Salary, Job Description, How To Become One, and Quiz
Foreign Service Officers
Foreign Service Officers work out of consular offices in foreign countries, assisting Americans traveling abroad and working to protect US interests. Job duties may include reviewing visa applications, working with foreign governments, and reporting potential threats back to superiors in Washington, DC.
Table of contents
Foreign Service Officers are diplomats that get to travel the world and learn about other cultures. However, this job also comes with serious responsibilities.
Foreign Service Officers help promote peace and protect American interests in foreign lands. They are the ones that ensure that the foreign policy of the United States is strictly upheld.
As a Foreign Service Officer, you may need to meet with local governments in other countries and provide resources for US citizens that are traveling abroad. Here is a closer look.
What they do
Foreign Service Officers work out of consular offices in foreign countries, assisting Americans traveling abroad and working to protect US interests. Job duties may include reviewing visa applications, working with foreign governments, and reporting potential threats back to superiors in Washington, DC.
Evaluate Visa Applications for Foreign Travelers
Foreign Service Officers choose a career path after joining the US Department of State (DoS). Many choose to work as Consular Officers.
Consular Officers are responsible for evaluating visa applications from foreign nationals who want to travel to the United States. The Officer may review the applicant’s intended reason for travel and perform a background check to look for any red flags.
Help Evacuate Americans Stuck in Foreign Countries
Foreign Service Officers that choose the Consular Officer path may also help evacuate the needs of Americans during dire situations. For example, during a military coup or an environmental disaster, normal methods of travel may not be available to Americans traveling abroad.
Foreign Service Officers assist with arranging travel or providing a safe place to stay until American citizens can be evacuated.
Build Positive Economic Relations with Foreign Governments
Foreign Service Officers that choose the Economic Officer path are responsible for building and maintaining relations with foreign dignitaries, business leaders, and international organizations.
Foreign Service Economic Officers coordinate with international organizations to help resolve market challenges and promote fair trade practices. They also work with leaders in other countries to solve problems related to health, the environment, and science.
Working with foreign governments may also involve negotiating agreements and arranging policies that promote safer travel and transportation between the United States and foreign countries.
Help Advance US Political Interests in Foreign Lands
Foreign Service Political Officers and Foreign Service Public Diplomacy Officers help promote awareness of US interests in foreign lands. This may involve explaining American values and policies to foreigners and developing exchange programs to build stronger relations.
Foreign Service Political Officers tend to focus on political policies and high-level negotiations. Foreign Service Public Diplomacy Officers are more focused on public awareness and the exchange of cultural information.
Ensure That Arrested Americans Receive Legal Counsel
Foreign Service Officers visit arrested Americans overseas to ensure that they receive access to legal counsel. They may also help arrange communications between an arrested US citizen and their family back home.
What is the job like
Pros
You Get to Serve the Country
You get to do your part to serve the US government and help protect its interests, which is a source of pride for many Foreign Service Officers.
You Can Help Fellow Citizens
As a Foreign Service Officer, you may occasionally help evacuate Americans or resolve international issues.
You Get to Travel the World
Foreign Service Officers are stationed at consular offices around the world, giving you the chance to visit foreign countries.
You Do Not Need a Specific Degree
A Bachelor’s degree can increase your career prospects, but you do not need a specific major for this job.
Cons
Dangerous Situations
You may occasionally find yourself in dangerous situations, such as social turmoil.
Stressful Work
Some of the work that you complete can be stressful, such as reviewing visa applications to help detect potential threats.
Where they work
Foreign Service Officers work for the United States Department of State (DoS). They typically work out of consular offices in foreign countries. The DoS has over 270 embassies and consulates worldwide. However, Foreign Service Officers that are involved in administration may be stationed in Washington, DC.
How to become one
Step 1: Study History and Politics in High School
Aspiring Foreign Service Officers should study history and politics in high school, as this job requires knowledge of American and world affairs.
Step 2: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Foreign Service Officers do not need a college degree, but it can increase your career prospects. Common majors include political science and economics.
Step 3: Choose a Career Path
Before applying for a job as a Foreign Service Officer, you need to choose your career path. The five paths include Consular, Political, Economic, Management, and Public Diplomacy.
Step 4: Pass the FSOT
Applicants need to register for the Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT). The test includes a multiple-choice exam, a written essay, and an oral assessment.
Step 5: Pass the Medical and Security Clearance
After passing the FSOT, applicants need to pass the medical and security requirements. Applicants that pass these requirements undergo a final review and are entered into a waiting list for available job opportunities for their chosen career track.
Should you become one
Best personality type for this career
You can read more about these career personality types here.
Foreign Service Officers must be composed under pressure, as they may need to deal with stressful situations, such as political revolts. FSOs also need to be dependable and trustworthy, as they are representing the interests of the US government.
Working as an FSO also requires good interpersonal skills, as they frequently work closely with a wide range of people from varying walks of life and cultures.
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