Eight (8) Steps to Becoming a Language-Designated Consular Fellow

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility to Apply

To be eligible to apply for a language-designated Consular Fellow
position, you must:

  • Be a U.S. citizen and able to obtain authorization to work in country or countries of assignment. (note: Candidates with dual nationality are ineligible for assignment within their country of dual nationality. Recruitment for Portuguese and Chinese languages is targeted for service in Brazil and China and dual national candidates are unable to meet this qualification).
  • Be able to obtain a Top-Secret Security Clearance.
  • Be able to obtain a Foreign Service Medical Clearance.
  • Be able to obtain a favorable Suitability Review Panel determination.
  • Be at least 20 years old at the time of application; at least 21 years old at the time of appointment.
  • E-Verify:  Verification of employment eligibility in the United States is required.
  • Must speak and read an eligible foreign language at the required proficiency level (eligible languages are  Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, Portuguese, and Spanish).

Step 2: Submit Your Application

Now that you have confirmed your eligibility to apply, the next step is to complete the online application.

Complete the online application and register for the Consular Fellows Program Test (CFPT).

Requesting Reasonable Accommodations

Step 3: Take the CFPT

Choose a test date and Pearson test location that is convenient for you to take the CFPT. You will receive your score the same day you test.

Step 4: Written Exercise

If your CFPT score qualifies, you will receive information from Pearson about completing a Written Exercise.

Step 5: Take the Language Test

The most competitive candidates will be invited to take a language proficiency test with the National Foreign Affairs Training Center to confirm you have the required language skills.

Step 6: Take the Foreign Service Consular Fellow Assessment

Candidates who meet the required language proficiency will be invited to participate in the Foreign Service Consular Professional Assessment (FSCPA) . The FSCPA includes a structured interview to determine whether candidates demonstrate the competencies essential to successful performance as a Consular Fellow.

Step 7: Clearances

All passing candidates must receive medical, security and suitability clearances in order to be hired and serve abroad. For those who passed the Foreign Service Consular Professional Assessment (FSCPA) and received a conditional offer, you will receive the Consular Professionals Candidate Guide.

Step 8: Register of Cleared Candidates

Candidates who received a conditional offer of employment will be placed on a register of cleared candidates based on the language designated during the initial application process.