Federal Bureau of Investigation

Intelligence Analyst Selection Process

Candidate Information

FIDELITY / BRAVERY / INTEGRITY

FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process

TABLE OF
CONTENTS
GENERAL INFORMATION
Welcome......................................................................................................................................................................................................4
Mission. Priorities. Values.....................................................................................................................................................................5
The Big Picture..........................................................................................................................................................................................6
Intelligence Analyst Selection Process (IASP)............................................................................................................................. 7
Minimum Qualifications for the Intelligence Analyst .................................................................................................................9
Backgrounds of Interest .................................................................................................................................................................... 10
Critical Skills and Abilities ................................................................................................................................................................... 11
Intelligence Analyst Career Paths................................................................................................................................................... 16
In the Field or at Headquarters ........................................................................................................................................................ 17
FBI Employment Requirements........................................................................................................................................................ 18

PREPARING FOR THE ASSESSMENTS

Testing Guidelines ................................................................................................................................................................................ 20
Test-Taking Tips..................................................................................................................................................................................... 22

PHASE I: TESTING
Overview................................................................................................................................................................................................... 23
Working Style and Preferences Part I.......................................................................................................................................... 24
Problem Solving Part I......................................................................................................................................................................... 27
Problem Solving Part I Answer Key............................................................................................................................................... 32
Problem Solving Part II....................................................................................................................................................................... 33
Working Style and Preferences Part II.........................................................................................................................................34

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process

PHASE II: WRITING ASSESSMENT

Overview................................................................................................................................................................................................... 35
Tips for the Writing Assessment ................................................................................................................................................... 35

PHASE III: STRUCTURED INTERVIEW

Overview................................................................................................................................................................................................... 36
Tips for the Structured Interview .................................................................................................................................................. 36
Travel Arrangements for Phase III ................................................................................................................................................. 36
Failure to Report for Phase III .......................................................................................................................................................... 37

RETESTING
Phase I Retesting.................................................................................................................................................................................. 38
Phase II Retesting................................................................................................................................................................................. 38
Phase III Retesting................................................................................................................................................................................ 38

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
General Information

General Information

Welcome
Now more than ever, members of the global intelligence workforce must seamlessly combine their talents to
protect the nation. The FBI continues to evolve into a threat-based, intelligence-driven organization that has
expertise in identifying risks to our national security and an unrivaled ability to mitigate them. At the FBI, we
work diligently to play our part in the global Intelligence Community. We execute our intelligence strategy via
defined Intelligence Analyst career paths, rigorous selection processes and comprehensive training programs.

FBI Intelligence Analysts are on the front line of protecting America’s national security. They piece together
disparate bits of information to form integrated views on issues of national security and public safety by:

» Utilizing language, cultural and historical knowledge » Shaping intelligence policies by maintaining
to combat international threats by working within extensive networks and partnering with local,
specifically defined geographical and/or functional national and international contacts within the
areas (e.g., China program, Weapons of Mass intelligence and law enforcement communities.
Destruction program, Al-Qaeda program, etc.) » Leveraging contacts and information to prepare
» Discovering threats by leveraging local and national briefings, reports and communications for senior
intelligence databases, analyzing intelligence FBI executives and other Intelligence Community
collected in the Field Offices and developing and Law Enforcement entities.
fact-based conclusions and intelligence reports.

The purpose of this guide is to assist individuals who are preparing for the Intelligence Analyst Selection Process
(IASP). This guide is organized into sections according to testing and hiring requirements.

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
General Information

Mission. Priorities. Values.

The mission of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is to protect the American people and uphold the
Constitution of the United States.

The priorities of the FBI are to: The core values of the FBI are:

1. Protect the United States from terrorist attacks. » Rigorous obedience to the Constitution of the
2. Protect the United States against foreign United States.
intelligence operations and espionage. » Respect for the dignity of all those we protect.
3. Protect the United States against cyberattacks » Compassion
and high-technology crimes. » Fairness
4. Combat public corruption at all levels. » Uncompromising personal and institutional integrity.
5. Protect civil rights. » Accountability by accepting responsibility for our
6. Combat transnational/national criminal actions and decisions, and the consequences of
organizations and enterprises. our actions and decisions.
7. Combat major white-collar crime. » Leadership, both personal and professional.
8. Combat significant violent crime. » Diversity

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
General Information

The Big Picture

The Intelligence Analyst Selection Process (IASP) is the result of a comprehensive study of the competencies
required for the Intelligence Analyst position at the FBI. This flow chart is a snapshot of the IASP. A more in-depth
explanation of the critical skills and abilities required, as well as an explanation of the steps in the process to
becoming an Intelligence Analyst, can be found on the next page.

STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5

Application Preliminary Phase I: Phase II: Phase III:
Screening Testing Writing Structured
Assessment Interview

STEP 9 STEP 8 STEP 7 STEP 6

Basic Field ONE Seminar Background Conditional
Training Investigation Offer
Course (BFTC)

FINISH:
OFFICIAL DUTY LOCATION

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
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Intelligence Analyst Selection Process (IASP)

Steps 1-2: Application and Preliminary Screening
You must attach all necessary forms (as listed in the vacancy announcement) to your application. Applications are
screened for eligibility and suitability.

Steps 3-5: Testing and Interview

Applicants who pass the preliminary screening, as outlined in the job posting, will be contacted to begin the
three-phase selection process. Candidates must successfully complete one phase before moving to the next.

» Phase I: Computer-based tests » Phase II: Written exercise simulat- » Phase III: Structured interview
focused on problem solving, work ing the Intelligence Analyst’s role assessing oral communication,
styles and personal preferences. in reviewing intelligence and interpersonal skills, organizing and
preparing an intelligence product. planning and analytical thinking.

Step 6: Conditional Job Offer

Candidates who pass all three phases are eligible to receive a Conditional Job Offer (CJO) for employment as
an Intelligence Analyst. The CJO will include the position title, GS pay grade and salary. Conditional job offers
are contingent upon signing the FBI mobility agreement, a favorable adjudication in the background investigation
process, budgetary requirements and meeting the critical skills needed by the FBI.

Step 7: FBI Background Investigation

Candidates who receive a conditional job offer will need to obtain a Top Secret/SCI (Sensitive Compartmented
Information) Clearance from the FBI in order to start working as an Intelligence Analyst. The background investigation
includes a polygraph examination, credit and arrest checks, interviews with associates, references, past employers
and neighbors and verification of educational achievements.

Timeframe: The average background investigation takes approximately six to 18 months, but may take longer
depending on where an applicant has lived, worked or traveled.

Step 8: ONE Seminar

All new or current employees with the Bureau, regardless of job or duty station, attend a four-day onboarding
seminar at the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA, during their first week. This includes learning about the FBI’s mission,
history, structure and culture; briefings on ethics, security and Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO); a tour of
Quantico; and opportunities to begin developing an FBI network. The FBI’s Leadership Doctrine is emphasized
as well — new employees are introduced to the meaning of leadership in the FBI.

