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FBI Interview Questions and Answers

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Practice for your upcoming FBI job interview by using our mock interview. Click 'First Question' below to get started.

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40 FBI Interview Questions

10 Interview Questions With Sample Answers

1.   Tell me about an achievement you are proud of. What skills did you use to achieve this goal?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

The FBI wants to hire people who set goals and work hard to achieve them. The interviewer would like to know that you can set goals and reach them, which shows your determination and focus. Give an example of a time you overcame obstacles to complete a career-related goal that seemed impossible, or share a time you received an award and talk about the most challenging parts of earning that recognition.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Focus Your Answer On

Focus your answer on a work-related achievement rather than a personal achievement since the interviewer is more interested in hearing about a professional achievement than a personal one. Highlighting a professional achievement will allow the interviewer to determine if you are a strong candidate for the job. Even though personal achievements are to be commended, many candidates are vying for this position, and you want to stand out from the crowd.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

What to Avoid

As mentioned in the other answer advice, you should avoid describing a personal achievement over a professional one. The interviewer may find it interesting that you won the National Spelling Bee three years in a row, but they may not feel that your personal achievement will benefit you as a Special Agent.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Remember To

When responding to this question, highlight your top professional achievement and the skills you used to achieve your goal. This question has two parts, and you must remember to answer the question completely.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

1st Entry Level Example

"I'd say my greatest accomplishment so far is completing my undergrad, and having attained my PhD. I graduated with honors, which another huge accomplishment, as is the accomplishment of sitting here with you today interviewing for this internship opportunity."

Written by Kevin Downey on December 18th, 2022

1st Experienced Example

"Last year, I earned the Denver Police Medal of Honor for my actions while stopping a bank robbery. I was surprised by this honor and also humbled. I believe that my bravery was part of what earned me the reward, but also my ability to react quickly under pressure."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

2nd Experienced Example

"I'm proud of the fact that I was promoted the fastest in my police departments' 50-year history. When I took the position, I set the goal for promotion within twelve months. I achieved that within six months by using my organizational, interpersonal, and leadership skills. As you can see, I set lofty goals for myself and am sure to create milestones and check-ins with my superiors to ensure I'm doing what I need to reach these goals."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

2.   This concludes our interview. Do you have any questions for the panel?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

At the end of an interview, the interviewer will generally ask if you have any questions for the panel to ensure all your questions are answered about the job role or the organization. It is best to ask a question or two to show the interviewer you are eager to learn all you can. Some good questions to ask are ones that cannot be answered when researching the bureau or on the job announcement. For example, you could ask what part of the job the interviewer finds the most exciting, when the next FBI Academy starts, or when you will find out the results of your interview.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Focus Your Answer On

Focus on questions you have after conducting thorough research on the FBI and the position you would fill. You may ask the interviewer what they like the most and least about the FBI, how many agents they will be hiring, or when the next FBI Academy will start.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

What to Avoid

Keep your questions focused on the role or the bureau. You want to avoid asking questions about salary, overtime pay, sick leave, or the benefits package. When you ask about money or benefits, the interviewer questions your intentions for wanting to work as a Special Agent for the FBI.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Remember To

After you have asked a question or two, you want to remember to thank each member of the panel for their time. When thanking them, shake each member's hand while looking them in the eye and addressing them by name (if that is known.) Thanking each member shows respect and will make you stand out from other candidates who did not do the same. For the purpose of the answer examples, we will thank the panel before asking the questions.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Entry Level Example

"Yes, I do have two questions, and thank you for asking and for taking the time to interview me. How long have you worked for the FBI, and what is your favorite part about working here?"

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Experienced Example

"Based on my qualifications and interview performance, what can you tell me of what the next steps will look like? How large is the pool you are interviewing with? When will I find out the results of this interview, and by what mode, and for context, when does the next academy start?"

