Pathways into the Service
There is no single road into the Foreign Service. There are several well-traveled ones.
The Foreign Service Officer Test
Most officers enter through a competitive, multi-stage selection process that begins with the Foreign Service Officer Test and continues through written assessments, an oral assessment, and medical and security clearances. Candidates choose a career track at the outset.
The Charles B. Rangel International Affairs Program
Named for longtime New York Congressman Charles B. Rangel, the Rangel Program is a highly selective, State Department–funded program that prepares outstanding individuals for careers in the Foreign Service. Featured Honoree Songkane Sackaly is a participant in the program.
The Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship
Named for Career Ambassador Thomas R. Pickering, the Pickering Fellowship is a parallel State Department–funded program preparing fellows for Foreign Service careers.
Capitol Hill
Congressional and legislative affairs fellowships place Foreign Service personnel with congressional committees and offices, including the House Foreign Affairs Committee. See Diplomacy and Congress.