Foreign Service Exams-- Who has taken before?

Question

I am interested in joining the Foreign Service after university completion, though I have heard that the examination process is very difficult to pass-- just wondering, to the ones who have taken the exams before-- how hard was it exactly, and how many times did you have to take it before successfully passing the written and oral exams? Any answers would be appreciated, thanks!

Answer 1

I took the Foreign Service written exam once, back in 2001 and failed.  It had a bunch of multiple choice questions and a few essay questions.  I think it had some true or false questions but I can´t remember.  All I know is that they just sent me a letter telling me I failed it, but didn´t tell me my grade, if I almost passed, or if I was nowhere near passing.  They didn´t even inform me if I had done better on some sections than others.  That´s what makes the test so hard, to take it again I wouldn´t have had any idea what areas to work on.  Study up on your US history and good luck!

Answer 2

The test is difficult to pass, and most people don't pass on the first try.

That being said, they are completely revamping the exam this year.  It is no longer only going to be offered once a year but multiple, and they are going to have it all computerized.  They are also going to take into consideration resumes, experience, and other qualifications, besides just the test.

What will remain are the multiple choice questions, which are on basic knowledge of the US (history, economics, government, etc), cone specific questions (based on what you chose, Management, Poltical, Economic, Public Diplomacy, and Consular), biographic questions (which are not scored), english expression, and an essay.  The format and the process will be a little different, with those taking the test for the first time this year being guinea pigs.

The Oral exam will remain the same.  You have to pass the written to take the oral exam.  Here, you are placed in a group and assigned tasks to work together.  There is more to it of course, but you are generally not allowed to talk about the format outside of the test (sorry!).