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Step 9: Basic Field Training Course (BFTC)

All newly hired Intelligence Analysts must attend and successfully complete the FBI Basic Field Training Course
(BFTC) at the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA. The BFTC is a mandatory 12-week training course designed to
ensure that graduates attain the necessary proficiencies in the specialized knowledge, skills and abilities
needed to effectively perform the duties of an FBI Intelligence Analyst.

As a condition of continued employment, all FBI Intelligence Analysts will be required to successfully complete
the course. Successful completion of the course is defined as meeting both academic and suitability standards.
Failure to successfully complete the BFTC may result in dismissal from the FBI.

For more information about the BFTC, see Frequently Asked Questions (page 39) and the BFTC Guide on the
Special Agents career page.

Finish: Placement
Upon successful completion of the background investigation and BFTC, candidates officially join the FBI as
Intelligence Analysts. New Intelligence Analysts may be placed either at Headquarters or in a specific Field Office
based on the posting applied for and/or the needs of the FBI. Placement is at the discretion of the FBI and based
on Bureau needs at that time.

IMPORTANT
Successful completion of the Basic Field Training Course
is mandatory for all incoming Intelligence Analysts.

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Minimum Qualifications for the Intelligence Analyst

The FBI recruits and hires Intelligence Analysts of all levels of experience, from college seniors to highly
experienced professionals. Intelligence Analysts generally enter the FBI at the GS-7 level with an undergraduate
degree and at the GS-9 level with a graduate degree. Candidates should keep in mind that if they apply to a
vacancy for a GS-7 to GS-9, they will be considered only for those grades listed in the vacancy.

Education and experience requirements vary depending on the job role and grade of the position. The Intelligence
Analyst position is part of the 0132 job series.

Serving as an Intelligence Analyst is a very demanding job with strict entry requirements. To become an FBI
Intelligence Analyst, you must be a U.S. citizen, able to pass the FBI Background Investigation and obtain a Top
Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) Clearance and maintain the clearance throughout your FBI career.

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Backgrounds of Interest
Education and experience requirements vary depending on the job role and grade (GS) of the position. Below is a list
of potential backgrounds of interest for the Intelligence Analyst position:

Work Experience and/or Areas of Study

» Area Studies (Middle East, Asia, Africa, China, Far East) » Forensic Accounting
» Biochemistry » Forensic Science
» Biology » Geography (Concentration in
» Bioterrorism Geospatial Information Science)

» Chemistry » History

» Counterterrorism » Intelligence

» Criminal Justice » International Law

» Cybersecurity » International Relations/International Studies

» Engineering (Aeronautical, Chemical, » Political Science

Electrical, Mechanical, Nuclear) » Physics
» English » Telecommunications
» Finance » Terrorism/International Terrorism

Domain Expertise
Culture
» Central Asia » Korea
» China » Middle East

Languages
» Albanian » Korean
» Arabic » Pashto
» Chinese » Punjabi
» Dari » Russian
» Farsi » Urdu
» Hebrew » Vietnamese
» Indonesian

Each position requires its own unique subject matter expertise; however, the aforementioned are examples of
sought-after Intelligence Analyst backgrounds. Candidates with additional backgrounds and experiences are
encouraged and hired into the FBI on an as-needed basis.

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
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Critical Skills and Abilities

FBI Intelligence Analysts are on the front line of protecting America’s national security. They piece together disparate bits
of information to form integrated views on issues of national security and public safety. Most Intelligence Analysts spend
time writing intelligence reports to share with the wider Intelligence Community. The ability to communicate and partner
with Special Agents, analysts and other members of the intelligence workforce ensures that intelligence is disseminated
to the proper stakeholders. As a result, certain critical skills and abilities are required of all Intelligence Analysts:

Oral Communication
» Adapt speaking style and comments to the audience. » Listen and attend to others.
» Speak clearly, audibly and fluently, using appropriate » Speak in a concise and logical manner.
grammar and appropriate vocabulary.

Nonverbal Communication
» Use nonverbal behavior to convey a message or signal. » Accurately interpret nonverbal behavior or cues
» Use appropriate nonverbal behavior when delivering from others.
oral briefings.

Written Communication
» Write clearly and concisely in English, using appropri- » Communicate abstract concepts in writing with the use
ate spelling, grammar, punctuation, style and level of of graphs or other visual elements where appropriate.
detail for the intended audience and purpose. » Extract pertinent details from various sources of
information and summarize them logically and
effectively in writing.

Maintain a Professional Image

» Maintain a professional demeanor at all times to » Maintain a sense of honesty, integrity, responsibility
represent the FBI professionally in all situations. and optimism.
» Conduct one’s self in a way that develops trust » Maintain a professional demeanor in emotionally
and confidence in others. charged situations.

Critical Thinking and Information Evaluation

» Gather and analyze information and draw » Discern relevance, merits and deficiencies in logic
well-reasoned conclusions. and evaluate the credibility of information.
» Use a logical and systematic approach to analyze » Integrate diverse information to detect relationships,
data, problems and situations. patterns and trends.
» Differentiate between relevant and irrelevant information.

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Adaptive Analytic Thinking

» Re-evaluate conclusions and hypotheses based on » Recognize “dead ends” and redirect analytic efforts
new information. to more promising lines of inquiry.
» Quickly change course based on new information.

Proactive Analytic Thinking

» Conceptualize the “next steps” required to move » Proactively identify the root causes of problems.
processes/analyses forward. » Integrate ideas to formulate next steps.
» Maintain the logical progression required to complete » Progress quickly and easily to logical conclusions.
an analytic process.
» Use existing information to develop new questions
» Identify the point at which enough data has been or lines of inquiry.
collected/analyzed to come to a sound judgment
or decision.

Synthesize Information
» Seek, evaluate and integrate a variety of perspectives to » Maintain awareness of changing conditions, current
increase your own and others’ understanding of an issue events and the cultural and historical contexts that
based on new information and alternative viewpoints. may affect one’s work.
» Integrate information from multiple sources. » Forecast next steps based on gathered data and a
» Connect or relate dissimilar concepts to create current understanding of the situation.
new ideas.

Problem Detection
» Identify multiple possible causes of a problem. » Separate larger problems into meaningful parts and
use logic and judgment to determine the accuracy
and relevance of observations.

Problem Resolution
» Use abstract concepts to solve problems. » Generate alternative solutions to a problem, consider
» Decide on and commit to a reasonable course of action. risks and choose the best alternative.
» Make reasonable judgments or interpretations when
dealing with incomplete or conflicting information.

Structure and Plan Own Work Activities

» Set priorities appropriately for own work and resources. » Manage multiple activities simultaneously to
» Determine short- or long-term goals for own work complete all within prescribed times.
and develop strategies to achieve those goals. » Estimate amount of time required to complete
» Coordinate own work with other parts of the own work assignments.
organization to accomplish goals. » Organize own work and determine resource
» Monitor progress of own work and evaluate outcomes. requirements.

