fsot essay prompts

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You receive a booklet when you begin the test; you handwrite the essay in that booklet. It is important to present a clear point of view and provide enough arguments to support your viewpoint. Grading takes into account your ability to analyze the topic, support your arguments, structure sentences, and correctly use grammar and syntax. Spelling and punctuation are important, but to a lesser degree than the other criteria.

Following are several sample topics on which you can practice organizing your thoughts. Make a comprehensive outline for each topic, indicating your viewpoints and make a list of supporting arguments. An in-depth outline can help you visualize the entire essay, which you can also write, if you want the practice. If some of the sample topics are not subjects you know about, consider doing some research into these topics in order to develop a broader viewpoint.

Take no more than 50 minutes to complete each essay.

Foreign Service Officer Exam Essay 1

In today's political environment, we have seen the emergence of popular entertainers — singers, musicians, movie stars, and so on — taking center stage to promote and raise money for the candidates of their choice. Some people feel that these entertainers should stick to their own business, while others believe that they have a right, and perhaps even an obligation, to speak their minds. In your view, what do you think the role of entertainers should be in politics? Do they exert undue influence because of their popularity and easy access to the media? Carefully explain the rationale for your position.

Foreign Service Officer Exam Essay 2

Most exams today require students to write an essay, much like this one. Because of the sheer number of essays to be graded, some universities are experimenting with a computerized grading system. Students feel that a machine cannot comprehend a student's argument. On the other hand, the argument goes, a computer can determine whether the student addressed a specific question and can judge the essay's structure. In your view, how can this situation be resolved? Carefully explain the rationale for your position.

Foreign Service Officer Exam Essay 3

There are numerous viewpoints on the subject of cloning. One side feels that the long-term benefits of cloning — primarily a search for medical cures — is worth the effort, but with some restrictions. Others argue that there is a strong potential for abuse in this era of corporate corruption, dishonesty, and misunderstanding. In your view, aside from religious and moral considerations, who should best make the determination whether cloning is legalized: doctors, politicians, or religious leaders. Carefully explain the rationale for your position.

Foreign Service Officer Exam Essay 4

There are two words that politicians take care to avoid: foreign aid. Instead, decision makers often sidestep the issue. Many believe that it is the United States' obligation as the wealthiest nation in the world to help those who are poorer. Others feel that charity begins at home and question whether the people of those countries that receive aid actually benefit directly. Furthermore, they question whether there are any benefits for the United States. In your view, is foreign aid helpful? To whom? Carefully explain the rationale for your position.

Which inequality describes the graph below?

10 Essential FSOT Practice Questions to Study

Ever wonder how you’d fare in the challenging world of diplomacy? Preparing for the Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) is no small feat, and your success hinges on practice.

This article is designed to walk you through the most effective fsot practice questions and strategies to ensure your preparedness isn’t left to chance. With our guidance, deciphering the nuances of the FSOT will seem far less daunting.

1. Understanding FSOT Structure and Sections

2. examining fsot eligibility requirements, 3. demystifying the registration process, 4. essential topics in u.s. government and economics, 5. navigating world history and geography questions, 6. strategies for successful essay writing, 7. tackling job knowledge questions, 8. effective study and preparation techniques, 9. mock tests: your secret weapon, 10. decoding the scoring system.

Embarking on your journey to master the Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) begins with a foundational understanding of what to expect on test day. Consider this your roadmap to navigating the multilayered terrain of the FSOT, which is designed not only to assess your knowledge but also to measure your potential for the critical and analytical rigors of a Foreign Service career.

The FSOT is structured into four distinct sections:

• Job Knowledge: This section evaluates your grasp on a range of subjects pivotal to international relations and Foreign Service work. Your preparation for job knowledge areas is key, with fsot practice questions helping to benchmark your readiness.
• English Expression: Superior communication skills are indispensable for a Foreign Service Officer. Hence, your proficiency in English grammar, composition, and reading comprehension is put to the test here.
• Situational Judgment: Prepare to be challenged on your decision-making and interpersonal skills through hypothetical scenarios that gauge how you would handle complex situations.
• Written Essay: Exhibiting your persuasive writing talents, you get to argue your viewpoint on a significant issue, demonstrating your ability to construct a coherent and compelling narrative under time constraints.

The insights from the comprehensive guide on how to approach the FSOT and an overview of the FSOT’s structure can prove indispensable as you tailor your study regimen to conquer each section with finesse.

Before you dive headfirst into fsot practice questions, ensure you meet the criteria to sit for the FSOT. The eligibility echelons are clear:

• You must be a U.S. citizen —a crucial requirement given the diplomatic responsibilities that come with the role.
• Aspiring diplomats need to be 21 years of age but not older than 59 at the time of application.
• Lastly, be available for worldwide assignment —wherever you’re needed, you’ll serve.

Understanding the details of these requirements is paramount, and resources such as the official FSOT FAQs provide clarity on nuances that may impact your application.

Securing your spot for the FSOT involves a straightforward registration process. Knowing when and how to register is vital to ensure you’re not side-tracked on your road to the Foreign Service:

• Mark Your Calendar: Registration typically opens about five weeks in advance of the testing window. Always verify current dates as they can shift year-to-year.
• Complete Your Application: You’ll need to provide personal information and possibly answer questions about your education and work experience.
• Schedule Your Test: Once registered, choose a convenient location and time that fits best with your preparation timeline.

Utilize resources provided by U.S. Embassies to familiarize yourself with the registration nuances and employ fsot practice questions to stay sharp as your examination date approaches.

When polishing your prowess in U.S. government and economics, focusing on key topics can sharpen your edge:

• Constitutional Foundations: Understand the building blocks of the American political system, including checks and balances, federalism, and the roles of different branches of government.
• Policy Processes: Grasp how policies are crafted and executed from thought to law.
• Economic Indicators: Familiarize yourself with GDP, unemployment rates, and fiscal policies, which are staples among fsot practice questions.

The DOSCareers mobile app can serve as a resourceful companion, offering a fountain of retired FSOT questions to test your knowledge in these areas.

Your understanding of world history and geography is also put under the microscope. This segment is not merely a test of memorized facts but an evaluation of your ability to connect historical dots and comprehend geographic contexts. Key focus areas include:

• Historical movements that shaped societies, like the Renaissance or Industrial Revolution .
• The roles and effects of pivotal events such as World War I and II .
• Technological advancements across ages that have global influence, from the invention of the wheel to the internet .

ProProfs and other online platforms offer practice questions that mirror the type of world history and geography queries you’ll face, while sources like Path to Foreign Service suggest the horizon of topics that the FSOT might cover, enabling you to gear your studies towards a holistic understanding of our world’s rich tapestry.

Writing a compelling essay under the pressure of the FSOT is an art form in itself. This is where your capacity to articulate your thoughts with precision and clarity is truly put to the test. Follow these strategies to ensure you’re well-prepared to make your argument stand out:

• Develop Your Thesis: Have a clear and direct thesis statement that serves as the backbone of your essay.
• Create an Outline: Organize your thoughts into an outline format. This helps in maintaining structure and ensuring all points support your thesis.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Regularly writing timed essays can boost your confidence and hone your writing skills, which is why engaging with fsot practice questions that include essay prompts is crucial.

The FSOT Essay Simulator can be an exceptionally practical tool for crafting and refining essays that reflect the level of sophistication expected by the FSOT graders.

With a vast array of subjects to cover, the job knowledge segment of the FSOT can be intimidating. However, with a strategic approach, you can navigate through the thicket of fsot practice questions that span the spectrum of international affairs, history, culture, management, computers, economics, and more. Here are some targeted tips:

• Categorical Learning: Group your study material into categories to make retention more feasible.
• Adaptable Knowledge: Focus on understanding concepts, not just on memorizing facts, to apply your knowledge to various question formats.
• Simulation: Use practice exams and apps to simulate real test conditions and test your knowledge.

For a comprehensive array of topics, take advantage of the FSOT Sample Job Knowledge Test to self-evaluate your proficiency across different domains.

Your FSOT results can hinge heavily on how effectively you prepare. Integrating a routine and methodology to your study can transform a daunting syllabus into an achievable goal. Here’s how to do it:

• Set Realistic Goals: Break down your syllabus into manageable portions and set daily, weekly, and monthly goals.
• Consult Expert Resources: Leverage the State Department’s recommended reading lists and expert-created study guides to elevate your preparation.
• Simulate Real Test Conditions: Familiarize yourself with the test’s timing and format by taking full-length, timed practice tests.

Foundational resources like study plans and test-specific guidance from resources such as What Diplomats Do can be invaluable assets as you build your study strategy.

Simulated examinations, or mock tests, can be your secret weapon as you aim to conquer the FSOT. Incorporating these into your study routine can aid in:

• Time Management: Learning to navigate through sections within the allocated time frame.
• Identifying Weaknesses: Pinpointing areas that require targeted improvement.
• Growth Tracking: Offering tangible metrics to gauge your progress over time.

Grasping the format of the test through practice exams can erase the unknown and replace it with familiarity, empowering you to walk in on test day with confidence.