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

3.   With the ongoing changes in law enforcement, how do you keep your knowledge current?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

The FBI will expect you to always keep up to date on changes in law enforcement, and today's technology makes this reasonably easy! List several ways that you receive your industry knowledge and trending topics. Tell the interviewer about those daily update emails you receive from law enforcement organizations, conferences you attend, seminars you have taken, and professional organizations you belong to.

In case you didn't know, the FBI currently has four podcasts:

- FBI This Week
- Wanted By The FBI
- Inside the FBI
- FBI Gotcha

Bonus points if you mention that you listen to these! Lastly, it's a great idea to ask the interviewer what resources they refer to for industry trends. That question can start up a great conversation, and you may learn a thing or two as well.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Focus Your Answer On

Focus your answer on information the FBI puts out, such as its podcasts or YouTube channel. When you keep your knowledge current by following the FBI, it shows your interest in and dedication to the bureau. You can include other ways you stay current, such as online blogs or law enforcement magazines, but be sure to include information from the FBI.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

What to Avoid

Avoid saying that you do not keep your knowledge of changes in law enforcement current. Technology is constantly evolving, and it is your responsibility to stay on top of the trends. Besides the FBI podcasts and YouTube channels, there are many online resources that you could follow, such as blogs, websites, and news sources. It is easier than ever to stay current on changes and trends in law enforcement.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Remember To

To make you stand out to the interviewer, remember to mention podcasts you follow that the FBI puts out. Showing the interviewer that you value the information you receive from the FBI shows you have done your research and are learning all you can about the FBI and how they operate.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Entry Level Example

"It's a dream of mine to join the FBI, and I am pleased to say that I am a regular listener to all four of the FBI blogs. I also follow many accounts on Twitter associated with law enforcement news. If you have any recommendations for me, I am open to suggestions."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Experienced Example

"Every morning, I listen to the FBI podcast, 'Gotcha' because I find it incredibly valuable to listen to stories of how the FBI has succeeded in catching a criminal. I value the information shared among fellow agents. In addition to this podcast, I also subscribe to a couple of industry blogs. One is FBI Retired, and the other is LawBlog. What resources do you prefer to stay on top of industry trends and changes?"

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

4.   How will you handle the inevitable stress and pressure that comes with working for the FBI?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

The FBI releases a report every year that directly addresses the toll that violence, physical, and psychological events have on their enforcement officers. This trauma is so real that the FBI has begun to implement post-trauma treatment programs for their officers who need to cope with the circumstances they have faced on the job. The interviewer wants to make sure you understand the stress that comes with the job and have a plan for handling this stress.

Before your interview, ensure that you have read the most recent report and be ready to address how you plan to remain ahead of the inevitable stress that comes with working for the FBI. Some coping mechanisms recommended by current and former agents include:

- Training themselves to reinterpret negative events and turn them into positive solutions
- Remaining physically fit and committing to personal health initiatives
- Looking at more seasoned FBI agents as mentors and role models
-Talking about events and stories that are bothering them, rather than dwelling on them or bottling them up

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Focus Your Answer On

Focus on coping mechanisms mentioned in the FBI report and intertwine them into your response. Describe how you handled the pressure of the previous work you have done, but using some coping mechanisms mentioned in the report shows the interviewer you have done your homework and will utilize their suggestions.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

What to Avoid

Avoid describing coping mechanisms that the interviewer may deem unprofessional or unhealthy. For example, avoid saying you deal with stress by going to the bar at the end of your shift and drinking with your buddies or going to nightclubs to unwind. While some law enforcement officers might do activities like these to unwind, which is perfectly fine, the interviewer does not want to hear of coping mechanisms like these in an interview.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Remember To

If you want the interviewer to be sure you understand different ways to handle stress and pressure from the job, read the latest FBI report and utilize the coping mechanisms they mention in your response. You want the interviewer to feel confident in your ability to handle the stressors of the job.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Entry Level Example

"I plan to handle the stress and pressure of this job by looking to more seasoned agents and taking their advice when it comes to getting through especially tough situations. I am lucky to have a solid network of supportive family and friends who I can lean on. Also, I keep my mind clear by starting every day with a one-hour meditation and workout session."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Answer Example