» Use available time and resources effectively. » Create an organized plan for work activities
(e.g., briefings, investigations).
» Anticipate problems and develop contingencies to
avoid or deal with them.

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Relate Effectively with Others

» Assess individuals/situations and adjust own » Exhibit willingness to help coworkers.
interpersonal style to interact effectively with others. » Relate well to people with diverse cultural and other
» Build rapport and trust with others. backgrounds, work experiences and organizational roles.
» Compromise when appropriate to resolve disagreements. » Exercise tact and diplomacy when interacting with others.
» Work well and cooperate with others to accomplish » Exhibit patience with others.
group assignments and meet deadlines.

Demonstrate Interpersonal Sensitivity

» Interact with others in a respectful and unbiased manner. » Demonstrate awareness of the impact of own
» Listen to others’ ideas, comments and suggestions. behavior on others.

» Demonstrate sensitivity to the needs of others. » Demonstrate empathy with challenging situations or
difficult topics.

Detail Orientation
» Notice and focus on the details of a situation. » Include all details in an analysis, including those
» Record information accurately. from other people or resources.
» Ensure work is complete, accurate and without error.

Initiative and Motivation

» Demonstrate the effort and initiative necessary » Maintain focus with ambiguous or monotonous
to accomplish a job or task. job duties.
» Persist until tasks are completed, even in difficult » Work for long periods of time when necessary
or trying situations. without tiring.
» Work independently with minimal supervision. » Maintain focus and vigilance while working on
a single task for a long period of time.

Selfless Service Orientation

» Work hard and productively without regard to » Demonstrate a willingness to volunteer for collateral
accomplishments being recognized. duties and/or less desirable assignments.
» Exhibit a personal conviction to selfless service. » Demonstrate a mission- or team-first attitude.
» Demonstrate loyalty to the organization and its mission.

Dependability
» Act reliably and responsibly. » Meet deadlines and provide output in a timely manner.
» Follow through on commitments. » Focus on providing a high-quality, useable product.

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Self-Confidence
» Believe in own ability to accomplish goals or tasks. » Display a willingness to act when necessary
» Act with sureness and certainty. despite uncertainty or ambiguity.

» Demonstrate courage to state and defend own » Demonstrate confidence in own analysis and
assessment and opinions. decision-making process, even when one’s opinion
or recommendation is in the minority.
» Assert a point of view when appropriate.

Adapt to Changing Situations

» Adjust to unanticipated events and circumstances. » Produce quality work under pressure (e.g., reactive
» Act effectively in uncertain situations where the environment, working in less than ideal conditions,
dynamics of the situation are not fully known. time constraints).
» Quickly evaluate and adapt strategies as the situation
and environment changes.

Stress Tolerance
» Remain calm and focused in stressful situations. » Focus on the behaviors and actions that are needed
» Work effectively in a high-stress and/or high-risk to accomplish a mission or task without interference
environment. from strong emotions.
» Manage stressful tasks and assignments.
» Be able to rebound from critical feedback.

Integrity and Ethics

» Conform to accepted professional standards of conduct. » Exhibit integrity in conveying views and making/
» Be truthful and refrain from making misleading executing decisions, even in the face of potentially
statements. adverse personal consequences.

» Demonstrate fairness and consistency in dealings » Manage and use confidential, classified and/or
with others. personal information appropriately.

Intellectual Curiosity
» Take initiative to analyze and form own logical conclusions. » Ask questions to develop fully formed thoughts and ideas.
» Anticipate and ask informed and curious questions. » Explore the connections between seemingly
» Learn about topics proactively. disparate ideas.
» Demonstrate curiosity about how things work.

Collaboration
» Seek out ways to collaborate with others within and » Solicit and accept feedback and integrate it into
across teams and seniority levels. own work.
» Take initiative to reach out across agencies or teams. » Maintain professional and collegial working
» Liaise with different departments and understand relationships in challenging situations.
how to leverage their strengths when needed. » Be an effective leader or follower when appropriate.

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Humility
» Demonstrate a willingness to admit uncertainty in » Demonstrate a willingness to ask for help when
order to help identify where more information needs appropriate.
to be gathered. » Demonstrate a willingness to accept direction and
» Admit to and learn from mistakes and quickly adjust constructive criticism from others.
behavior accordingly. » Recognize own biases and work to overcome them.
» Demonstrate a willingness to make mistakes.

Willingness to Learn
» Demonstrate a desire to learn. » Demonstrate initiative in developing skills needed to
» Seek out opportunities for self-development. do the job well.

» Enjoy the learning process. » Exhibit patience when learning new and challenging
analytical techniques.
» Take advantage of learning opportunities.
» Maintain openness to suggestions and criticism.
» Apply learned information and experiences to
new situations and circumstances. » Ask for feedback on projects.

Acclimate to New Cultures

» Take action to learn about and understand the climate, » Willingly adjust behavior or appearance as necessary
orientation, needs, values, etc., of other groups, to comply with or show respect for others’ values
organizations or cultures. and customs.
» Effectively integrate into groups with different values, » Understand the implications of own actions within
customs or cultures. other groups, organizations or cultures and demonstrate
flexibility to maintain positive relationships.

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Intelligence Analyst Career Paths

As an Intelligence Analyst at the FBI, you will specialize in one of three career paths:

Tactical Analyst
» Embedded on investigative squads and units in » Understand emerging threats to enhance domain
the field or at Headquarters to provide support knowledge and exploit intelligence collection
on active cases. opportunities.
» Assess and communicate real-time analytic judgments » Bridge operational squads by identifying intelligence
regarding specific threats and intelligence gaps. collection opportunities and gaps, and helping to
ensure timely and accurate reporting of intelligence.

Collection/Reporting Analyst
» Work to understand, assess and corroborate » Report raw intelligence in a timely manner through
intelligence. various forms of media, documents and general
» Enhance FBI intelligence collection capabilities, information to determine patterns.
disseminate raw intelligence against priority » Identify human and technical source collection
collection requirements and intelligence gaps. opportunities.

Strategic Analyst
» Consolidate comprehensive information into strategic » Perform domain analysis to articulate the existence
analytic products that contextualize intelligence and of a threat in the area of responsibility.
enhance each division’s understanding of threats, » Perform enterprise-wide strategic analyses.
gaps and vulnerabilities.
» Conduct studies to identify threats and trends.

CAREER PATH HEADQUARTERS FIELD*

Embedded IA
Embedded IA
Tactical Fusion Center IA
Validation IA
Tactical Source Identification IA
Chief Reports Officer
Collection Manager Reports Officer
Collection/Reporting HQ Reports Officer Collection Management Coordinator
Source Identification IA Collection IA
Source Identification IA
Strategic IA Domain IA
Strategic
Domain Manager Domain Management Coordinator

* Please note that “field” refers to all 56 Field Offices, Resident Agencies, Embassies, Joint Task Forces and Legal Attaches located all over the world.