Understanding how your efforts translate to scores gives you a sharper focus on what to prioritize within your preparation. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

• Every section has its scoring scale, with the Job Knowledge and Situational Judgment sections scored on a scale of 0-60, and the English Expression section on a scale of 0-80.
• The essay is scored on a scale of 0-12, with a passing grade being no less than a 6.

Arming yourself with knowledge on how the FSOT is graded can allow you to tailor your preparation to target those critical score-impacting areas.

Remember, your transition from student to diplomat begins with how well you marry studious preparation with strategic approach, epitomized by your engagement with fsot practice questions. No test can truly encapsulate your potential, but mastery of the FSOT is undoubtedly your first step on the diplomatic ladder.

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Dedicated to individuals who work for or aspire to work for the U.S. Foreign Service. This Reddit is NOT endorsed or supported in any way by the U.S. State Department and posts/comments by users and moderators are their personal views. Please feel free to share study tips, provide prompts for timed essay exercises, etc. Do not share anything that may be in breach of non-disclosure agreements. You can join our public Discord chat here: https://discord.gg/URvYjr3

How do you prepare for the FSOT essay?

Hi. Does anyone have any tips for how to practice writing strategically/prepare for the FSOT essay portion? I've thought of summarizing news articles as a writing exercise, and going through GRE essay questions to prepare. Is that a good approach or are there more effective uses of time? Thank you!

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FSOT Practice Test

Prepare for your test with realistic questions.

The Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) is required of anyone who is interested in working as a Foreign Service Officer of any kind. Whether you want to work in the consulate, diplomacy, politics, or any other department, taking this test will be a necessary step on your career path.

Click “Start Test” above to take a free FSOT practice test!

FSOT Eligibility

To be eligible to take the FSOT, you must adhere to the following guidelines:

• You must be no younger than 20 and no older than 59 on the day you register to take the exam
• You must be no younger than 21 and no older than 60 on the day you are appointed as a Foreign Service Officer
• You must be a US citizen on the day you submit your registration package
• You must be available for worldwide assignments

FSOT Exam Outline

The FSOT contains 153 questions and one essay, and you will be given between 3 and 3.5 hours to complete the test.

The test is split into four sections.

Job Knowledge (60 questions)

The questions in this section will cover the following:

• The US Constitution
• The roles of congress in foreign affairs
• The United States political system and how it affects government policy
• Major events
• National customs and culture
• Social issues and trends
• The influence that society has on foreign policy
• Historical events
• Developments
• The impacts any or all of the above items may have on foreign policy
• Understanding of the basic economic principles
• Understanding the economic system of the United States
• Understanding of basic math
• Understanding of statistical procedure
• General understanding of human behavior
• Motivational strategies
• Equal employment practices
• Principles of effective communication
• Public speaking
• The goals and techniques of public diplomacy
• Basic knowledge of word processing
• Database basics
• Spreadsheet basics
• Email basics
• Internet use basics

Situational Judgment (28 questions)

For each question in this section, there will be four or five possible responses for you to choose from. You will be asked to select the best and the worst possible responses.

These questions will evaluate your abilities regarding the following:

• Adaptability
• Decision-making
• Operational effectiveness
• Professional standards
• Team-building
• Workplace perceptiveness

English Expression (65 questions)

This section tests whether you can recognize a correctly written English sentence and will give you options to make corrections to the sentence if necessary. You will need to pay attention to details such as structure, grammar, punctuation, and spelling as you tackle this section.

For the FSOT essay, you will need to choose one of three topics to write 400-700 words about. Your essay should explain your position on the topic and explains your rationale for that position.

Check Out Mometrix's FSOT Study Guide

Get practice questions, video tutorials, and detailed study lessons

FSOT Application

The first step to taking the test is to apply. To fill out your application, you will first need to create a Pearson VUE account online. After your account is established, you can complete your eligibility requirements, fill out your application form, and complete your personal narratives.

Personal Narratives

As part of your application, you are required to write six short essays that highlight the knowledge, skills, and abilities that you have.

• Openness to dissent
• Community service you have been involved in or institution building
• Persuasion and negotiation skills
• Representational skills
• Written communication
• Oral communication
• Active listening
• Public outreach
• Foreign language skills
• Performance management and evaluation
• Management resources
• Customer service
• Information gathering and analysis skills
• Critical thinking
• Active learning
• Leadership and management training
• Understanding of US history
• Understanding of the US government
• Understanding of culture and application when dealing with other cultures
• Knowledge and understanding of career track information that is relevant

Check Out Mometrix's FSOT Flashcards

Get complex subjects broken down into easily understandable concepts

FSOT Registration

The FSOT is offered three times a year and each testing window comes with its own registration window. These windows are as follows:

• For tests given between June 2nd and June 9th, registration is open from May 2nd to May 30th.
• For tests given between September 29th and October 6th, registration is open from August 29th to September 26th.
• For tests given between February 2nd and February 9th, registration is open from January 2nd to January 30th.

You now have the option to take the FSOT at home using online proctoring. During registration, you will be given an option of where to take your exam. All you have to do is choose the online my-home or office option.

The fee to register is just $5, and that fee will be returned to you three weeks after you take the test. If you don’t show up to your test, however, you have to pay a $72 no-show fee.

In-person Testing

On the day of the test, you need to bring your admissions letter and a valid government-issued photo ID with you. If you are taking the exam at a consulate or embassy, you must use your US passport as your ID. Otherwise, a driver’s license, state ID, or military ID will also be accepted.

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early and account for any possible delays like traffic or detours, as there will be no allowances made if you show up late.

Remote Testing

The remote version of the exam is offered through Pearson Vue’s online testing system. You will need to ensure that your equipment meets the requirements before you test at home:

• You must have a desktop computer or laptop.
• You are only allowed to use one computer monitor.
• You must have a webcam and microphone.
• You must have a reliable wired or wireless internet connection.
• If you utilize any VPNs, they must be disabled for the entirety of the exam.

There are also certain rules you have to follow during the exam itself:

• Your eyes must be facing forward.
• You cannot cover or block the webcam.
• No other person may be in the room with you during the test.
• Your mobile phone, PDA, pagers, smartwatches, or other electronic devices must be left in another room while you are testing.
• You cannot have wallets, purses, backpacks, or bags near you.
• You cannot wear headphones or headsets.
• You cannot have paper, pens, notepads, books, or printed material on your desk or nearby.
• You cannot have an eyeglass case on your desk.
• Firearms and weapons of any kind cannot be visible.
• You cannot leave the room during the test.
• You cannot move your lips or appear to speak out loud while testing.
• Do not hide your face or cover your mouth during the exam.
• Eating and smoking, including vaping, will not be allowed.
• Do not wear a coat or jacket.

How the FSOT is Scored

You’ll be able to view your scores within three weeks of taking the test. The score required to pass the test can shift slightly from year to year due to the way that scores are calculated. However, you usually need a minimum cumulative score for the three multiple-choice sections of 154.

Then, you need at least a 6 out of a possible 12 points on the written essay. If you do achieve a 154 minimum on the first three sections, your essay won’t be graded. If you do not pass the exam, you have to wait a full 12 months before retaking it. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time (at least six months) to study and prepare for this test.

Online FSOT Prep Course

If you want to be fully prepared, Mometrix offers an online Foreign Service Officer Test prep course. The course is designed to provide you with any and every resource you might want while studying. The FSOT course includes:

• Review Lessons Covering Every Topic
• 1,700+ Foreign Service Officer Test Practice Questions
• More than 900 Electronic Flashcards
• Over 180 Instructional Videos
• Money-back Guarantee
• Free Mobile Access

The Foreign Service Officer Test prep course is designed to help any learner get everything they need to prepare for their FSOT exam. Click below to check it out!

How many questions are on the FSOT?

There are 153 multiple-choice questions and one essay.

How long is the FSOT?

The time limit is 3.5 hours.

How much does the FSOT cost?

There is a temporary $5 fee that will be refunded after you take the test.

What is a passing score for the FSOT?

To pass the FSOT, you will need a combined score of at least 154.

By Peter Rench

Peter Rench joined Mometrix in 2009 and serves as Vice President of Product Development, responsible for overseeing all new product development and quality improvements. Mr. Rench, a National Merit Scholar, graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and a minor in mathematics from Texas A&M University.

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by Mometrix Test Preparation | Last Updated: August 21, 2024

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Comprehensive online training for aspiring U.S. diplomats

Prepare for the Foreign Service Officer testing and application process with leading resources and a motivating community.

Thinking of joining the Foreign Service, but...

Not sure about the career and lifestyle, struggling to prepare for the fsot, frustrated with personal narrative writing, looking for a community of peers, we get it. that's why we created fso compass..

Preparing you to become a U.S. diplomat

If you’re considering a career as a diplomat, you know it’s a challenging and lengthy process. That’s why we created FSO Compass to support you through every stage of the Foreign Service application process. From writing your application and personal narratives, to preparing for the exam, Compass has you covered.

