A career with the Foreign Service may appear glamorous: worldwide travel, government-paid housing, generous pay and benefits. In some instances, though, working as a Foreign Service Officer can be very challenging and sometimes dangerous. During this career you can expect to be assigned to hardship posts.
Is foreign service a good career?
It is the type of job that is incredibly rewarding and allows you to serve your country and gain a lot of fabulous and interesting experiences at the same time. Just remember, there is no one specific path into the Foreign Service and diplomatic work.
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).
How much is the salary of a Foreign Service Officer?
An FSO IV has a salary grade of 24. As per Executive Order No. 201, s. 2016, an FSO IV’s basic salary will amount to PHP 83,406, effective January 01, 2019.
Is Foreign Service stressful?
The Foreign. Service is made up of the intellectual cream—expectations are very high and the demands on oneself to achieve can produce tensions and frustrations. To admit problems and to get help before the moment of crisis can still be a problem in the Foreign Service.
Is a foreign service officer a spy?
So, let’s be clear: Foreign service officers are NOT spies. They do not work for the CIA, FBI, DIA, or anyone else in the IC (Intelligence Community). … It is very likely that you’ll have some security clearance and deal with classified information as an FSO, but you are not a spy. You’re a diplomat.
How old are most Foreign Service Officers?
Foreign Service Officer Age Breakdown
Interestingly enough, the average age of Foreign Service Officers is 40+ years old, which represents 90% of the population.
Do diplomats make a lot of money?
Salaries vary across different governments and roles, but a rough spectrum might run from $35,000 to $100,000 per year. Diplomats usually change roles every three to four years. This career is made up of a combination of overseas postings and working in their own country.
How hard is FSOT test?
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.
How long does it take to become a foreign service officer?
A safe bet is to consider the whole process, from your decision to apply to when you are offered the job, to take an average of 1.5 years. What do you do during this time? The FSO selection process consists of the: Application.
Do foreign service officers travel?
Employees posted to exceptionally dangerous posts may receive additional danger pay of up to 25% of base pay. Most Foreign Service Officers spend approximately 60% of their careers overseas. For this reason, issues such as travel to post, transportation of household effects, and housing overseas are important.
What’s it like being a foreign service officer?
A career with the Foreign Service may appear glamorous: worldwide travel, government-paid housing, generous pay and benefits. In some instances, though, working as a Foreign Service Officer can be very challenging and sometimes dangerous. During this career you can expect to be assigned to hardship posts.
Do diplomats travel a lot?
What Are the Benefits? Diplomats travel extensively, making it a great career for those who are interested in interacting with people from different cultures and customs.
How many foreign service officers are hired each year?
In recent years, more than 20,000 candidates have taken the Foreign Service Officer Test annually. A much smaller number advance to the QEP review, and then only a few hundred are invited to the Oral Assessment. Please note that Foreign Service Officer hiring targets are adjusted regularly.
Do diplomats get free housing?
It’s true that diplomats receive various benefits in addition to their salaries, like free housing. … Also, diplomats get paid annual and sick leave, and have access to special health plans, retirement plans, insurance, and student loan repayment programs (you still have to pay into these things, of course).