intelligence Training Section offered by the Academy.
• Get promoted: All FBI special agents are assigned the same government clearance level at the beginning of their career. Over time, agents become eligible for advancement to higher levels and a corresponding pay raise or promotion.