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In the Field or at Headquarters

Newly appointed Intelligence Analysts are assigned to FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C., or to one of the
FBI’s 56 Field Offices located across the country. Opportunities may exist for in-grade and promotional transfers.

Field Offices and the Field Intelligence Group (FIG)

Intelligence Analysts in the 56 FBI Field Offices are either embedded in squads or work in Field Intelligence Groups
(FIGs), which are intelligence entities designed to fully integrate the intelligence cycle into field operations and
manage the Intelligence Program in coordination with the Directorate of Intelligence (DI).

Each FIG is composed of Intelligence Analysts, Special Agents, Language Analysts and other FBI specialists.
In addition, many FIGs work hand in hand with officers and analysts from other federal and local intelligence
and law enforcement agencies.

Intelligence Analyst Headquarters Division Assignments

Counterterrorism Division (CTD) Cyber Division (CYBER)
CTD prevents acts of international and domestic ter- CYBER addresses cyberthreats in a coordinated manner,
rorism against the United States. The priorities of the working with law enforcement agencies, intelligence
Division include detecting, disrupting and dismantling community partners and the private sector. This coop-
terrorist cells and support networks in the United States eration allows the FBI to stay ahead of adversaries that
before they act, as well as identifying and preventing threaten the technological infrastructure of the United
acts of terrorism by individuals acting independently. States. CYBER also simultaneously supports FBI priorities
across division lines when aggressive technological
Counterintelligence Division (CD) investigative assistance is required.
CD protects the United States against foreign intelligence
operations and espionage. The Division accomplishes this Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Directorate
by interacting with U.S. law enforcement agencies and WMD is located within the National Security Branch of
Intelligence Community partners in order to neutralize the FBI. The WMD Directorate employs an integrated
the intelligence activities of foreign countries and other strategy of analysis and investigation in order to identify
entities that pose a significant threat to the United States. and disrupt WMD operations and threats, working with
FBI Headquarters, Field Offices, other government agen-
Criminal Investigative Division (CID) cies, industry, academia and strategic foreign partners.
CID coordinates, manages and directs investigative
programs involving federal violations, focusing on Directorate of Intelligence (DI)
financial crime, violent crime, drug-related crime, The mission of DI is to collect, produce and disseminate
organized crime, public corruption and violations actionable intelligence that enables the FBI to identify
of individual civil rights. The CID guides Field Office and counter current and emerging threats.
investigations against criminal enterprises and
individuals both in the United States and internationally.

Reasonable Accommodations
The FBI provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you believe you have
a disability that will require special arrangements during the hiring process, you may request a reasonable
accommodation at any time by emailing FBI_IASP@fbi.gov.

Every test in the hiring process is evaluated differently. Therefore, you must submit a reasonable accommodation
request for each test, if needed. Reasonable accommodations are granted on a case-by-case basis. Your request
will receive an individualized assessment; requests will be processed in the order they were received.

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FBI Employment Requirements

Employment Disqualifiers
The mission of the FBI is vital to the safety and security of our nation and its citizens. Often, our work is very sensitive
in nature. Therefore, all FBI positions require at least a Top Secret Clearance. How do you obtain such a clearance?
Once you have received and accepted a conditional offer of employment, the FBI will initiate an intensive background
investigation that you must pass before you can join the Bureau.

There are also certain employment requirements that all candidates must meet in order to be eligible for
consideration for employment with the FBI. Before applying for any FBI position, please make sure that the
FBI Employment Disqualifiers do not apply to you.

The FBI Employment Disqualifiers are:

» Non U.S. citizenship. » Failure of a urinalysis drug test.

» Conviction of a felony. » Failure to register with the Selective Service System
» Violation of the FBI Employment Drug Policy. (male applicants only — exceptions apply,
visit FBIJobs.gov for more details).
» Default on a student loan insured by the
U.S. government.

IMPORTANT
Please note that if you are disqualified by any of the above criteria,
you are not eligible for employment with the FBI. All of these disqualifiers
are extensively researched during the FBI Background Investigation Process.
Please make sure you can meet FBI employment requirements and pass all
disqualifiers before you apply for an FBI position.

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Employment Drug Policy

The FBI is firmly committed to a drug-free society and workplace. Applicants for employment with the FBI who are
currently using illegal drugs, misusing or abusing legal drugs or other substances at the time of the application process
will be found unsuitable for employment.

While the FBI does not condone any prior unlawful drug use by applicants, the FBI realizes some otherwise-qualified
applicants may have used illegal drugs at some point in their past. For a complete listing of disqualifying criteria,
Please see: FBIJobs.gov/working-at-FBI/eligibility.

A candidate will be found unsuitable for employment and automatically disqualified if he or she deliberately
misrepresents his or her drug history in connection with his or her application for employment.

Background Investigation Process

After you receive a conditional FBI offer of employment, the next step is to begin the background investigation process.
All candidates must receive an FBI Top Secret Clearance before beginning employment with the FBI.

Once you have been instructed to do so by the local Field Office, you will initiate the FBI background investigation process.

As soon as the FBI receives a completed set of background investigation forms (your local Field Office point of
contact [POC] will provide you with an address), the FBI will commence with your background investigation.

The investigation includes:

» A polygraph examination. » Extensive interviews with former and current
» Urinalysis colleagues, neighbors, friends, professors, etc.

» Credit and records checks.

You will be contacted by the FBI Office that is processing your background investigation to schedule your interview,
urinalysis and polygraph examination.

The polygraph will check the truthfulness of all of your responses on the FBI Background Investigation Forms. In the
next phase of the process, the FBI will perform extensive records checks (e.g., credit checks, police records checks,
etc.) and FBI investigators will interview current and former associates.

IMPORTANT
Please note that because of the thoroughness of the background
investigation process, it can take several months or more to receive
your FBI Top Secret Clearance.

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Preparing for the Assessments
General Information

Preparing for the Assessments

General Information

Testing Guidelines
When and Where
Phases I and II are administered at various locations throughout the United States. The FBI has partnered with
PSI Services (PSI) to administer the Intelligence Analyst assessments at local testing sites for the convenience
of applicants. All testing is conducted stateside.

Scheduling
Applicants will receive an invitation from PSI, on behalf of the FBI, to schedule themselves for Phases I and II.
Applicants will have up to 10 days from the date of invitation to schedule and complete each phase.

What to Bring
Candidates must bring a driver’s license to the assessment. If your driver’s license does not have a photo, you must
provide an additional form of photo identification. Candidates are not permitted to participate in the testing process
without proper photo identification.

What NOT to Bring

» Reference materials (dictionaries, textbooks, etc.). » Papers (resumes, notification letters, notes,
» Pens and/or pencils. blank paper, etc.).

» Reading materials (books, magazines, newspapers, etc.). » Cellular phones (alarms on watches must be turned off).

» Work-related materials. » Other electronic devices (calculators, tape recorders,

cameras, radios, etc.).
» Briefcases, backpacks and purses.
» Firearms (if you are currently in a law enforcement
position, you may not bring your firearm into
FBI space or the testing facility).