Unlike traditional “study guides” that can quickly become outdated, we regularly update Compass to ensure that you have the most current information for your application. Our online tests closely mimic the actual exam in terms of format and content so that you can feel confident in your preparation. Our PN Challenge also helps you craft strong, compelling personal narratives. And by training alongside others, you’ll benefit from a sense of community and support as you work towards your goal.

A holistic approach to preparation

Our goal is to provide you with the best preparation option, which means we continually improve and expand what is available. Here are some resources we provide to help you prepare for the application process.

The best way to prepare for an exam as broad as the FSOT is to practice taking the test.

Studies show that practice tests are the best way to prepare for exams. This is because they implement spaced retrieval practice, with the learner pulling information out of their memory when applying it to the question, which hardens that information in memory (Oakley & Sejnowski, 2018). Plus, they alert the student to topics they need help understanding and need to study before the actual exam.

FSO Compass provides practice tests for the Job Knowledge, English Expression, and Essay sections of the FSOT. The tests simulate the actual test in question type, the number of questions, the user interface, and functionality (e.g., skipping and reviewing questions). At the end of each test, we suggest study areas to help you find success.

According to a review of the research on student testing by the American Institutes for Research, “low-stakes, frequent testing can have a positive impact on student learning and achievement” (Black and Wiliam, 1998).

For this reason, we’ve put together a weekly ten-question quiz to help you prepare for the FSOT. These are retired test questions focused on the job knowledge section of the FSOT. With 53 quizzes, you have enough to last through a year of study.

If you’re aspiring to become a U.S. diplomat, our self-paced courses are here to help you succeed.

With four courses to choose from, you’ll have the guidance and support you need to help pass the QEP, from learning about the Foreign Service and the different career tracks available, to submitting your application, writing compelling personal narratives, and preparing for the Foreign Service Officer Test.

We regularly update our courses to reflect changes to the application process, so you can trust that you’re receiving the most accurate and current information.

Consider participating in the Personal Narrative Challenge if you need help writing your narratives.

For 30 days, the Challenge brings together a cohort of FSO candidates who receive accountability, support, and guidance. During the Challenge, receive daily advice on best practices for narrative writing and access to tools to craft solid and compelling narratives. Our writing framework provides structure and guidance, but there is also flexibility to pursue your own schedule within the timeframe.

As part of the group, you’ll submit a new narrative every few days and receive feedback from at least two other members each time. This consistent accountability helps you stay on track with your writing and ensure completion.

Plus, as part of a cohort of members within the FSO Compass community working towards the same goal, you’ll have the support and encouragement of your fellow candidates.

One of the critical features of our online membership is the ability to join a community of like-minded individuals. We understand that the testing process can be long and distinct and that those in your circles may not know what you are going through. With FSO Compass, you’ll find a platform for applicants to support each other.

In Compass, you’ll find a wealth of resources to help you navigate the testing process. From study materials and practice exams to forums and monthly meetings, we’ve created various tools to help you succeed.

Whether you’re just starting on your path to the Foreign Service or far along, you’ll find a supportive and understanding group of candidates in Compass.

Don’t go through the testing process alone. Join Compass.

The monthly virtual meeting is an exclusive opportunity for members to come together and discuss whatever is top of mind, whether the FSO application and testing process or something else. Additionally, it is an opportunity to share ideas and network with other candidates.

The monthly meetings help bring together the Compass community. Don’t miss out on this valuable feature – join us for our next monthly meeting.

As a member of Compass, you’ll have access to a curated list of additional resources to help you study and prepare. Our index includes various materials, such as videos, audio recordings, and text-based material, covering all subject areas on the FSOT. We’ve also included tools to help you improve your essay-writing skills.

We understand that preparing for the FSOT can be overwhelming, and various learning methods exist. We want to support you on your path to the Foreign Service.

Join us as we interview current and former diplomats to learn more about the exciting career and lifestyle of the Foreign Service. Our recent interviews have included a former ambassador, insights into the consular and public diplomacy career tracks, and a deep dive into the role of the OMS. Plus, we’ve even discussed the challenges and joys of raising a family in the Foreign Service.

All members are welcome to participate in these calls and ask their questions live. Can’t make an interview? No problem! We record and transcribe all calls, and you will have access to all past and future recordings.

Each week, we curate a list of virtual events specifically focused on diplomacy, the State Department, and the career and lifestyle of the Foreign Service. With access to our calendar of upcoming events and participating in these informative and engaging events, you can expand your knowledge and understanding of this exciting career path.

Hear from other applicants.

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Very true. You could ask yourself questions you find on the internet (e.g., question banks), from a study guide, or in your head, but then you are limited. The practice tests on Compass closely replicate the FSOT.

Each multiple-choice tested section includes:

• Countdown clock,
• Questions that are asked one at a time,
• Questions that simulate all of the testing areas,
• An ‘answer later’ function, and
• A review section.

Likewise, the essay practice test will prompt you with random questions, you will have limited time to select and write your essay, and you will not have access to grammar tools.

There is nothing else online or offline that has as many functions. In short, know this, by completing practice tests that replicate the test and testing environment, like the ones on Compass, you increase your likelihood of scoring well on the FSOT.

The practice test questions on FSO Compass are unique. They are similar to the scope, number, and type of area questions of the actual test. To the best of our ability and knowledge, none of the questions are from former FSOT questions. The practice tests keep to the principles and stipulations of the Non-Disclosure Agreement.

FSO Compass focuses on the Foreign Service Officer (FSO) application and testing process. However, the Foreign Service Specialist (FSS) career tracks and Consular Fellows Program have similar testing components to the FSO track. If any of the above resources resonate with your application process, then feel free to join. We will direct your attention to the specific sections that will benefit you.

You get access to everything already inside FSO Compass straight away! No waiting for content to be released to you, jump in and start using the training immediately. You have immediate access as FSO Compass grows and we add new material.

If you’re not 100% satisfied, you can easily cancel whenever you want on the account page with a click of a mouse.

We are here to help. Contact us at Support , and we’ll be happy to assist you.

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• Apr 26, 2020

Improve your writing for the FSOT

Updated: Apr 14, 2021

Writing is an important part of the Foreign Service exam because it’s an important part of being a diplomat. I would argue that, if you’re serious about being a diplomat, or any related profession, you should invest in polishing your writing skills as soon as possible.

We can all write. It’s a learned skill and everybody has some of it already. Reaching the standard expected by the Board of Examiners (BEX), and later by your supervisor, is also doable as long as you take it seriously. I grew up in the Netherlands and never had formal training in writing in English—yet with practice and the consultation of a few books I got by just fine. So you probably can too.

How to improve writing for the FSOT

To pass the FSOT, you have to write something similar to the five-point essay you learned about in school. The good news is you don’t need to be an expert on this topic—I didn’t even know what it was until a few weeks before taking the test. In case you don’t know what it is either, just head over to Google. Then use the information you find as a basis for future writing practice.

Fundamentals

If you want to improve your writing, first ask yourself how your fundamentals are. What are your weaknesses? One way to figure it out is by writing a few paragraphs and giving it to someone else to correct. If you’re too embarrassed to do that, you could also review it yourself the next day and correct your errors (there are always errors).

When you do this a few times, you’ll figure out exactly where to devote extra attention when you write. You may also notice stylistic issues, like repetitiveness, sentences that are too long, or abrupt endings.

Once you know what you need to improve, you can make a plan. If your knowledge of grammar is already good, perhaps all you need is a quick review. Personally, I found the “Elements of Good Writing” chapter in Cliff TestPrep Foreign Service Officer Exam very useful. It took only a few hours to read and helped me avoid making basic mistakes.

If you need more support, or if you’re just more serious about writing, you might want to (re-)read one of the better books on the topic, such as “ Writing Well” by William Zinsser . Don’t get scared by the very idea of reading a whole book on basic writing skills—this book is fun and easy to read, and truly insightful.

Practice is key. To become a better writer, you need to write as much as possible. It doesn’t really matter what you write about, but considering the most frequently used formats during the test and in the Foreign Service, I’d suggest writing a few (5-8) succinct paragraphs on a variety of topics.

You can start by writing about topics you’re intimately familiar with like your family history, your academic thesis, or the storyline of Titanic . But I’d recommend writing about professional and political topics. I found it very useful to visit the website ProCon.org to find ideas for my next writing exercise, while at the same time learning more about current policy issues.

There’s a website called Path to the Foreign Service (albeit written by someone who isn’t a FSO) that has a “simulator” to help you practice writing the FSOT essay. It offers a few sample topics and provides a space to write in. Other advantages are that it doesn’t have spell check, which makes you focus more on writing correctly and mimics what the test looks like.

Read & copy

Whenever you read an article or a book, pay attention to what you like about the way it’s written. For example, there aren’t fixed rules for certain punctuation marks, such as commas (Oxford comma) or how to use “em dashes.” Reading something that’s particularly well written, such as the book Writing Well I mentioned above, provides a good opportunity to pick the style you like best (and then stick to it!).

Please don’t worry about your “writing style.” As William Zinsser says somewhere in the book, and I’m paraphrasing here, the best writing style you can possibly have is writing in clear and correct English. This means you should focus primarily on learning the basic rules of English grammar and usage and find ways to deal with gray areas and other writing challenges consistently.

