Q: How hard is it to become a diplomat?

It is very hard to become a diplomat. Diplomats typically need lots of education and exceptional analytical, organizational, and leadership skills. They also must have the ability to communicate clearly and effectively in both written and oral contexts.

Q: How hard is it to become a foreign service officer?

It is difficult to become a foreign service officer. The number of annual applicants far outnumbers the positions available, and the qualifying test is very challenging. Approximately 15,000 to 20,000 people apply each year to become a foreign service officers. There are typically only a handful of openings in a given year. As a result, the selection process can take upwards of 1.5 years.

Question 1

How hard is it to become a diplomat?

Accepted Answer

It is very hard to become a diplomat. Diplomats typically need lots of education and exceptional analytical, organizational, and leadership skills. They also must have the ability to communicate clearly and effectively in both written and oral contexts.

Question 2

How hard is it to become a foreign service officer?

Accepted Answer

It is difficult to become a foreign service officer. The number of annual applicants far outnumbers the positions available, and the qualifying test is very challenging.

Approximately 15,000 to 20,000 people apply each year to become a foreign service officers. There are typically only a handful of openings in a given year. As a result, the selection process can take upwards of 1.5 years.

Question 3

What should I study to become a diplomat?

Accepted Answer

You should study international relations or political science to become a diplomat. Most professionals working in the field of diplomacy have a master's degree or higher in one of these fields.

Obtaining your degree in international relations will teach you how the world works. You will learn how economics, culture, and politics influence everything. You will gain an understanding of the different historical, political, and legal factors that impact global affairs.

If you choose to study political science, your focus will be on the theory and practice of political systems. Typically, political science programs will be divided into different subfields:

Comparative Politics
Political Theory
International Relations
American Government and Politics

Along with completing the applicable coursework, there are some other skills you need to develop in order to be a good diplomat. Crucial skills for a diplomat include things like leadership, communications, and analysis.

Skills	Percentages
USG	12.27%
International Organizations	11.17%
Technical Assistance	10.45%
CUI	5.68%
Law Enforcement	5.63%

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