How to become a CIA Agent

How to become a CIA Agent

The CIA is just about as close to the top rung of the ladder when it comes to government work.  The CIA’s purpose is to monitor the activities of other countries and counter any potential threats to the US through it clandestine service agents.  As a clandestine service agent, you will be sent all over the world and be responsible for collecting vital information for different CIA operations.  It is expected that you find recruit and train foreign individuals to collect information the CIA needs.  Expect to spend about half your career oversees and be prepared to spend months and possibly years on assignment. Becoming an agent is a very intriguing and dangerous career that has one of the most lengthy and interrogative processes for hiring new applicants.  If you are going to apply, keep those facts in mind.  After all, if you are to become a spy working for the United States of America, the CIA wants to make sure you are on our side and an intelligent, strong willed person that fits the mold for such a highly secretive and prestigious position. 

• The CIA will perform a very, very thorough background check.  Generally speaking, you must have been a model citizen for most of your life.
• Avoid using any illegal drugs and drink mildly
• Obtain, at the very least, a Bachelors degree with emphasis in any of the following areas: International relations, Economics, Behavioral Science. You can further your education by conveniently attending one of these top accredited universities online:
• While in school, take challenging courses and do well.  Your GPA should range between 3.0 and 4.0.
• Develop Language proficiency in 1 or 2 languages.  Middle Eastern languages are quite valuable.
• Search the employment database at the CIA’s website.
• Apply and make sure all the requirements are met.
• Wait.  A general rule of thumb is to wait around 45 days for the CIA to contact you with a conditional offer
• Undergo a medical exam, a psychological exam and a polygraph test. This will asses your intelligence and mental stability.
• Wait for your background check to be completed. (it can take up to 2 years!)
• If interested the CIA will offer a conditional employment offer and expect to live in Washington for 2 years working in the CIA’s professional trainee program.
• Maintain high standards and work ethic and you will maybe be accepted into the CST program (clandestine service trainee).
• After completing the CST program, you now have the option of being sent oversees on assignment and have official become a CIA agent!

Select a CIA Agent Training Program