No items in cart
Exam Date: August 17, 2025
The Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) is the first step toward becoming a U.S. Foreign Service Officer (FSO) — a diplomat who represents the United States abroad. It is administered by the U.S. Department of State. The FSOT is a standardized exam required for candidates who want to become Foreign Service Officers.
It assesses knowledge, skills, and abilities that are critical for success in foreign service roles.
Before registering, you must choose one of five career tracks:
1. Political Affairs – Political analysis, policy negotiations
2. Economic Affairs – Trade, finance, environmental issues
3. Public Diplomacy – Media relations, cultural programs
4. Consular Affairs – Visas, adoptions, citizen services
5. Management Affairs – Embassy operations and logistics
Your selected track affects your career, but not your FSOT content.
FSOT Test Structure
The FSOT consists of four sections, all computer-based:
1. Job Knowledge Test
Time: 40 minutes
Questions: 60 multiple choice
Topics:
• U.S. Government & History
• World Affairs & Geography
• Economics
• Communications
• Management Principles
• U.S. and international politics
• Technology
2. Situational Judgment Test (SJT)
• Time: 20–30 minutes
• Questions: 28
• Focus: How you would respond to real workplace scenarios
• Tests judgment, professionalism, ethics, diplomacy
3. English Expression and Usage
Time: 50 minutes
Questions: 65
Content:
• Grammar, punctuation, style
• Word usage
• Reading comprehension
• Logic and clarity in communication
4. Written Essay
Time: 30 minutes
Task: Write one persuasive essay (usually on a general or policy-related topic)
Evaluated on:
• Structure
• Clarity
• Grammar and punctuation
• Argument quality
Registration Process
• Create an account on the Department of State’s application portal
• Choose a career track
• Submit the FSOT registration
• Book a test date at a Pearson VUE testing center (worldwide)
• Take the test
SYLLABUS:
1. Content Areas:
o U.S. Government & Political Systems
o U.S. History & Culture
o World History & Geography
o Economics
o Mathematics & Statistics
o Management & Leadership
o Communication & Media
o Science & Technology
o Current Events
2. English Expression (20%)
• Skills Tested:
o Grammar
o Vocabulary
o Sentence Structure
o Reading Comprehension
3. Situational Judgment (20%)
• Scenarios:
o Workplace dilemmas
o Ethical decision-making
o Interpersonal interactions
4. Written Essay (20%)
• Requirements:
o Timed essay on a current event or policy issue
o Demonstrates clarity, coherence, and analytical thinking
1. Study Materials:
Official Resources:
• FSOT Practice Test
• Suggested Reading List
Third-Party Resources:
• FSO Compass
• Mometrix FSOT Test Prep
2. Study Plan:
Job Knowledge:
• Dedicate time to each content area
• Use flashcards and quizzes for active recall
English Expression:
• Practice grammar exercises
• Read diverse materials to enhance vocabulary
Situational Judgment:
• Review sample scenarios
• Discuss ethical dilemmas with peers
Written Essay:
• Practice writing essays on current topics
• Focus on clarity, structure, and argumentation
3. Mock Tests:
Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions
Analyze performance to identify areas for improvement
The FSOT is administered three times a year:
June 2025: Testing Window: May 31 – June 7, 2025
Registration Opens: April 15, 2025
Registration Closes: May 29, 2025
October 2025: Testing Window: October 4 – October 11, 2025
Registration Opens: August 19, 2025
Registration Closes: October 2, 2025
February 2026: Testing Window: January 31 – February 7, 2026
Registration Opens: December 15, 2025
Registration Closes: January 29, 2026
The FSOT is offered three times per year: February, June, and October.
There is a $5 sitting fee, which is refunded after the test. A $72 no-show fee applies if you miss the test without proper cancellation.
Yes, you can retake the FSOT; however, you must wait 12 months between each attempt.