"I am quite resilient to stress and believe this is because of my eight years of experience as a law enforcement officer. In times of extreme stress, I share my experience with a colleague, ask for their input on moving forward, and try to see the positive in the situation. In extreme circumstances, I am not afraid to book a therapy session to work through my thoughts."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

5.   What do you like to do in your free time?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

The interviewer asks this question to see what interests you and if you have healthy avenues to decompress. They want to hear what hobbies and activities you enjoy and know that you spend time away from work destressing from the pressure of the job.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Focus Your Answer On

Focus on describing three or four activities you enjoy. The interviewer wants to see what you are interested in and determine how well you will get along with other FBI Special Agents based on your interests.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

What to Avoid

Choose your activities and interests wisely when responding to this question. You want to avoid describing activities that the interviewer might deem unprofessional for an FBI Special Agent. While certain activities might seem harmless, think about how the interviewer might respond. For example, you might enjoy lying around playing video games all day on your days off. While that is a harmless way to decompress and take your mind off work, the interviewer might feel it is childish or a waste of time.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Remember To

Remember to choose three or four activities you enjoy doing in your free time. It is best to show that you are well-rounded and enjoy a variety of different things. The more you share, the more the interviewer will learn about your personality and see that you will be a good fit for the team if hired.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Entry Level Example

"In my free time, I enjoy activities that keep me in shape. My favorite activities are riding dirt bikes, trail running, and rock climbing. When the weather is bad, and I cannot do those activities, I enjoy working on projects around my house, cooking, and reading true-crime novels."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Answer Example

"On my days off, I enjoy coaching my son's soccer team, going for motorcycle rides with my girlfriend, and doing CrossFit to stay in shape. I also recently took up karate with my son and love the discipline it teaches. We recently received our orange belts and are working towards our black belts."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

6.   What are your top three strengths, and how will they benefit the FBI?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

The FBI reportedly receives over 10,000 Special Agent applications every year, but they hire only 500-750. The FBI picks the cream of the crop. Being the best includes having a record of excellence in your professional and personal life. Extra-curricular and volunteer work is always a stand-out factor to bring to your application, while showing a history of success and positivity is also favored. The FBI is also known for seeking out 'Type A' individuals who are characteristically ambitious, decisive, driven, and highly competitive. A great response to this question will include a balance of all these factors.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Focus Your Answer On

When you look at the FBI's website, they describe their Special Agents as driven to find solutions to all types of problems, compassionate and respectful to everyone they meet, adaptable and able to keep calm in the face of challenges, excellent communicators, and physically fit. Choose three qualities that you possess that align with the FBI's requirements so the interviewer can see that you would be a good fit for the bureau.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

What to Avoid

Since the FBI has described what they are looking for in an agent, avoid describing three strengths opposite of what they are looking for in their ideal candidate. The interviewer has the type of person they want to hire in mind, and you want to stand out as one who will be a good fit for the bureau.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Remember To

After choosing your top three strengths, remember to describe how those strengths will benefit the bureau if hired. This is a two-part question; do not forget to answer the second part of the question. If you fail to answer how your strengths will benefit the FBI, the interviewer might think you lack attention to detail.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Entry Level Example

"My greatest strengths include my tenacity, my generous nature, and my decisiveness. I have a passion for helping others, and I will provide the empathy needed to be an incredible Special Agent. At the same time, I will never give up or stop until the job is done."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Answer Example

"I recently asked my friends and family why they felt I would be successful in the FBI. They responded that my desire for justice, my competitive nature, and my ability to remain pragmatic make me a perfect choice for the FBI. For instance, I pride myself on striking a balance between helping others and having sound judgment based on facts. I will benefit the FBI by bringing criminals to justice and never backing down or giving up until the job is done."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

7.   What is your greatest weakness?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Preparing for this question requires self-awareness and strategy. You can be candid in your answer, recognizing that you aren't great at something and acknowledging your need to improve. Focus on a weakness that you could turn into a strength or share something you are taking action to improve, choosing a weakness that is not a core skill for this position. Be sure to have an action plan to improve on this weakness and mention it in your response.

