If you have determined that you meet the basic eligibility requirements and have completed your bachelor’s degree, the next step is to search for job openings. Governmental job openings are always posted on USAJobs.gov. Once you find an opening for a special agent, you can submit your resume and proof of your qualifications in accordance with the agency’s instructions.
The next step is to take the Special Agent Entrance Exam (SAEE). You must pass this exam before being allowed to continue the hiring process. This recruitment exam uses a multiple choice format and includes five timed sections that you will complete in approximately three hours.
Here is a look at the sections of the SAEE:
- Logic-based reasoning: You will read multiple passages and answer related questions. This section tests your ability to understand and process information and draw logical conclusions based on that information. Remember to read each passage extremely carefully.
- Experience inventory, Part I: You will read a set of statements that describe various situations and then write the best possible responses or outcomes to those situations. You may not have encountered these situations before. Remember to work quickly because you have only 20 minutes to complete this section.
- Language usage: You will read two documents, each riddled with grammatical and language usage mistakes. Your task is to correct these mistakes. This section tests your ability to communicate in a professional manner.
- Experience inventory, Part II: This is similar to Part I, except that the statements describe situations that you have most likely encountered before. Your task is to choose the response that most closely explains your involvement in the various situations.
- Detail observation: You will have 2.5 minutes to examine a photo and its caption. Then, the photo will be removed and you will answer questions about your observations. In total, you will complete three photo scenarios.
This last section can be challenging, but some tips can help you. As you study each photo, focus on the people, objects, and background. Memorize details about the people’s appearances and the behaviors in which they are engaged as well as the appearance and locations of all objects. Lastly, memorize the setting of the photo.
If you successfully pass the SAEE, your next step in the recruitment process is to pass the Applicant Physical Abilities Test (APAT). This physical fitness exam tests your ability to perform push-ups, sit-ups, a short-distance agility run and a 1.5-mile run. You should begin preparing for this test as early as possible — for example, by participating in sports and remaining physically active while you are still an undergraduate.
After passing the APAT, you may be invited to an interview. Then, the hiring panel will review all of your application information and your qualifications. The hiring panel may decide to extend a conditional job offer to you.
Receiving a conditional job offer means that you have been invited to undertake Phase 2 of the hiring process. This is not a guarantee of employment as a special agent. The question of whether or not you will ultimately become a special agent is dependent on your ability to pass Phase 2 and successfully complete your training.