How to Become an FBI Agent

What is the FBI and What is an FBI Agent? – The Federal Bureau of Investigation is the primary federal investigative law enforcement agency, and widely regarded as the most effective agency of its kind in the world. It handles both domestic federal law enforcement and international counter-intelligence investigations, as well as supporting other federal, state, and local agencies. FBI Special Agents are the law enforcement officers with advanced college degrees who perform the expert intelligence and scientific investigative services the FBI is known for.

The Bureau runs on an annual budget of more than $8.1 billion, and has some 40,000 employees (including more than 14,000 Special Agents and 22,000 support professionals) working out of 56 field offices and 400 satellite locations in major cities throughout the country and another 60 international offices in U.S. embassies around the globe.

The highly skilled and capable professionals of the Bureau are tasked with protecting the citizens of the United States and its territories from threats that include everything from cyber attacks and violent criminals, to international and domestic terrorists. They defend the nation’s physical and electronic infrastructure and uphold its democracy, all while providing critical leadership and investigative assistance to agencies and partners at all levels.

The FBI serves as both a national security agency and a law enforcement agency, often focusing on issues that threaten the foundation of American society or those that are too dangerous or complex for local and state authorities to handle.

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FBI jobs are varied and extensive, and career paths are designed to capitalize on an individual’s unique talents, skills and education. There are two, primary career paths for those seeking jobs with the Bureau: FBI Special Agents and Professional Staff. Within these two career paths are a number of specialized positions that require very specific education, training, and experience qualifications to be met.

All FBI Agents must remain committed to national security and to upholding the integrity of this esteemed institution. In particular, all candidates for employment with the Bureau should ensure they meet the FBI’s core values.

College students and recent graduates may explore job opportunities with the FBI through the University Hire Program. The FBI offers both an Honors Internship Program (paid) and a Volunteer Internship Program (non-paid). The FBI also hosts a number of recruiting events across the country throughout the year for college students interested in a career with the FBI.

Further, the FBI also offers the prestigious Presidential Management Fellows Program, which is a two-year training and development program designed specifically for professionals from a wide variety of academic disciplines who want to seek careers with the FBI.

Individuals interested in learning how to become FBI Special Agents, Contract Linguists, and professional staff may apply directly online through the FBI website. Also, depending on the current needs of the FBI, individuals may view Featured Opportunities on the FBI website for the latest FBI job opportunities.