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Preparing for the Assessments

What to Wear
» Phase I — Wear casual, » Phase II — Wear casual, » Phase III — Dress in a professional
comfortable clothing that is comfortable clothing that is manner. Business attire is
suitable for an office environment. suitable for an office environment. recommended.

How Long the Phases Take to Complete

» Phase I — » Phase II — » Phase III —
Approximately 110 minutes. Approximately 90 minutes. Approximately 60 minutes.

Basic Testing Rules

Tardiness — Please arrive on time. If you are late, you will not be permitted to participate in testing.

Eating/Drinking — Eating and drinking is not allowed during testing.

Smoking — Smoking and chewing tobacco are not permitted during testing.

Restroom Use — You may not use the restroom during administration of the tests unless it’s an emergency.

Cellphone Use — You are not permitted to use a cellphone during the testing process.

Time Limits* — Time limits are strictly enforced. When time has elapsed, you must immediately stop what you
are doing and await further instructions. Failure to comply will result in you being disqualified from the process.
* Special accommodations are available for those with a disability or impairment that will require a time extension.

Reasonable Accommodations — TThe FBI provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with
disabilities. If you believe you have a disability that will require special arrangements during the hiring process, you
may request a reasonable accommodation at any time by sending an email to FBI_IASP@fbi.gov. Each test in the
hiring process is evaluated differently. Therefore, you must submit a reasonable accommodation request for each
test, if needed. The decision to grant reasonable accommodations will be made on a case-by-case basis.

Talking — There will be no talking to other applicants once testing has begun.

Cheating — Any attempt to see another applicant’s answers; obtain assistance verbally or in writing; or record,
document or otherwise retain/discuss the questions/answers to the assessments is considered cheating.
Those caught cheating are discontinued from further consideration for the Intelligence Analyst position.

Discussing the Tests — Candidates are not permitted to discuss any part of the tests or interview questions with
anyone during or after the testing process. We discourage discussing your prospective FBI employment on any
social media or social networking sites. You should remain discreet about your application, including all interview
and testing information, during the entire FBI hiring process. This ensures other potential applicants are not given
an unfair advantage or disadvantage in the selection process. Applicants are required to sign a nondisclosure form
prior to the assessment. If an applicant is found to have violated this agreement, he or she will be disqualified.

Leaving the Premises — Candidates are not permitted to leave the testing premises during testing.

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Preparing for the Assessments

Test-Taking Tips
Before the Test Session
» Plan ahead so you are well-rested before the test session. » Reduce test anxiety and tension by breathing
» Make sure you know the exact location and time of deeply and stretching before the test.
the test session, allow plenty of time to get to the » Start the test session with a positive attitude,
test site, use the restroom and relax. determination to do your best and focus on what
» Wear something comfortable; test sites may be slightly you do know, not on what you do not know.
warm or cool so dress for a range of temperatures.

During the Test Session

» Read all of the test instructions carefully and follow •  Pay attention to words like NOT and EXCEPT.
them exactly. •  Do not over-interpret questions or try to find
» Be sure you understand the test instructions before hidden meanings; the questions are not
you start; if you need to ask questions, do so. designed to be tricky.
» Read each question and all of the response options » If you have time remaining at the end of a test,
completely before choosing your answer. proofread your answers.
•  Be careful not to add or skip any words in the » Try to stay relaxed; if you have trouble concentrating
question or response choices. or become tense, pause and take a few deep breaths.

Tips for the Writing Assessment

» Read the Written Exercise instructions carefully. » You should ask the administrator any questions you
Make sure you understand what the exercise requires. have regarding the instructions for the test.
Do not go beyond the material provided. That is, do » Please be detailed and thorough in the written report
not make up facts. required in this exercise.
» You may write on the printed materials.

Tips for the Interview

» Be yourself. » Remember that the interview panel has no applicant
» The evaluators will be taking notes during the information about you. They have not seen your
interview to assist them in documenting the results. application. They only know your name.
Do not let this distract you. » Do not make assumptions about what the
» Provide detailed information when answering the evaluators are seeking. The interview instructions
interview questions. Do not be modest in your are straightforward. There are no “trick” questions.
responses. To provide the best examples of your skills » Study your resume and be able to speak about how
and abilities, draw from all of your life’s experiences, your experiences align with the critical skills and
not just the most recent ones. Experiences can be abilities required of Intelligence Analysts.
from work or school.

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
General
Phase
Information
I: Testing

Phase
GeneralI: Information
Testing

Overview
The Phase I test is a computerized exam that takes approximately 110 minutes to complete.

Candidates will take four different tests that will measure the kind of thinking and reasoning skills required to perform
the Intelligence Analyst job, as well as background experiences that indicate whether or not the Intelligence Analyst
work environment would be a good fit. The four tests are:

TEST NAME # OF QUESTIONS

Working Style and Preferences Part I 74

Problem Solving Part I 24

Problem Solving Part II 12

Working Style and Preferences Part II 26

All questions use a multiple-choice response format. For Problem Solving Part I, there is only one correct answer
per question. For the Working Style and Preferences Part I and Problem Solving Part II, there are no single “correct”
answers, but some answers are worth more points than others. For the Working Style and Preferences Part II,
there are no “correct” answers. Your responses will show whether the personality traits you possess are aligned
with those that are important to the Intelligence Analyst role.

The tests are administered under timed conditions. If you finish a test before the allotted time limit, you may
spend the remaining time proofreading your answers or you may choose to begin the next test. Some tests
do not allow you to return to previous answers, so you will have to move on to the next test once the test
you are working on is complete.

You must pass Phase I to be considered for Phase II. Individuals who fail Phase I may not take it again until the
standard retest period of 12 months has elapsed.

23
FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Phase I: Testing

Working Style and Preferences Part I

Working Style and Preferences Part I measures your ability to respond to situations that may be encountered in the
Intelligence Analyst work role. It also measures your behavioral preferences. Thus, the test will ask you to respond
to two types of questions. The two types of questions will be presented together in a random order.

The first type of question will ask you to provide information about your preferred or typical ways of behaving
at work. When you answer, you should think of work, school, or similar situations rather than domestic or social
situations. For these questions, you will be presented with several statements. Your task will be to rate how well
each statement represents your own behavior.

The second type of question will ask about your attitudes and responses related to potential interactions you
might have in an Intelligence Analyst job role. For each question, you will choose the one answer that best describes
how you would most likely respond. While some of the questions or possible answers may not sound exactly like
something you might experience on the job, they are intended to be generally applicable to everyone and do not
require any special training or experience to answer them.

You can prepare by:

» Thinking about how you interact with others in the » Thinking about the way you typically communicate
workplace, in school, or in other work-like activities. with coworkers, professors, supervisors, fellow
Think about the way you worked with others on students or fellow volunteers. Think about the way
group projects or on teams, and how you worked you tried to explain things to others or how you
with supervisors or professors. persuaded them to do something.
» Thinking about how you have typically handled » Reading general study guides on how to respond
assignments, your approach to completing them to situational judgment tests and personality and
and how you handled problems or obstacles. attitude inventories.