Structure is also important. You’ve probably learned in school that all writings should start with an interesting fact, a brief introduction of the topic, followed by context and arguments, and end with a summary and clear conclusion. If you struggle with this format, look at how other writers are implementing it and copy their approaches.

There’s nothing wrong with copying other people’s words and sentences, by the way. In fact, using other people’s nice words and phrases is just going to make you a better writer. I’m pretty sure that’s how all writers started out—studying others and trying to mimic whatever they considered good writing.

Write like you mean it

Writing is a wonderful skill that can be used in hundreds of different ways. Whatever you end up doing in life, writing well is going to help you. So don’t feel like writing about your life, your career, or issues that interest you is a waste of time—it’s great practice. If you’re serious about writing, I encourage you to start a diary or blog.

But even if you don’t, you should still consider yourself a “serious” writer. Don’t write as if what you have to say is not really interesting, or you don’t know anything. If you want to be taken seriously, it’s important to believe you’re a good writer and what you’re saying is meaningful because it represents your unique insight and experience.

Experienced writers typically choose a certain “angle” when they write. They won’t touch a topic unless they have a creative new way to approach it—they have to sell their work, after all. As a beginning writer, however, you should worry less about finding a creative angle and focus instead on presenting your points clearly and concisely, and using a clear structure to make it easy for readers to digest.

Edit and tighten it up

My final advice is: edit your work rigorously. Don’t fall in love with your own words or depend on your “instinct.” First drafts are typically full of mistakes and clutter that make it really hard for others to follow along. No matter how much flair you (think you) have, an unusual word choice may not as cute as you think and jokes often fall flat. So make sure you save enough time to edit your work thoroughly (brutally, if you will).

Want to know more about a career with the State Department? Check out careers.state.gov or check it out on social media @DOSCareers

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Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) Online Preparation, Tips & Free FSOT Practice Test Questions – 2024

• Foreign Service Officer Test
• Free FSOT Test Questions

What Is the Foreign Service Officer Test?

The Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) is a required exam for anyone seeking to become a Foreign Service Officer (FSO). The test takes about three hours to complete and consists of four sections, including 125 multiple-choice questions, 28 multiple-choice scenarios, and an essay.

The Pearson VUE administers the FSOT exam on behalf of the Department of the State and the Foreign Service. The test is a computer-based assessment given at specific Pearson VUE testing centers.

The purpose of the Pearson FSOT is to screen candidates who are likely to succeed in the Foreign Service. The assessment is a required and crucial stage in the Foreign Service Officer Selection Process.

Foreign Service Officer Selection Process

An FSO is a member of the United States Foreign Service that assists in formulating and implementing the foreign policy of the U.S. These diplomats support prosperity, promote peace, and protect American citizens while advancing U.S. interests in other countries. There are five career paths in the Foreign Service, all of which will require you to take the Foreign Officer Test:

• Economic Affairs
• Political Affairs
• Consular Affairs
• Management Affairs
• Public Diplomacy

To become an FSO, you must go through the following process:

• Step 1: Choose a Career Path. You must choose which of the five career paths above best align with your passions and skills.
• Step 2: Register for the FSOT. There are eligibility requirements that you must meet to register for the FSOT. Additionally, you must register within specific testing windows and pay a test fee.
• Step 3: Pass the FSOT. Once registered, you will need to prepare for and do well on the FSOT exam.
• Step 4: Qualifications Evaluation Panel. Those who do well on the FSOT will move on to the Qualifications Evaluation Panel (QEP), and the panel will grade and review your written essay.
• Step 5: Oral Assessment. Successful candidates will then need to complete an oral assessment, essentially a job interview.
• Step 6: Medical and Security Clearances. Each position will require different clearances. They will notify you of the requirements once you reach this process stage.
• Step 7: Suitability Review Panel. This stage is essentially a background check. A panel will review your past behaviors, criminal record, and prior employment to determine if you are suited for a career in the Foreign Service.
• Step 8: The Register. If you successfully complete all stages of the process, your name is placed on a register for 18 months, and you may be offered an appointment if an opportunity becomes available.

Who Can Take the FSOT Exam?

There are specific eligibility requirements for those who wish to take the FSOT. Those requirements state that test takers must be:

• A U.S. citizen
• Between the ages of 20 and 59 during registration for the FSOT
• Between the ages of 21 and 59 when appointed an FSO
• Available for assignments worldwide

Registering for the FSOT Test

There are three times throughout the year that you can register for the FSOT. The test is administered in February, June, and October, with registration windows opening five weeks before each exam. Please note that though the test is offered three times per year, you are only eligible to take the exam once every 12 months.

Foreign Service Exam Fees

Test-takers must also pay a test fee for the FSOT exam. The test fee is $5. However, if you cancel your registration within 48 hours of the test or miss the exam, you will be charged a $72 fee. You must pay this fee before you are eligible to reschedule your test.

FSOT Test Sections

Job knowledge.

The Job Knowledge section of the FSOT consists of 60 questions that you will have 40 minutes to complete (40 seconds per question). This exam portion will cover several areas across all five Foreign Service career paths. You will be required to have an understanding of several subjects, including:

• World History: Including historical events, developments, and issues, particularly their impact on U.S. foreign policy.
• S. History: Including significant events, politics, national customs, and the influence of society on foreign policy in the U.S.
• S. Government: General understanding of the U.S. political system, including the constitution and congress’s role in foreign affairs.
• Math and Statistics: Knowledge of basic math and statistical procedures.
• Economics: Understanding of basic economic principles and the U.S. economic system.
• Communication: Understand the components of effective communication, including public speaking, media, and the techniques of public diplomacy.
• Management Principles: General understanding of human behavior, motivational strategies, and leadership.
• Computers and Internet: Basic knowledge of spreadsheets, email, word processing, and internet use.

The Situational Judgment Test (SJT) in the FSOT exam consists of 28 questions that you will have 42 minutes to complete (90 seconds per question). For each question, you will receive a scenario and four or five possible responses, to which you will need to identify the best and worst choice. The scenarios in this test will cover different aspects of team building, professional standards, workplace issues, and decision-making.

Please note that you will not need any particular knowledge of State Department or Foreign Service policies to complete this exam portion. However, you will want to ensure that you keep FSO values in mind, approach every scenario diplomatically, and respond honestly to each question. Practice free SJT test questions to score higher.

English Expression

The English Expression portion of the FSOT exam has a time limit of 50 minutes, during which you will need to answer 65 questions (46 seconds per question). This section will test you in all aspects of the English language, including grammar, vocabulary , and sentence structure.

During this section, you will need to correct sentences, choose the correct sentence out of the options given, and organize or revise given paragraphs. This test portion is also multiple-choice; you will receive four options for each question. Click here to practice additional free verbal reasoning test questions .

English Essay Writing

The last portion of the test is the written essay. You will have 32 minutes to complete this section. You will receive seven minutes to choose from three topics, and then you will have 25 minutes to complete a 400 to 700-word essay. During this write-up, you must pick a position on the topic and defend the rationale for your opinion. The reviewers will score your essay based on how well you analyzed and defended your position.

Topics in this section may cover areas in any of the career paths, including:

• Economics and finance
• International affairs
• Social issues
• Customs and culture

Foreign Service Officer Test Scoring

It will take roughly three weeks to receive your score from the FSOT exam. The results are given in percentiles, which means your raw score is compared to other test-takers before calculating your final score.

The first three test sections (Job Knowledge, Situational Judgment, and English Expression) are scored first. You must have a combined score of 154 to pass this first scoring round. If you fail to make a 154, your candidacy will end, and you will have the option to retest in 12 months.

If you receive a score of 154 or higher on the multiple-choice portion of the FSOT, The QEP will receive your essay to review. The essay score is worth up to 12 points, though a score higher than 8 is rare. You must obtain a six or higher on the essay to pass. Any candidates who score below a six will be eliminated from the process.

How to Prepare for the Foreign Service Officer Exam?

The Foreign Service test is difficult for candidates because of the knowledge required and the strict time limits on each section. There is also a lot of pressure due to the 12-month wait time between attempts. To ensure that you do well in all areas of the FSOT, you must prepare for different portions of the exam.

You can find FSOT prep online, including practice FSOT questions and full-length Foreign Service Officer practice tests. Be sure to work through the sample questions to help you understand what kinds of questions you will be asked on the U.S. Foreign Service exam. Full-length tests can also help you rehearse your timing for the actual exam.

Because the FSOT exam is so complex, studying is the only way to do well. Take advantage of all the resources available to you and be sure you thoroughly prepare before you register for the exam. Those who take the time to prepare are more likely to do well on the test and progress in the FSO process.

10 Free FSOT Exam Practice Questions:

Job knowledge example questions.

The following are examples of questions you may find in the Job Knowledge section of the FSOT:

Sample Question 1:

Understanding the audience, telling a story, and using inclusive language are techniques that help a public speaker to:

• Call out individuals in the audience
• Bore the audience
• Engage the audience
• Increase anxiety in the audience

The answer is choice C, engage the audience.

Sample Question 2:

If a congressional bill receives a Presidential veto, how can Congress override the Presidential vote?

