How To Become A Spy?

From what we have seen in movies, the job of a spy certainly seems quite fascinating. Not all of it may be true, but being able to access secret data and work on secret assignments does seem like a thrilling job. It sounds better than a routine 9 to 5 job. If you want to become a spy with international exposure, you will have to look for a job at CIA (Central Intelligence Agency). Here’s what you will need to become a CIA agent.

Basic eligibility – You need to be a US citizen and minimum 18 years of age. Applications for CIA agent are to be filed online only. You should be willing to shift to Washington, DC area, as CIA has all jobs at that location. You should also be willing to travel to overseas locations.

Get a bachelor’s degree – For becoming a CIA agent, you need to have a bachelor’s degree. It could work as an advantage if you have received education in criminal justice, law enforcement, and other related fields. In most cases, you will need to have GPA of 3 or more to qualify for a job at CIA.

Learn multiple languages – You can boost your chances of getting a job at CIA by learning one or more foreign languages. For example, languages like Korean, Russian and Arabic can help you get overseas assignments.

Experience counts – You can benefit if you have prior experience in law enforcement, security or military services. If you don’t have such experience, you can join CIA’s internship programs. The internship will allow you to better understand the type of work at CIA and if it’s the kind of job you want to do.

Tests for joining CIA – You will have to pass a number of tests to become a CIA agent. A thorough background check will be conducted to assess your trustworthiness, character and loyalty to United States. You will also be put through a polygraph interview. Next, your physical and mental faculties will be tested to ensure that you are fit for the role of CIA agent.

Reasons for disqualification – CIA ensures that only the best gain entry into the organization. You will be watched and evaluated at every step. Any form of dishonesty can get you disqualified. Other things that can lead to disqualification include use of illegal drugs, abuse of prescription drugs, unethical or criminal behavior, and lack of responsiveness.

CIA offers a wide range of job opportunities including desk jobs and field jobs. At CIA, you could be gathering and analyzing data, examining satellite images, deciphering coded messages, making reports, researching on people and organizations, and communicating with other enforcement agencies. If you like field jobs, you could be deployed in international locations for secret missions. Based on your interest, you can choose to progress in a particular job at CIA.