IMPORTANT
Some study guides will advise you to answer in ways to “beat the
test” even if it means claiming qualities or experiences that you do
not really have. Clearly, the FBI does not wish to hire candidates who
provide unrealistic or false responses. If, during later portions of the
hiring process, such as a background check, the FBI determines that
you falsified your responses on the Working Style and Preferences
Part I and II, this could be grounds for withdrawing a job offer.

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Phase I: Testing

The following questions measure several personal characteristics and tendencies related to performing effectively
in an Intelligence Analyst job. It contains a number of statements and questions. You must read each statement or
question carefully and decide which of the possible answers is most accurate for you. There are no “correct” or
“incorrect” answers.

If the question does not ask about school experiences, then please think of work experiences when choosing
a response. For example, if a question involves getting into arguments with others, think in terms of getting
into arguments with coworkers. If you do not have any job experience, then you may base your answers on
experiences in school, doing volunteer activities, or from your personal life.

Question Type 1 Samples

1. When the work environment is in flux, I like to slow down and re-evaluate my strategy.
1 = Very untrue of me
2 = Untrue of me
3 = Somewhat untrue of me
4 = Neutral
5 = Somewhat true of me
6 = True of me
7 = Very true of me

2. As projects change, I update my plan to complete my work activities.

1 = Very untrue of me
2 = Untrue of me
3 = Somewhat untrue of me
4 = Neutral
5 = Somewhat true of me
6 = True of me
7 = Very true of me

3. I am at my most productive when I am working on several projects at a time.

1 = Very untrue of me
2 = Untrue of me
3 = Somewhat untrue of me
4 = Neutral
5 = Somewhat true of me
6 = True of me
7 = Very true of me

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Phase I: Testing

Question Type 2 Samples

The following are sample scenarios for the second question type.

1. Y
 ou are running late for an appointment after work. You pack up all of your things and accidently grab classified
information and go home. The next day you realize you have taken the classified information home. How are you
most likely to respond?

A Do nothing but take extra steps to ensure it does not happen again.

B Call a trusted coworker to ask what they would do in this situation.

C Put the information in your car and lock it so that it is safeguarded.

D Contact your supervisor and report the incident to security personnel.

2. Y
 ou are working with people in your organization whose work overlapped with yours but whose goals and work
culture are different or even contradictory to your own. This has caused several conflicts and has made your work
slow and laborious. How are you most likely to respond in order to do your job most effectively?

 stablish a weekly call to settle major conflicts but otherwise work in parallel to avoid spending too much
E
A
time debating.

B Consider their culture and goals as paramount and pursue those first and your original goals as secondary.

 earn about their culture and determine where there is common ground. Use that common ground to create
L
C
mutually beneficial actions.

D Consider your goals and culture as paramount and pursue those first and their goals as secondary.

3. A member of your team confided in you that when he was in college he stole someone’s report and submitted
it in his name. How are you most likely to respond?

A Advise the team member that he should self-report this incident and retake the training class on integrity and ethics.

B Report the team member to your supervisor.

Tell the team member that the past is the past and as long as he understands that it was wrong,
C
he should no longer harbor the guilt.

D Have a discussion with the team member regarding his actions and why they were wrong.

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Phase I: Testing

Problem Solving Part I

In Problem Solving Part I, you will encounter either pattern-based or memory-based questions.

Sample Pattern-Based Questions

For the pattern-based questions, you will be using your problem solving and decision-making skills to answer
questions on various figures. The figures presented will contain shapes, lines, and patterns. You will be asked to
identify one of the following: the correct missing piece, the figure or shape that does not belong, or the next step
in a series of figures.

All of the information you need to answer these questions will be provided in the accompanying figures. After each
question, there are four or five response options. There is one correct answer to each question.

You can prepare by:

» Improving your spatial awareness through practice » For complex patterns, you can simplify the figures
problems and pattern recognition exercises. by focusing on one element at a time.
» Reading general study guides on how to prepare
for abstract reasoning and figural or pattern tests.

Sample 1
Choose the response that completes the sequence:

A B C D

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Phase I: Testing

Sample 2
Choose the response that completes the sequence:

A B C D

Sample 3
Which of the five does not belong? Choose the response that does not follow the rules of the other four:

A B C D E

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Phase I: Testing

Sample Memory-Based Questions

For the memory-based questions, you will be using your working memory skills. Working memory is an important
component of the process of reacting and thinking quickly while processing information, which Intelligence Analysts
are required to do regularly.

You will be presented with an image or a set of sentences and/or numbers. Your working memory will be tested
on the next screen with questions about the previously presented information. Please listen to the questions
carefully and choose the best answer for each question. There are between one and four questions about
each set of information. There is one, and only one, correct answer to each question.

You can prepare by:

» Improving your memory through practice problems » Reading general study guides on how to prepare
and memory recall exercises. for working memory tests.

Sample 1
Investigators found a document showing how many credit card numbers had been stolen from the card readers
at different retail stores.

Randy’s Warehouse had 44 card numbers stolen.

Mean Machines had 3 card numbers stolen.
InXcess had 23 card numbers stolen.
Crafter’s had 0 card numbers stolen.

Which of the following stores did not have any credit card information stolen?

A Amber Cave

B InXcess

C Crafter’s

D Traveler’s

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Phase I: Testing

Sample 2
First, you will hear a word, such as “Donkey.” Next you will be presented with a math problem. The math problem
will be something like: “Is 10 divided by 2 plus 2 equal to 7?” and you should determine whether the given answer
is correct or incorrect. If the answer is correct, respond yes; if the answer is incorrect, respond no.

After the math problem, you will repeat the process several times — that is, hearing a single word followed by a
math problem.

At some point, you will be asked to recall all the words from the series. This means you should indicate the order
in which the words were presented. Any mistake (recalling too many items, recalling too few items, or recalling
items in the wrong order) counts as incorrect.

Below is an example of a question that you might hear in this test.

Banana
Is 4*2 + 7 = 15? Yes No

Awake
Is 10/2 + 2 = 7? Yes No

Bicycle
Is 35/7 - 4 = 3? Yes No

Jaw
Is 5+ 6 + 7 = 17? Yes No

What were the words presented in the previous set, in the proper order?

A Banana, Awake, Bicycle, Jaw

B Awake, Banana, Bicycle, Jaw

C Bicycle, Banana, Jaw

D None of the above

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Phase I: Testing

Sample 3
Select whether the sentences shown make sense AND remember the LAST word in the sentence. After you select a
response, a new sentence will be read aloud. At some point, you will be asked to recall the last word in each sentence.

Below is an example of a question that you might hear in this test.