• Passing the bill again by a two-thirds majority in both houses
• Passing the bill again by a three-fourths majority in both houses
• It is not possible to overturn a Presidential veto
• Refusing to sign the bill

The correct answer is A, passing the bill with a two-thirds majority in both houses.

Sample Question 3:

The test scores for five students are 85, 92, 78, 96, and 84. What is the student’s average test score?

The correct answer is choice B, 87.

Situational Judgment Example Questions

The following are examples of questions that you may encounter on the FSOT exam:

Your colleague is transferring to another unit, and the head of that unit has approached you for a reference. You know your colleague regularly misses deadlines, shows up late, and works through tasks quickly and carelessly.

What is the BEST course of action?

• Tell the head of the unit that your colleague is a great worker, so you no longer have to deal with their missed deadlines.
• State that your colleague regularly misses deadlines, shows up late, and works quickly and carelessly.
• Mention that they sometimes show up late sometimes but always get their work done on time.
• Warn the unit head that your colleague is a horrible worker and should not be allowed in their unit.

The correct answer in this scenario is choice B, state that your colleague regularly misses deadlines, shows up late, and works quickly and carelessly.

In the scenario described above, what is the WORST course of action?

The WORST course of action in this scenario is answer choice A, tell the head of the unit that your colleague is a great worker, so you no longer have to deal with their missed deadlines.

English Expression Example Questions

The following are examples of questions you may find in the English Expression section of the FSOT:

In the following sentence, select the underlined phrase that needs to be modified to correct the sentence:

Though the tornado passed over Molly’s apartment, the amount of units damaged was enough to cause the residents in her building to relocate temporarily.

• passed over
• amount of units
• to relocate temporarily

The correct answer is B, amount of units.

Please choose the correct sentence from the choices below:

• Sally goes to the beach yesterday.
• Sally went to the Beach yesterday.
• Sally goes to the beach Yesterday.
• Sally went to the beach yesterday.

The correct answer is D; Sally went to the beach yesterday.

Put the following sentences in the correct order to create a logical paragraph:

Sentence 1: Sally bought five bananas, and Bob bought four mangos.

Sentence 2: Bob and Sally went to the market.

Sentence 3: Therefore, Bob spent more money at the Market than Sally.

Sentence 4: Mangos are twice as expensive as bananas.

The correct answer is D, sentences 2, 1, 4, then 3.

Essay Example Prompts

The following are prompts similar to what you may encounter on the FSOT exam:

Example Question 1:

With the rise of social media over the last few years, more and more people can share their opinions on politics and policy. Because these people have a significant following online, they have the power to sway other peoples’ opinions. In your view, what should the role of these influencers be on policy and public opinion? Is it easier for them to change others’ views because of their presence on social media? Do they have the right to express their views on a public platform, or should they keep their opinions private to not sway voters in either direction? Carefully explain your position.

Example Question 2:

Gun control is a hot topic among American citizens and an issue that politicians tend to avoid. Many believe their second amendment right should not be infringed upon, while others believe that regular citizens should not have access to such weapons. Still, others feel that both sides can reach a compromise to enforce restrictions on those seeking firearms while not banning guns for responsible owners. In your view, what, if anything, should be done regarding gun control in America. Carefully explain your reasoning behind your decision.

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Improvements in the Foreign Service Selection Process

Office of the Spokesperson

April 26, 2022

To meet the Secretary’s goals to modernize American diplomacy, win the competition for talent, and ensure that all applicants can present a full picture of their qualifications, the Department of State is making changes to the Foreign Service assessment process, beginning with the June 2022 Foreign Service Officer (FSOT) test takers.  The Department will no longer use the FSOT as a pass/fail gateway test.  Going forward, the education, experience, and personal narratives submitted by candidates will be evaluated alongside the FSOT score.  This will allow the Department to take a more holistic view of candidates before determining who will proceed to the Foreign Service Oral Assessment (FSOA).

The steps of the new process are outlined below:

Submit Foreign Service Application and Register for the FSOT : Candidates begin the process by completing an application that includes personal data, education and employment history, and responses to six Personal Narrative questions. Once the application is complete, candidates can register for the FSOT.

Personal Narratives (PN) : The PN responses describe the knowledge, skills, and abilities the candidate would bring to the Foreign Service. The PNs offer the opportunity to highlight not just what the candidate has done, but how they did it. PNs are linked to core precepts that are predictors of success in the Foreign Service: leadership, interpersonal, communication, management, and intellectual skills, and substantive knowledge.

The FSOT : The FSOT is a series of multiple-choice questions that measure a candidate’s job knowledge, English expression, and situational judgment.  It also includes a 30-minute essay on an assigned topic.  The FSOT can be completed at home or at designated test centers in the U.S. and abroad and takes about three hours to complete.

Qualifications Evaluation Panel (QEP) : Once the candidate has completed the FSOT, their file, including their FSOT score, biographic information, personal narratives, and their response to the FSOT essay prompt, are sent to the QEP.  The Panel evaluates all candidates’ complete packages and rank orders them according to their career track. The best-qualified candidates are invited to oral assessments.

Foreign Service Oral Assessment (FSOA) : The FSOA is a day-long exercise consisting of a group exercise, a case management exercise, and a structured interview.  Candidates who reach or exceed the minimum FSOA cutoff score will receive conditional offers of employment.  Once candidates receive medical and security clearances, they will undergo a suitability review before being placed on a register of cleared candidates for hire.

U.S. Department of State

The lessons of 1989: freedom and our future.

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FSOT Test Format and Layout

The FSOT exam is a computerized exam that will test the multiple different facets of your knowledge that the State Department believes is critical to being a successful Foreign Service Officer.

To do this, the FSOT is broken up into four different sections:

• Job Knowledge
• English Expression and Usage
• Biographical Information

To help you prepare for the Foreign Service Officer Test, we’ll go through each section and discuss what you can expect from each and how you can prepare for them prior to taking the official FSOT.

FSOT Section: Job Knowledge

The Job Knowledge section is typically the hardest of the four.  So as to prove that you have an all-around understanding of the world around you and a core structure of knowledge in other subjects, the Job Knowledge section will test you in a multitude of subjects like:

• Mathematics
• US Government
• World History
• Management techniques
• Pop culture

This is not something that you can just pick up a book and master in a couple of hours.  This is usually an amalgamation of years of experience or thousands of hours in extra education.  If you aren’t already up to that level, then you need to start and start immediately.   Just remember, the preparing for the FSOT is more like a marathon and less like a sprint.

So as to get a good jump on it, I highly recommend you take the free practice test and check out a professional study guide .  Both will be critical in your self-assessment as well as your studying.

FSOT Section: English Expression and Usage

The English Expressions section of the FSOT is focused on ACT and SAT level English questions.  They’ll provide a couple of paragraphs and mark certain parts for you to decide what would be the proper grammar.

To prepare for this section, you need to get familiar with the rules AND their proper use.  For this second part, you can’t just get a normal grammar book and slog through it.  Instead, I recommend getting a grammar book that creates ingenious ways of remembering rules and gives enough practicality that during a highly important and time-critical exam, you are able to work on the fly.

My personal favorite is the Perfect English Grammar book. Study this, and you'll be absolutely fine.

• Barrett, Grant (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 238 Pages - 03/29/2016 (Publication Date) - Callisto (Publisher)

FSOT Section: Biographic Information

Biographical Information is just that…information about you.

Now, most would recommend that you write something grand and incredible so that you stick out.  BUT be careful about doing this.  Your Biographical Information supplied in this section can and will be used against you in your Oral Assessment (OA).  So, don’t go overboard and not be able to back it up.

Also, one design inside of this is to get you to contradict yourself by answering questions one way and later on being asked that same question but in another round-about way and see if your answers vary.

Be on your guard in this section.  I personally don’t think it has as much weight as the other sections do, but it’s a lot more tricky than people think.

FSOT Essays

For the Essays, you will be asked to answer two questions.  It’s not exactly the answer you give, but the way you deliver it that counts.  You could argue that the sky is green…so long as you have a well-structured article on the matter and follow these simple rules:

• Ensure you have a thesis and state it in the first paragraph
• Support your argument with 3 paragraphs
• Give a counter-argument, but counter that counter argument
• Give a conclusion that wraps it up
• Take your time and ensure you do not have any grammar or spell mistakes

I personally think that the essays in this day and age are much easier than it used to be.  Years ago, you would have to write your answers by hand and handwriting was an important part.  For me, it was extremely difficult because I have “chicken-scratch” type writing.  So, I was extra slow and had to focus on my writing style more than the words themselves – although

Once you have completed this section of the test, 2 Pearson Vue testers will check your responses.

At this point, you are now complete.  Now, go get a stiff drink and await the news.

Just wanted to let you know that the format of the test has supposedly changed and section three is now Situational Judgement Test instead of Biographical.

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FSOT Practice Test 2024 and Study Guide [PDF]

Last Updated on August 12, 2024

Foreign Service Officer FSOT Practice Test 2024 and Study Guide [PDF]: Download the free pdf for Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) Exam practice test question answers and the official study guide information PDF.