Perhaps you are watching TED talks to gain skills in a particular area, reading the latest-and-greatest book on the subject, or maybe you are taking a seminar. We are all human with our weaknesses, so don't be afraid to share yours!

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Focus Your Answer On

Instead of spending a lot of time focusing on your weakness, focus on how you will turn that weakness into a strength. A positive ending will stand out to the interviewer more than focusing solely on your weakness, and it shows the interviewer that you have goals to improve yourself.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

What to Avoid

Avoid describing a weakness and not having a plan to improve. If you have no plan, the interviewer will think you lack the drive and motivation to succeed and think you are complacent and tolerate mediocrity. Those are not common traits for a Special Agent, so they will most likely pass you over for another candidate.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Remember To

Remember to choose a weakness that is not a core skill for the position and could preclude the interviewer from hiring you. For example, suppose your weakness is your temper, and the bureau wants a Special Agent who is calm, cool, and collected at all times. While you could take anger management classes and work with a therapist to address your temper, the interviewer might believe it will take a long time to correct and think you could potentially be a liability for the bureau if hired.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Entry Level Example

"I believe I could improve some of my technical skills, including Excel and PowerPoint. Currently, I am at a beginner to intermediate level; however, I would be more comfortable at an advanced level. I have enrolled myself in an evening workshop for the next six weeks. We will see how stellar my skills are after I complete that course."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Experienced Example

"I know this will come off as cliche, but it's a truthful answer to an honest question. My weakness is not effectively delegating. I know what needs doing and how I want it done, so my sense of urgency compels me to more often to do it myself, rather than take pause and thoroughly explain why the task is important as well as why it has to be done the right way. However, I recognize that this sense of urgency and my compulsion to spring into action takes more time than slowing down. In this regard, I can be my own worst enemy. I've recently recruited help from my teammates and superiors to call me out on the behavior. By correcting me at the moment, I am able to pause and move in the right direction."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

8.   Where do you see yourself in five years?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

When an interviewer asks where you see yourself in five years, they want to ensure you see yourself with the bureau and are looking to understand what professional goals you have set for yourself. Individuals who set career goals are typically more motivated and productive employees who have a passion for their work. Describe where you see yourself in five years within the FBI and what steps you will take to achieve your goals.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Focus Your Answer On

Focus your answer on professional goals rather than personal goals. The interviewer is concerned with your professional goals and wants to hear that you see yourself growing with the FBI. It costs the bureau a lot of money to interview, hire, and train their agents, and they want to make sure you are not planning on using your training to leave for another agency.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

What to Avoid

When responding to this question, avoid saying that you have not thought that far ahead. The interviewer wants to hire driven individuals who have specific goals they are working to achieve. You should also avoid saying you see yourself working for another agency other than the FBI.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Remember To

Remember to have your five-year path planned. Describe exactly where you see yourself on that path and how you will achieve your goals. For example, suppose you want to work as a Supervisory Special Agent in the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU). When you do your research, you will see that you need to work as a Nonsupervisory Agent for seven to 15 years before applying to serve in the BAU. So, you would describe to the interviewer your long-term goals and how in five years, you will be that much closer to achieving them by gaining experience as a Special Agent.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Entry Level Example

"In five years, I see myself working and gaining experience as a Special Agent with the bureau. My long-term goals are to work as a Supervisory Agent with the BAU, and I need to gain a lot of experience as a Special Agent before applying to that position. In five years, I would like to be working in the missing person unit so that I can gain valuable experience in investigations."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Experienced Example

"My five-year goal with the FBI is to promote to Supervisory Special Agent, supervising a squad that investigates foreign counterintelligence. I know that position is quite competitive to achieve, and I plan on using my experience as a Counterintelligence Agent in the Army and my quality work as a Special Agent to advance to that position."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