The agency and its partners gathered a large amount of evidence and used an array of investigative techniques.
Makes Sense Nonsense

In 1982, the first major drug bust after the Bureau was given concurrent jurisdiction with the DEA
over narcotics violations.
Makes Sense Nonsense

By employing the same suite of tools and approaches used by the FBI to address organized crime.
Makes Sense Nonsense

Select the words you remember in the order that you saw them.

A Techniques, violations, crime

B Abilities, violence, criminal

C Capabilities, criminal, violation

D None of the above

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Phase I: Testing

Problem Solving Part I Answer Key

Sample Pattern-Based Answers
1. B Squares on the outside move clockwise in the outer border of the grid. The square in the center containing
a cross moves diagonally.

2. C The top row of dots alternates blue and clear fill, the middle left column dot has stripes that rotate clockwise
45 degrees, and the hourglass is always sideways in the middle row and upright in the bottom row.

3. E An even number of concentric circles indicates the shape is black, an odd number of concentric circles
indicates the shape is white.

Sample Memory-Based Answers

1. C Crafter’s had 0 credit card numbers stolen.

2.
Yes. 4*2 + 7 is 15
Yes. 10/2 + 2 is 7.
No. 35/7 – 4 is not 3.
No. 5 + 6 + 7 is not 17.
A Banana, awake, bicycle, jaw.

3.
Makes Sense
Nonsense
Nonsense
A Techniques, violations, crime.

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Phase I: Testing

Problem Solving Part II

In Problem Solving Part II, you will be using your problem solving and reasoning skills to analyze scenarios and draw logical
conclusions. These skills are important for analyzing information and making decisions in the Intelligence Analyst role.
There are multiple correct answers to each question, but you must decide the most plausible or best answer to the question.
Below are examples of questions that you might see in this test. The answers worth the most points are in bold.
You can prepare by:

» Searching for online tools or reading books that explain » Taking a course to improve your reasoning skills.
how to think about abductive reasoning problems. » Thoroughly reviewing this Candidate Information
» Solving practice questions published in reasoning and Packet before scheduling your test.
logic skills workbooks. Such workbooks are available
in most libraries and bookstores.

Sample Questions
Sample 1
A woman is found out of breath on the ground. She is next to a bicycle, has an emergency medical bracelet on, and has an
inhaler in her pocket. During the investigation, you learn that her inhaler was empty. Choose the most plausible explanation.

A She was involved in an accident.

B Her workout triggered the asthma attack.

C The medication in the inhaler did not work.

D Pollen triggered the asthma attack.

Sample 2
A nurse notices an increase in new patient referrals in her office. The vast majority of the new patients are retired with a fixed
income and are 65 and older with a disability. These patients’ visits occur exclusively at their homes and are more expensive
than office visits. You suspect fraud may be occurring. Choose the question you would ask to further the investigation.

A Do these patients have health insurance?

B Where are the patients’ homes located?

C What is the age of the neighborhood population?

D How many retirement homes are near the office?

Sample 3
You find out that many of the patients had federal insurance for those 65 and older with a disability. With this new
information, what question would you ask next to further the investigation?

A Are all of the home visits covered by insurance?

B What is the general health of these patients?

C How often is the doctor in the medical office?

D How many nurses work in the medical office?

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FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Phase I: Testing

Working Style and Preferences Part II

For Working Style and Preferences Part II, you will be presented with three statements simultaneously and will need to rank
them in terms of which statements are most and least like you. While there is no “correct” answer, your responses will show
whether the personality traits you possess are aligned with those that are important to the Intelligence Analyst work role.

You can prepare by:

» Thinking about how you interact with others in the » Thinking about how you have typically handled
workplace, in school, or in other work-like activities. assignments, your approach to completing them
Think about the way you worked with others on and how you handled problems or obstacles.
group projects or on teams and how you worked » Thinking about the way you typically communicate
with supervisors or professors. with co-workers, professors, supervisors, fellow
students, or fellow volunteers. Think about the way
you tried to explain things to others or how you
persuaded them to do something.

IMPORTANT
Some study guides will advise you to answer in ways to “beat the
test” even if it means claiming qualities or experiences that you do
not really have. Clearly, the FBI does not wish to hire candidates who
provide unrealistic or false responses. If, during later portions of the
hiring process, such as a background check, the FBI determines that
you falsified your responses on the Working Style and Preferences
Part I and II, this could be grounds for withdrawing a job offer.

Sample Questions
An example of this triplet format is shown below:
Most Least
I persuade other people to do things my way.
I find ways to remove obstacles to doing my work, regardless of the risks.
I cooperate with others on my team even if I do not agree with them.

You will then need to select which statement is “Most like you” and which statement is “Least like you.” You can only select
one statement for Most and one for Least.

34
FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Phase II: Writing
GeneralAssessment
Information

Phase
GeneralII:Information
Writing Assessment

Overview
Phase II is a timed writing assessment that simulates the Intelligence Analyst’s role in reviewing intelligence and
preparing intelligence products. A standard script that explains the instructions for the exercise, the allotted time,
etc., will be part of the computer program and read by the applicant. The applicant will be given a set of materials
to read at the start of the assessment. After reading the materials, the applicant will be required to write a passage
regarding what he or she has read.

You must pass Phase II to be considered for Phase III. Passing Phase II does not guarantee that you will be invited
to Phase III.

Tips for the Writing Assessment

» Read the Writing Assessment instructions carefully. » You should ask the administrator any questions
Make sure you understand what the exercise requires. you have regarding the instructions for the test.
Do not go beyond the material provided; that is, » Please be detailed and thorough in the written report
do not make up facts. required in this exercise. You will have 90 minutes to
» You may write on the printed materials. complete this test.

35
FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Phase III: Structured
General Information
Interview

Phase
GeneralIII:Information
Structured Interview

Overview
Phase III is a one-hour structured panel interview that assesses oral communication, interpersonal skills, organizing
and planning and analytical thinking. Each panel will consist of three senior-level Intelligence Analysts and all
interviews will be recorded. Each panel will read a standardized script to the applicant before the interview begins
and will score each interview when completed.

You must pass Phase III to receive a Conditional Job Offer (CJO). Passing Phase III does not guarantee that you
will receive a CJO.

Tips for the Structured Interview

» Be yourself. » Remember that the interview panel has no applicant
» The evaluators will be taking notes during the information about you. They have not seen your
interview to assist them in documenting the results. application. They only know your name.
Do not let this distract you. » Do not make assumptions about what the
» Provide detailed information when answering the inter- evaluators are seeking. The interview instructions
view questions. Do not be modest in your responses. are straightforward. There are no “trick” questions.
To provide the best examples of your skills and abilities, » Study your resume and be able to speak about how
draw from all of your life’s experiences, not just the most your experiences match with the critical skills and
recent ones. Experiences can be from work or school. abilities required of Intelligence Analysts.

