What Is Diplomacy?
What Is Foreign Service?
How To Become A Foreign Service Officer
The Foreign Service Exams: New World of Opportunity
The U.S. Foreign Service Written Examinations: Q&A

Becoming a diplomat presents a world of opportunities. But it isn't the right job for everyone. While some people might find the job challenging, exciting and rewarding, others will see it as a less-than-perfect match.

If you want to become an Ambassador, the first step (traditionally) is to join the United States Foreign Service. In order to enter the foreign service, an individual must have a good, well-rounded education. He/She must pass the oral and written sections of the foreign service exam, administered by the US Department of State. Applicants must be between the ages of 20 and 59 to take the exam. The next foreign service exam will be given in April 2003. Registration will begin in January 2003.

Many US Ambassadors today did not take the traditional way. Most of them are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate even if they have not served the US Foreign Service.

Ambassadors and key diplomats from foreign countries are also appointed by their Prime Ministers, Presidents, or Ministers of Foreign Affairs. Foreign Service Officers and members of diplomatic missions usually undergo specific application procedures similar to our Foreign Service in the United States.

Ambassadorial appointments are usually accorded to individuals who are well-connected to the government and who have shown excellent achievements in their chosen career. Most of the appointed ambassadors today are successful business executives, lawyers, foreign affairs experts, analysts, and professors.

In many cases, foreign service officers do get appointed to become ambassadors as well. If you want to become a Foreign Service Officer, you need to be knowledgeable of the following courses: US government, world history, management and economics, English, US cultural affairs and current international affairs. Knowledge of one or more foreign languages, study abroad and active involvement in extracurricular activities are also important.