1. Acquire Your Bachelor’s Degree
To qualify to become an FBI Agent you must first obtain a bachelor’s degree. The degree that is being obtained is dependent upon the entry program you have chosen to pursue. The five entry programs are computer science and information, accounting, language, law, and diversified. An internship is a great way to get the feel for which program will suit you best. The FBI offers paid and unpaid internships. With higher education comes easier job acquisition and will better help you stand out from other applicants.
2. Gain Experience
To be considered for a position with the FBI you are required to have a minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience in your selected field. The experience gained from an internship will help build critical skills that will also improve your ability to help identify and solve problems as an FBI agent.
3. Submit Your FBI Application
An FBI application will need to be submitted as the 3rd part of the process. An extensive background check will cross reference any criminal history, credit check, and will include an interview with close relatives and friends to double check information and get an idea of your underlying character. On the second half of the application you will be required to pass a physical fitness test. The criteria are max sit-ups and push-ups, a timed 300 meter sprint, and a 1.5 mile run.
4. FBI Training Academy
If all other steps have been completed and passed the next step of the process is the FBI Training Academy. This is a 20 week program that takes place on campus. After the academy has been completed, you are sworn in as an FBI agent, assigned to a field office, and are placed on a 2 year probationary period where you will be guided by a mentor that will help you apply their training to real world problems.
5. Career Path
As a member of the FBI you are able to choose a career path which best suits your skills. Not all career paths are field jobs. There are numerous general career paths you may choose. Once completing the application process training academy applicants will be able to figure out which niche is right for them. A 3 year internship will help you narrow down which field is best for you.