If you want to become a Foreign Service Officer (FSO), you must first register for and take the Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT). To register for the FSOT, you must meet specific eligibility requirements. These include U.S. citizenship, an age requirement, and worldwide availability.

Table of Contents

FSOT Practice Test 2024

The purpose of the practice Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) is to provide you with a realistic preview of the computer-based FSOT. The FSOT Practice Test 2022 simulates the actual FSOT in terms of questions, length of testing, and administration.

Scores achieved will indicate your potential performance on an actual FSOT with good probability. The FSOT practice test includes the Job Knowledge, English Expression, and Situational Judgment sections of the FSOT, including Written Essay.

• FSOT Pretest Questions Answers
• FSOT Job Knowledge Practice Test
• FSOT Situational Judgment Test
• FSOT English Expression Practice Test

FSOT Exam 2024

The Foreign Service Officer Test is administered by Pearson VUE and is offered thrice yearly in February, June, and October. The Foreign Service Officer Test measures your knowledge, skills, and abilities, including writing skills that are necessary to the work of a Foreign Service Officer.

The FSOT is administered online at designated test centers in the U.S. and abroad and takes about three hours to complete. It includes three multiple-choice sections:

• Job knowledge: Questions will cover a broad range of topics including, but not limited to, the structure and workings of the U.S. Government, U.S. and world history, U.S. culture, psychology, technology, management theory, finance and economics, and world affairs;
• English expression; and
• A situational judgment section will present scenarios (i.e., descriptions of situations) that a candidate might encounter as a Foreign Service Officer.

In addition, you will be given 30 minutes to write an essay on an assigned topic. You must complete the multiple-choice tests to have your essay graded.

The first three sections of the test contain items in a multiple-choice format. The Written Essay appears in the last section of the FSOT. Each section of the test is timed separately and must be completed within the designated time limit.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible, the U.S. Department of State requires that each candidate be:

• A U.S. citizen on the date the candidate submits the registration package
• At least 20 years old and no older than 59 years of age on the day the candidate submits the registration
• At least 21 years old and not yet 60 on the day the candidate is appointed as a Foreign Service Officer
• Available for worldwide assignments, including Washington, D.C.

Official Practice Test 2024

• FSOT Practice Test: Candidates who wish to take a practice FSOT should visit https://careers.state.gov/survey/FSOT-Careers/.
• FSOT Practice Test APP: Candidates can also download the Department’s mobile app at https://careers.state.gov/apps/ for additional practice FSOT questions.

FSOT Study Guide [PDF]

Knowledge of the following areas has been identified as essential for success across all five career tracks (Consular, Economic, Management, Political and Public Diplomacy):

• Proper English usage
• U.S. society, culture, economy, history, government, political systems and the Constitution
• World history and geography
• World political and social issues

In addition, all Foreign Service Officers should have a general understanding of:

• Basic mathematics and statistics
• Computer usage
• Principles of management
• Effective interpersonal communication
• Basic economic principles

Depending on the career track, more in-depth knowledge is needed in some areas. In-depth knowledge may be required in the following areas:

• U.S. and international political and economic principles, issues and history
• U.S. Government and non-governmental agencies and organizations and their interactions with the Department of State
• U.S. diplomacy, democratic philosophy and educational practices
• U.S. policy issues and public and foreign policy formulation
• Legislation and laws related to Foreign Service issues
• International economics, finance and commerce
• Administrative methods and procedures
• Information and media resources

Information for How to Prepare for the FSOT 2024

Foreign Service Officer Selection Process at the Official U.S. Department of State Website

• Use the Guide to the Foreign Service Selection Process , which contains sample test questions.
• Mobile Application with over 500 retired questions for additional study [ View ]
• Review the Suggested Reading List ( PDF )
• View the Suggested Course List ( PDF )
• Contact a Diplomat in Residence near you if you have questions and to find out about test information sessions that may be held in your area.
• Official Test Guide and Information Download link

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The Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT)

The U.S. Department of State strongly encourages candidates to use a personal email address to which they will have regular, long-term access throughout the hiring process. Please consider this carefully before using a .edu or other email that may be attached to any current student or employee roles. Please also note the Department of State will communicate with candidates via the email address they provide at the time of original application and failure to respond by established deadlines may result in the Department of State discontinuing a candidate’s application. Candidates who are current U.S. government employees may not use their U.S. government email addresses for the Foreign Service application, testing, and assessment process.

The Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) is an important part of the FSO selection process, covering the job knowledge, English expression and situational judgement necessary to work as a Foreign Service Officer. The FSOT also includes an essay. View complete information on the  FSOT and the selection process .

Please note:  New candidates must  create a web account  before they can submit an application.

FSOT At-Home Online Proctored Testing (OnVUE)

Before the exam

• Visit the FSOT Online Proctoring page and review information on exam policies and procedures, system requirements, and the System Test.
• It is very important to complete the required System Test on the same computer, in the same location, and at the same time as your exam appointment so the System Test can accurately read the computer’s connectivity in that location and timeframe.
• Corporate, university, and military firewalls often cause issues while trying to take your exam. We strongly recommend taking your exam in a setting without an institutional firewall.
• Review the identification requirements below

On exam day

Showing Up : We ask that you log into your Pearson VUE account 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time to start the check-in process and to allow for any troubleshooting. If you click on the “Begin Exam” button more than 15 minutes after your scheduled exam time, you will be considered a No Show and are unlikely to receive a refund.

Identification : Please be prepared to show one (1) valid form of unexpired, Government-issued personal ID. The Government-issued ID must have your signature and must have your photo. The name on the exam registration in the Pearson VUE system must match the name on the Government issued ID exactly. Please verify that your name listed on your confirmation email matches your identification.  *If your identification is not considered valid, you will not be permitted to complete your exam and are unlikely to receive a refund.*

Examples of acceptable identification:

• Driver’s license
• Military ID (including spouse and dependent)
• Identification card (national or local)
• Registration card (such as green card, permanent resident, visa)

Please note that we are unable to accept the following ID’s for an online proctored exam:

• Renewal forms with expired ID’s
• Government-issued name change documents with Government ID

Personal Belongings : FSOT exams are closed-book exams. No personal items should be in the testing room. This includes all bags, purses, wallets, reference materials of any kind (books, notes or papers, etc.), electronic devices except for your cell phone (no tablets, PDAs, watches, calculators, etc.), writing instruments, food, beverages, etc.

Please note that you are required to have a clean and clutter free workstation. During check in, the Proctor will ask you to perform a room and desk scan using your phone or webcam and will inspect any materials near your workstation.

Logging into your Pearson VUE account:

• Login to your  Pearson VUE Account
• Click on the Schedule/Reschedule my FSOT
• Click “Begin Exam” and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the check-in process
• Important : the “Begin Exam” button will show up 30 minutes before your exam appointment and will remain available until 15 minutes after your exam appointment. If the “Begin Exam” button is not visible, you are either too early or too late for your exam. Please check your appointment details to make sure you’re trying to start at the proper time.
• During the check-in process, you will be asked for your phone number so Pearson VUE staff can communicate with you while you are checking in for your exam. You will be asked to take a photo on your phone of yourself, your ID, and 4 photos of your room. The check-in process takes approximately 15 minutes for candidates who have previously completed a system test. After you have completed the check-in process, you will be asked to place your phone out of reach, but close enough to be heard.
• Once you have completed the check-in process you will be contacted by a Proctor to begin your exam at your appointment time. You may not be contacted by the Proctor before your appointment time to start the exam.

Facial Comparison Policy

You understand and agree that Pearson VUE may use facial comparison technology for the purpose of verifying your identity during the testing process. It will compare your facial image to the one on your identification and to facial images captured during the testing process and help us further develop, upgrade, and improve this application. If you do not agree to the use of facial comparison technology during your testing session, do not accept this term. You will not be able to complete your registration online. Instead, please call the Pearson VUE call center to complete your registration.

Reporting Unusual Circumstances : Significant and unusual circumstances that occur during the testing process should be reported immediately to the Pearson VUE exam proctor so an incident report can be filed. If you are unable to communicate with the proctor you are required to notify Person VUE ASAP. 

Reschedule Policy

Rescheduling an exam appointment can be done in your  Pearson VUE account  24/7 or by calling Pearson VUE at  (888) 572-2276 Mon-Fri, 7-7 Central . You can reschedule your OnVue exam right up to the scheduled appointment time at no cost. If you do not reschedule your appointment before the scheduled appointment time and do not take the exam, it will be considered a No Show and you will forfeit your entire exam fee.

Cancellation Policy

Canceling an exam appointment can be done in your  Pearson VUE account  24/7 or by calling Pearson VUE at  (888) 572-2276 Mon-Fri, 7-7 Central . You can cancel your OnVue exam right up to the scheduled appointment time at no cost. If you do not cancel your appointment before the scheduled appointment time and do not take the exam, it will be considered a No Show and you will forfeit your entire exam fee.

No Shows : Failure to appear for an exam forfeits the entire exam fee, unless documentation of extenuating circumstances is provided within 10 days, such as: death in the family, serious illness, or military duty. In such circumstances, the candidate should email the State Department at  [email protected]  as soon as possible, providing documentation and a full description of the situation.

