Q&A for How to Become a CIA Agent

Of course, the CIA doesn't discriminate based on sex, race, religion, etc. Just work hard to make yourself a good candidate for whichever job you want, and pursue it.

The more the better. The CIA often looks for someone who speaks at least two languages (English and preferably Mandarin or Russian).

There is no one specific college that increases your chance of being hired by the CIA. However, your education level may or may not affect your chances. It really all depends on the area of the agency you wish to work for.

The CIA tends to favor those with a higher GPA. That is not to say it is unattainable, however, as they will look at multiple aspects of your suitability for different jobs.

Yes.

Do well in school. Learn as many languages as possible. Play sports and stay fit. Go to college.

You don't have to have been born in the United States to apply for the CIA, you just need to be a US citizen. Your first step would be applying for citizenship.

You must be a U.S. citizen, but your education requirements are reviewed based on university grades, program of study, level of education, and your university's reputation. Higher degrees are better. Your grades and your program of study also influence your chances. An individual who speaks Russian and Arabic, and has a bachelor's in cyber security (high need) would be prime with high marks/grades.

Many CIA officers have families, but they cannot discuss their work. They may also be gone for long periods of time and not be able to contact their families.

They prefer degrees which focus on analysis and critical thinking skills, like psychology, criminology, cyber security, biology, sociology et cetera. You have to graduate with a good grade point average and test scores, too.

You should apply for US citizenship and pursue a college degree.

If you move to the USA and you were born in a different country (outside of the USA), then you have to be a citizen. Apply for citizenship first, then read about the application process.

You have to be an American citizen, ethnicity does not matter. If you need to work in Nigeria, being Nigerian is a plus.

Yes, and the higher the degree the better your chances. Also, the CIA is involved with issues that impact national security on foreign soil so language skills are a big help. Finally, if you're studying forensics, learning cyber forensics is a good idea.

Yes, but you will first need to apply for US citizenship in order to be eligible.

Yes, and sometimes this might be seen as a benefit. But your loyalty should be with the USA first.

Yes. As mentioned, the more languages you speak, the better.

Yes, of course. Mention that when applying. If you were a marine, you would have the best chance.

You need to have finished college, and have several years of experience before being able to join the CIA. Therefore, there is no set age that you have to be, but it will likely be in your late twenties.

Most likely not, as only maybe 10 percent of the CIA force are field agents. However, if you are physically strong, served in the military and have strong interpersonal and foreign language skills, then you have a farily good chance.

The pay depends on what you do. The information is available on the CIA website.

You have to be 25 to work for the CIA. You can apply at 21, however, and have training to gain experience until you are 25.

No, you cannot be a CIA agent as a minor.

You are eligible to become a CIA agent when you are 21 years old.

You would need to apply for US citizenship first. Then you could start applying.

You cannot, as a general rule, become a member of any major federal organization (CIA, FBI, Homeland, Secret Service, etc) if you are not a US citizen.

Absolutely! That kind of experience will almost guarantee your acceptance in the CIA.

You will have to live in the US for a while first if you haven't yet, and satisfy a number of requirements. See How to Become a US Citizen .

No, you cannot.

Of course, the CIA doesn't discriminate based on sex, race, religion, etc. Just work hard to make yourself a good candidate for whichever job you want, and pursue it.