Travel Arrangements for Phase III

Applicant Coordinators are responsible for:
» Making all travel and lodging arrangements for an ap- » Completing any travel budget preauthorization requests
plicant processing within their area of region (AOR) to or forms, as required by the Finance Division (FD), on
attend Phase III testing. It is the responsibility of the Ap- behalf of the applicant prior to travel and must assist in
plicant Coordinators to secure the most cost-effective completing any necessary forms or vouchers once travel
and efficient mode of transportation for the applicant. is completed. Expenses will be reimbursed using the stan-
dard government rates that are listed on the GSA website.

36
FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Phase III: Structured Interview

Failure to Report for Phase III

Applicants faced with emergency situations that prevent them from attending scheduled Phase III testing must
contact their POC as soon as possible. Applicants who fail to report for scheduled Phase III testing without providing
acceptable explanations will not be offered other opportunities to test and will be permanently deactivated from
the IASP. New Agent/Analyst Testing and Selection Unit (NAATSU) Management will review all cancellations and
determine if an acceptable explanation has been provided.

37
FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
General Information
Retesting

Retesting
General Information

Phase I Retesting
Applicants for the Intelligence Analyst position who fail Phase I testing may be eligible for one retest at least
one year after their initial test date. Applicants interested in retesting for Phase I should reapply online for
the Intelligence Analyst position after the one-year waiting period has concluded.

Phase II Retesting
Applicants for the Intelligence Analyst position who fail Phase II testing may be eligible for one retest at least
one year after their initial test date. Applicants interested in retesting for Phase II should reapply online for
the Intelligence Analyst position after the one-year waiting period has concluded.

Phase III Retesting

Applicants for the Intelligence Analyst position who fail Phase III testing may be eligible for one retest at least
one year after their initial test date. Applicants interested in retesting for Phase III should reapply online for
the Intelligence Analyst position after the one-year waiting period has concluded.

IMPORTANT
Applicants who fail any part of the Intelligence Analyst
Selection Process must wait a minimum of 12 months
before they are eligible to retest.

38
FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Frequently
General
Asked
Information
Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

General Information
1. What will disqualify me from becoming an Intelligence Analyst?
The Intelligence Analyst position requires a Top Secret SCI Clearance from the FBI. The following factors will
automatically disqualify you from receiving this clearance:
» Non U.S. citizenship. » Default on a student loan insured by the
» Conviction of a felony. U.S. government.

» Violation of the FBI Employment Drug Policy. » Failure of a urinalysis drug test.
» Failure to register with the Selective Service System
(male applicants only; exceptions apply.)
Visit FBIJobs.gov for more details.

2. Can I apply for a specific Division (Counterterrorism, Cyber, etc.) or a specific career path (Strategic,
Collection/Reporting and Tactical)?
As a threat-based, intelligence driven organization, the FBI hires Intelligence Analysts into divisions and career paths
based on Bureau needs. There is no guarantee that you will be placed in your desired role or position. Please review
vacancy announcements on FBIJobs.gov for specific opportunities.

3. What can I expect in the interview?

Applicants can expect a number of competency questions. The FBI worked with industry human resources experts to devel-
op a competency-based approach to drive the human resources continuum that includes the selection and hiring process.
The panel uses behavioral interview questions and screening tools to assess your competency in critical areas. Candidates
who indicated specialized experience (e.g., foreign language proficiency) may be scheduled for additional testing in their
field of expertise. During the interview, applicants will be asked a number of standard screening and competency questions.

4. When do I receive an offer?

Candidates who pass the IASP will be notified by email and will receive a conditional job offer for employment as an
Intelligence Analyst. The conditional job offer will include the position title, GS pay grade and salary. Conditional job
offers are contingent upon signing the FBI mobility agreement, a favorable adjudication in the background investigation
process, budgetary requirements and meeting the critical skills needed by the FBI.

5. Are there opportunities to travel as an Intelligence Analyst?

Depending on the Division and assignment, there are numerous opportunities for travel, both domestically and
internationally. Opportunities include attending Intelligence Community conferences, meeting with U.S. and
foreign intelligence and law enforcement agencies and temporary engagements at other Field Offices. 39
FBI Intelligence Analyst Selection Process Candidate Information
Frequently Asked Questions

6. How are grade levels determined?

The FBI follows specific internal and Office of Personnel Management (OPM) guidelines when determining an
applicant’s grade level. Your background and experience determines the grade level(s) for which you are qualified.
Intelligence Analysts without work experience generally enter the FBI at the GS-7 level with an undergraduate degree,
and at the GS-9 level with a graduate degree. The final decision on your grade level is based on the needs of the FBI
and your specific qualifications for the Intelligence Analyst position. Once you have accepted a conditional job offer,
the grade level offered is the one at which you will be hired. You cannot renegotiate your grade level after being hired.

7. Are there opportunities for advancement into management and executive positions as an Intelligence Analyst?
Throughout their career with the FBI, Intelligence Analysts can qualify for additional training and for promotion to a
variety of managerial and executive positions. Promotions to supervisory, management and executive positions are
available in grades GS-14, GS-15 and SL scale, as well as in the FBI Senior Executive Service (SES). For more information
on the government pay scale, please visit the Office of Personnel Management’s Salaries and Wages page.

8. What happens if I do not pass the Basic Field Training Course (BFTC)?
As a condition of employment as an Intelligence Analyst, candidates must pass the BFTC in order to be further
considered for the Intelligence Analyst position. Failure to successfully pass the BFTC may result in dismissal.

9. Are there dress code or grooming restrictions at the BFTC?

The FBI relies upon the trust and confidence of the American public to effectively perform its mission. Your personal
appearance as an FBI Intelligence Analyst must inspire that trust and confidence. Specific dress and grooming
standards will vary depending on the area of the country where you work and your specific assignments. During your
career, you may encounter various restrictions on your manner of dress, personal grooming and personal adornment
based upon the business needs of the FBI.
During new analyst training, you should expect strict dress and grooming standards. These standards are intended
to foster safety, esprit de corps, uniformity, accountability, a sense of discipline and to eliminate any unnecessary
distractions from the training environment. Some restrictions/requirements are as follows:

» Trainees must be clean-shaven throughout training. » If a tattoo is determined to be disruptive to the learning
» Facial piercings are not permitted. (The only exception environment, the trainee will be required to cover the
is for female trainees who are authorized to wear tattoos by acquiring similarly colored long sleeves or
earrings, but jewelry and piercings must be small, a long-sleeved shirt to wear under his or her polo.
simple in design and not present a safety hazard.) » Hair must be of reasonable length without faddish or
exaggerated style or color.
» Men’s hair must not be longer than the bottom of the col-
lar, without adornments such as buns, ponytails or braids.

If you need an exception from these standards due to your religion or disability, you may request an accommodation
prior to beginning the BFTC.

10. Will I be paid while I am at BFTC training?

Yes, you will be considered an FBI employee while in training and be paid the base salary plus the locality
(Cost of Living Adjustment) of your training location (Washington D.C.).

11. Will the FBI consider matching my salary?

No, the FBI will not be matching salaries unless you are a current or former federal employee; you will need
to provide your most recent SF-50.
40