…it generally takes at least six years from the start of a bachelor’s degree until you could be officially hired by the CIA.

Another variable is experience: Most CIA jobs want at least at least one year of prior experience, but some require three to five years. All CIA positions require a bachelor’s degree, but some may prefer or require a master’s or doctorate degree. There are a number of factors that will affect how long it will take you to become a CIA officer. How long does it take to become a CIA officer? Also, the CIA is known to be very stringent on its anti-drug use policy. Keep in mind: The CIA specifically states not to mention you have applied to the CIA on any social media and to use discretion when discussing your application with family and friends. Job offer: If successful through each step and there’s a position you qualify for, you may be offered a job with the CIA. This portion will include polygraph testing a thorough background investigation, which involves interviewing friends, neighbors and colleagues and a physical and psychological examination. The CIA will begin working on your security and medical evaluations as part of the clearance process.Įvaluations: The security and medical evaluations are extensive and can take from six to 12 months to complete.

It can also include aptitude and personality tests.Ĭonditional employment offer: Applicants who make it through testing and interviewing will be given a conditional offer of employment. This may include in-person interviews at a secure CIA site. Screening, testing and interviews: If the CIA is interested in pursuing your application, you will take part in phone screening and testing. You may travel abroad briefly during the application and hiring process, but applicants are warned against contacting the CIA in any manner, including postal mail or email, while overseas. Online application: You must be physically within the United States or its territories when you apply. Below is a summary of the application process: Applying for the CIA is long and involved-the five-step process can take more than a year.

How to become a spy agent