Exam Canceled by Pearson VUE : In the event of an unforeseen circumstance occurring on the day of a scheduled exam, candidates will be given as much advance notice as possible and will not be penalized if Pearson VUE cancels their exam appointment.

For more information on OnVUE : please visit  gov.pearsonvue.com/fsot/onvue

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible, the U.S. Department of State requires that each candidate be:

• A U.S. citizen on the date the candidate submits the registration package
• At least 20 years old and no older than 59 years of age on the day the candidate submits the registration
• At least 21 years old and not yet 60 on the day the candidate is appointed as a Foreign Service Officer
• Open to acceptance of assignments based on the needs of the service

Registering for the FSOT

Candidates complete both registration steps - submitting an application and selecting a seat - during the same five-week period immediately prior to a specific testing window. Applications are valid only for that test and will expire when that testing window closes. The registration period closes three days prior to the opening of the testing window.

If you have a documented need for an accommodation, you must  request and receive approval  for your accommodation before scheduling your test.

Once an application for a test window is submitted it cannot be changed, and candidates may test only once in a 12-month period.  Click here for answers to General FSOT FAQs .

Upcoming Foreign Service Officer Testing Windows

This chart contains relevant dates for upcoming Foreign Service Officer Test. As a reminder you will be able to register – apply and select a seat – for approximately five weeks before each testing window (dates subject to change).

October 2024

February 2025

*The FSOT is offered at both domestic and overseas locations.

As a part of the registration process, all candidates will be asked to complete their Personal Narratives (PNs). Candidates will be asked to address the following six areas: Leadership Skills, Interpersonal Skills, Communication Skills, Management Skills, Intellectual Skills, and Substantive Knowledge. Each of the six PNs will consist of no more than 1,300 characters. Beginning with the June 2022 FSOT, all candidates who complete the FSOT will proceed to the qualifications and evaluation panel for review.

Pearson VUE On Base Test Centers (OBTC) to Offer the FSOT

The Foreign Service Officer Test is offered at approximately 130 OBTC locations on U.S. military installations in U.S states and territories, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. The OBTCs will add additional appointment options during each testing window for those candidates with access to the included military bases.

Click here to learn more about on base testing at Pearson VUE »

Use of Overseas Pearson VUE Testing sites

The Board of Examiners has expanded the number of Pearson VUE testing sites for the FSOT both domestically and overseas. Embassies/Consulates located in other cities may continue to offer the test as their resources permit. Candidates testing in locations outside the U.S. must use their U.S. passports for identification verification.

Please click on  find a testing center  to find the closest site available.

Plagiarism & AI Policy

• The Department of State prohibits candidates from plagiarizing any portion of their employment application materials to include responses to questions in which candidates must provide a narrative response.  Candidates must create their own responses originally and not copy or adapt them from other sources. The Department analyzes candidate submissions for plagiarism and will discontinue any individual’s candidacy if found to have violated this plagiarism policy. 
• While the Department of State encourages candidates to create their narratives with great care, including correct use of grammar and style, candidates are prohibited from using any artificial intelligence (AI) tool, to include but not limited to ChatGPT, to aid in their written responses.  The Department will discontinue any individual’s candidacy if found to have violated this prohibition on use of AI tools in the application process.

Find more information on a rewarding career in the  Foreign Service . If you have specific questions about the Foreign Service Officer Test you may send them to  [email protected] .

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 120 minutes per response, including time required for searching existing data sources, gathering the necessary documentation, providing the information and/or documents required, and reviewing the final collection. You do not have to supply this information unless this collection displays a currently valid OMB control number. If you have comments on the accuracy of this burden estimate and/or recommendations for reducing it, please send them to: HR/REE, SA-1, H-518. 2401 E Street NW, Washington, DC, 20522.

OMB Approval Number: 1405-0008 Expiration Date: 3/31/2021

AUTHORITIES: The information is sought pursuant to 301(b) of the Foreign Service Act of 1980, as amended (22 U.S.C. § 3941(b)).

PURPOSE: The information solicited on this form will be used to determine eligibility to take the Foreign Service Officer Test, to register for the Foreign Service Officer Test, to assess qualifications for selection as a Foreign Service Officer, and to ensure the integrity of the examination process.

ROUTINE USES: The information solicited on this form may be made available to prepare statistical reports and analyses at the Department of State. Such reports and analyses, which are prepared in such a way that they are not individually identifiable, may be shared outside the Department. This information may also be shared with other federal agencies in response to request for information about hiring or retention of an employee or to Members of Congress in response to an inquiry on behalf of the applicant. More information on the Routine Uses for the system can be found in the System of Records Notice State-31, Human Resource Records.

DISCLOSURE: Providing this information is voluntary. Failure to provide the information requested on this form may result in the user’s inability to submit appropriate responses to the FSOT questionnaire and/or the FSOT and oral exam.

Related links

• U.S. Department of State Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) website
• Non-Disclosure/Conduct Policy Statement (PDF)
• What to expect in a Pearson VUE test center
• Online Practice FSOT

Office hours

Telephone numbers.

• 866-389-8339 (toll-free)
• +1-201-366-9530 (toll)

How To Tackle The Weirdest Supplemental Essay Prompts For This Application Cycle

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Writing the college essay

How do you write a letter to a friend that shows you’re a good candidate for the University of Pennsylvania? What reading list will help the Columbia University admissions committee understand your interdisciplinary interests? How can you convey your desire to attend Yale by inventing a course description for a topic you’re interested in studying?

These are the challenges students must overcome when writing their supplemental essays . Supplemental essays are a critical component of college applications—like the personal statement, they provide students with the opportunity to showcase their authentic voice and perspective beyond the quantitative elements of their applications. However, unlike the personal essay, supplemental essays allow colleges to read students’ responses to targeted prompts and evaluate their candidacy for their specific institution. For this reason, supplemental essay prompts are often abstract, requiring students to get creative, read between the lines, and ditch the traditional essay-writing format when crafting their responses.

While many schools simply want to know “why do you want to attend our school?” others break the mold, inviting students to think outside of the box and answer prompts that are original, head-scratching, or downright weird. This year, the following five colleges pushed students to get creative—if you’re struggling to rise to the challenge, here are some tips for tackling their unique prompts:

University of Chicago

Prompt: We’re all familiar with green-eyed envy or feeling blue, but what about being “caught purple-handed”? Or “tickled orange”? Give an old color-infused expression a new hue and tell us what it represents. – Inspired by Ramsey Bottorff, Class of 2026

What Makes it Unique: No discussion of unique supplemental essay prompts would be complete without mentioning the University of Chicago, a school notorious for its puzzling and original prompts (perhaps the most well-known of these has been the recurring prompt “Find x”). This prompt challenges you to invent a new color-based expression, encouraging both linguistic creativity and a deep dive into the emotional or cultural connotations of color. It’s a prompt that allows you to play with language, think abstractly, and show off your ability to forge connections between concepts that aren’t typically linked—all qualities that likewise demonstrate your preparedness for UChicago’s unique academic environment.

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How to Answer it: While it may be easy to get distracted by the open-ended nature of the prompt, remember that both the substance and structure of your response should give some insight into your personality, perspective, and characteristics. With this in mind, begin by considering the emotions, experiences, or ideas that most resonate with you. Then, use your imagination to consider how a specific color could represent that feeling or concept. Remember that the prompt is ultimately an opportunity to showcase your creativity and original way of looking at the world, so your explanation does not need to be unnecessarily deep or complex—if you have a playful personality, convey your playfulness in your response; if you are known for your sarcasm, consider how you can weave in your biting wit; if you are an amateur poet, consider how you might take inspiration from poetry as you write, or offer a response in the form of a poem.

The goal is to take a familiar concept and turn it into something new and meaningful through a creative lens. Use this essay to showcase your ability to think inventively and to draw surprising connections between language and life.

Harvard University

Prompt: Top 3 things your roommates might like to know about you.

What Makes it Unique: This prompt is unique in both form and substance—first, you only have 150 words to write about all 3 things. Consider using a form other than a traditional essay or short answer response, such as a bullet list or short letter. Additionally, note that the things your roommate might like to learn about you do not necessarily overlap with the things you would traditionally share with an admissions committee. The aim of the prompt is to get to know your quirks and foibles—who are you as a person and a friend? What distinguishes you outside of academics and accolades?

How to Answer it: First and foremost, feel free to get creative with your response to this prompt. While you are producing a supplemental essay and thus a professional piece of writing, the prompt invites you to share more personal qualities, and you should aim to demonstrate your unique characteristics in your own voice. Consider things such as: How would your friends describe you? What funny stories do your parents and siblings share that encapsulate your personality? Or, consider what someone might want to know about living with you: do you snore? Do you have a collection of vintage posters? Are you particularly fastidious? While these may seem like trivial things to mention, the true creativity is in how you connect these qualities to deeper truths about yourself—perhaps your sleepwalking is consistent with your reputation for being the first to raise your hand in class or speak up about a cause you’re passionate about. Perhaps your living conditions are a metaphor for how your brain works—though it looks like a mess to everyone else, you have a place for everything and know exactly where to find it. Whatever qualities you choose, embrace the opportunity to think outside of the box and showcase something that admissions officers won’t learn about anywhere else on your application.

