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Foreign Service Careers

Many factors must be considered when deciding whether to join the Foreign Service. Applicants must not only contemplate issues such as salaries and benefits, but also must reflect upon the impact that the challenges and demands of the Foreign Service will have on themselves and their families.

Foreign Service Officers currently serve in more than 250 posts around the world. Health conditions, educational facilities, employment opportunities for spouses, and security situations vary from post to post. Foreign Service Officers, however, must be committed to serve in any post around the world as the needs of the Service demand.

Joining the Foreign Service is an important decision. Unfortunately, due to the nature of the appointment process, offers of appointment often must be made on short notice. The Board of Examiners for the Foreign Service, therefore, urges you to consider your decision before you receive an offer of appointment.

If you have additional questions, please contact the Recruitment Division at the address below.

U.S. Department of State
PER/REE, SA-1
2401 E Street, NW, 5th Floor
Washington, DC  20522

The Department of State is committed to equal opportunity and fair and equitable treatment for all without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, sexual orientation, disabling condition, political affiliation, marital status, or prior statutory, constitutionally protected activity.


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