9.   Why do you want to work for the FBI?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Many FBI agents say they knew they wanted to be an agent from a young age. Others decide to work in the FBI after spending time as a municipal police officer or in another law enforcement role. No matter what got you here, the interviewer would like to know that you have an innate sense of justice and a passion for supporting the greater good.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Focus Your Answer On

The interviewer wants to hear that you want a career in the FBI for the right reasons and that your motivation aligns with the bureau's. Focus your answer to coordinate with the FBI's mission statement, which is to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution of the United States.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

What to Avoid

When responding to this question, avoid giving a response that does not fit the FBI's priorities. The top priorities for the FBI include the following:

- Protect the United States from terrorist attacks
- Combat public corruption at all levels
- Protect civil rights
- Protect the United States against foreign intelligence operations, espionage, and cyber operations

If you respond with a different reason for wanting a career in the FBI, the interviewer may not feel you are the best person for the job.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Remember To

Of course, you will have your personal reasons for wanting a career in the FBI. Still, you should add a few of the top priorities for the FBI in your response, showing that you share the same values as the bureau.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

1st Entry Level Example

"When I first enrolled in college, I wasn't sure what direction I wanted to take my career, but considered exploring criminal justice. Then I read the book Mindhunter: Inside the FBI's Elite Serial Crime Unit, by John E. Douglas. This prompted me to take a course on criminal psychology and profiling. This sparked my interest in pursuing a career with the FBI. I wanted to continue my education, and received a partial scholarship, but decided to enroll in the Naval Officer's Program and they paid for my continued education. In the Navy, I served as Master at Arms. Now, having earned my Master's Degree, I feel uniquely poised to finally pursue my long held ambition to join the Federal Bureau of Investigation."

Written by Kevin Downey on December 18th, 2022

1st Experienced Example

"After spending seven years as a police officer, I started seeking something bigger with more robust challenges and varied cases. I was approached by a friend who has been an FBI agent for many years, and his description of his career was precisely what I was seeking. I want to make a bigger difference for my country and the American people by serving a broader range of cases while upholding the Constitution of the United States."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

2nd Experienced Example

"I have known since I was a child that I wanted a career in the FBI. My grandfather was an FBI agent, as was my father, making me a third-generation law enforcement officer. My passion for helping others to find justice, serving my country, protecting the American people, and upholding the Constitution of the United States is what motivated me to apply to the bureau."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

10.   How do you handle a situation where your superior does not properly communicate information to you?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Clear communication is vital when working for the FBI. The interviewer would like to know how you would handle poor communication between yourself and a superior. You cannot force others to communicate with you in a way you would always prefer, so describe how you deal with this situation professionally. Talk to the interviewer about a specific time that you have handled a leader who does not interact with you in a way that you like. Be sure to include the resolution.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Focus Your Answer On

Focus on how you communicate your concerns about the differences in communication with your supervisor to come to a resolution. That shows you value the information your supervisor has to share and that you have excellent interpersonal and communication skills. It also shows the interviewer that you are proactive and have no problem discussing issues with your superiors.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

What to Avoid

When answering this question, avoid saying anything negative about a former supervisor or making fun of their communication skills. Everyone has different ways of communicating, and others might not have the same skills as you. Explain that you had a supervisor who did not communicate the same way as you, but do so without speaking poorly of that person.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Remember To

Remember to include the resolution after speaking with your supervisor regarding their communication. The interviewer wants to hear if anything changed in how your supervisor shared information with you in the future and if your communication skills were effective in making the change.

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Entry Level Example

"If my superior officer were not communicating effectively, I would approach them discreetly and ask to talk about the issue. They may not realize that not everyone understands and interprets messages the same way. Hopefully, we can find common ground to improve communication during our conversation. So far, I have worked with great leaders who are very conscious of the way they communicate."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

Experienced Example

"Whenever I have a supervisor who does not properly communicate with me, I try to learn their style of communication and emulate it. Sometimes you have to relate to others in their style to be understood. I implemented this method with my most recent supervisor and now have a great working relationship with her."

Written by Krista Wenz on April 24th, 2022

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