University of Pennsylvania

Prompt: Write a short thank-you note to someone you have not yet thanked and would like to acknowledge.

What Makes it Unique: Breaking from the traditional essay format, this supplement invites you to write directly to a third party in the form of a 150-200 word long letter. The challenge in answering this distinct prompt is to remember that your letter should say as much about you, your unique qualities and what you value as it does about the recipient—all while not seeming overly boastful or contrived.

How to Answer it: As you select a recipient, consider the relationships that have been most formative in your high school experience—writing to someone who has played a large part in your story will allow the admissions committee some insight into your development and the meaningful relationships that guided you on your journey. Once you’ve identified the person, craft a thank-you note that is specific and heartfelt—unlike other essays, this prompt invites you to be sentimental and emotional, as long as doing so would authentically convey your feelings of gratitude. Describe the impact they’ve had on you, what you’ve learned from them, and how their influence has shaped your path. For example, if you’re thanking a teacher, don’t just say they helped you become a better student—explain how their encouragement gave you the confidence to pursue your passions. Keep the tone sincere and personal, avoid clichés and focus on the unique role this person has played in your life.

University of Notre Dame

Prompt: What compliment are you most proud of receiving, and why does it mean so much to you?

What Makes it Unique: This prompt is unique in that it invites students to share something about themselves by reflecting on someone else’s words in 50-100 words.

How to Answer it: The key to answering this prompt is to avoid focusing too much on the complement itself and instead focus on your response to receiving it and why it was so important to you. Note that this prompt is not an opportunity to brag about your achievements, but instead to showcase what truly matters to you. Select a compliment that truly speaks to who you are and what you value. It could be related to your character, work ethic, kindness, creativity, or any other quality that you hold in high regard. The compliment doesn’t have to be grand or come from someone with authority—it could be something small but significant that left a lasting impression on you, or it could have particular meaning for you because it came from someone you didn’t expect it to come from. Be brief in setting the stage and explaining the context of the compliment—what is most important is your reflection on its significance and how it shaped your understanding of yourself.

Stanford University

Prompt: List five things that are important to you.

What Makes it Unique: This prompt’s simplicity is what makes it so challenging. Stanford asks for a list, not an essay, which means you have very limited space (50 words) to convey something meaningful about yourself. Additionally, the prompt does not specify what these “things” must be—they could be a physical item, an idea, a concept, or even a pastime. Whatever you choose, these five items should add depth to your identity, values, and priorities.

How to Answer it: Start by brainstorming what matters most to you—these could be values, activities, people, places, or even abstract concepts. The key is to choose items or concepts that, when considered together, provide a comprehensive snapshot of who you are. For example, you might select something tangible and specific such as “an antique telescope gifted by my grandfather” alongside something conceptual such as “the willingness to admit when you’re wrong.” The beauty of this prompt is that it doesn’t require complex sentences or elaborate explanations—just a clear and honest reflection of what you hold dear. Be thoughtful in your selections, and use this prompt to showcase your creativity and core values.

While the supplemental essays should convey something meaningful about you, your values, and your unique qualifications for the university to which you are applying, the best essays are those that are playful, original, and unexpected. By starting early and taking the time to draft and revise their ideas, students can showcase their authentic personalities and distinguish themselves from other applicants through their supplemental essays.

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Use ProCon.org to help you on the FSOT essay

Looking for help to improve your score on the FSOT essay? ProCon.org may be what you need.

It’s almost May, and with it, there is always an air of anticipation. Spring is in full swing with summer around the corner, the school season is coming to an end, and that means students are taking final examinations and looking forward to fun travels, and the window to apply for the June FSOT is here.

If you didn’t know, and you want to apply for the June FSOT, then head on over to Pearson and sign-up right away. Remember space is always limited at the testing centers, and it is a first come first serve kind of deal.

If you are like me, then you are always on the lookout for any resource that could help you to pass the FSOT. Either videos, reading material, online courses, practice tests, or other. There is a lot of information out there, and if you are not careful, then it can be overwhelming. However, whenever I find something that I think stands out from the pack, I like to provide it to you.

Examples in the past include listening to podcasts (like NPR), watching online videos by Crash Course , and practicing for the test on FSO Compass .

In continuing with the sharing, I’d like to introduce you to ProCon.org .

Pros and cons to controversial issues

First, thanks and a shoutout to u/formereconfso for posting the link to Reddit, which is how I discovered the site.

So what is ProCon.org?

ProCon is doing what many bodies of information are unable to be, nonpartisan, straightforward, and a source to inspire critical thinking. This is indeed a breath of fresh air.

Here is their mission statement:

Promoting critical thinking, education, and informed citizenship by presenting controversial issues in a straightforward, nonpartisan, primarily pro-con format.

To maintain their mission statement, they stick to the following core operating principals:

Maintain strict nonpartisanship Keep our presentations understandable and direct Ensure ease of navigation and accessibility Be totally transparent about our methodology and organization Under-promise, over-deliver

After some introductory digging, they are doing a great job.

For each issue, they provide background information, the leading arguments for and against the issue, additional statements or metrics on the subject, quotes, reader comments, and more.

This is awesome material!

Let’s use an example to help visualize how ProCon works, with the following question (source linked):

“Should more gun control laws be enacted?”

Here are the background information and the top three pro and con argument statements to the question.

The United States has 120.5 guns per 100 people, or about 393,347,000 guns, which is the highest total and per capita number in the world. 22% of Americans own one or more guns (35% of men and 12% of women). America’s pervasive gun culture stems in part from its colonial history, revolutionary roots, frontier expansion, and the Second Amendment, which states: “A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”

Proponents of more gun control laws state that the Second Amendment was intended for militias; that gun violence would be reduced; that gun restrictions have always existed; and that a majority of Americans, including gun owners, support new gun restrictions.

Opponents say that the Second Amendment protects an individual’s right to own guns; that guns are needed for self-defense from threats ranging from local criminals to foreign invaders; and that gun ownership deters crime rather than causes more crime.

• The Second Amendment is not an unlimited right to own guns.
• More gun control laws would reduce gun deaths.
• High-capacity magazines should be banned because they too often turn murder into mass murder.
• The Second Amendment of the US Constitution protects individual gun ownership.
• Gun control laws do not deter crime; gun ownership deters crime.
• Gun control laws infringe upon the right to self-defense and deny people a sense of safety.

Two important notes.

First, there are 15 pro and con arguments presented on the site for this question, and I am only listing the top three.

Second, each argument comes with a reason for the statement. These reasons are not written above, because they can be rather long. Instead, I very much encourage you to go and read them.

How ProCon can help you on the FSOT essay

The assessors of the FSOT essay section are looking for two skills in your essay submission.

• Are you a good English language writer?
• Are you good at putting together a well-constructed argument?

The reason for the first one is apparent… you will write a lot as an Officer in the Foreign Service, they need to know you can do this before moving forward.

As for the second one, there is one crucial thing you need to remember. The essay does not grade on the argument that you write. The BEX want to see that you can write a well-constructed argument. This is critical! Do not write an argument that you think they want to read. Write what you believe in, it will be much stronger.

I’ve written before about the essay format, so I am not going to dig deep here. However, the basics to how I think a robust FSOT essay looks like, and how I have found success, is to do the following:

• Write a five paragraph essay,
• Have a clearly defined thesis statement,
• Two statements in favor of your argument,
• One counter statement (i.e., opponents to my argument think this, but here is why they are wrong)

So, if you are asked the question on gun control, then it should be easy enough to see how to insert the above statements into your FSOT essay.

Intro: there should be more/less gun control laws p1: pro/con two from above p2: pro/con three from above p3: people who would argue against me would state pro/con one, but they are wrong because of the pro/con one conclusion: as such, there should be more/less gun control laws because of 1, 2, and 3.

The above is your outline with your main statements. For each paragraph add 2-3 more sentences that support your explanation. For guidance, use the supporting arguments to each statement listed on the ProCon.org pages.

Taking it to the next level

If you do the above, you will be well on your way to finding success on the FSOT essay.

However, to do well, you need to practice the above. To do that, I highly suggest using the FSOT essay simulator on FSO Compass .

It helps to mimic the FSOT essay with random prompts, timers, character limit, and more. Practicing for questions you know are coming is helpful, but the problem is that you know they are coming. The essay simulator helps you improve by not knowing what the prompt is ahead of receiving it, just like the real FSOT test.

A final note

ProCon.org is a great resource, and I hope you find it of use.

I do want to provide a cautionary note though, and that is not to get lost in all the information provided. Remember that the FSOT is about the breadth and not the depth of a topic. Know a few primary arguments for some of the main themes of discussion right now, but leave it at that. You have a minimal amount of time on the FSOT essay section. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed.

As always take the principle of K.I.S.S.: keep it simple stupid.

I look forward to your thoughts on this resource!

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