FBI Phase II Exam
How Do I Pass the FBI Phase II Interview?
The FBI Phase II Exam is a structured panel interview where candidates answer behavioral questions using real-life experiences. To succeed, practice answering questions using the STAR method and focus on leadership, decision-making, and integrity. Review your past experiences and align your answers with FBI core competencies. Use free interview prep tools and mock questions to improve your delivery, timing, and clarity. With the right preparation, you can pass Phase II and move closer to becoming an FBI Special Agent.
FBI Phase II Exam – Interview Format, Questions, and How to Prepare
The FBI Phase II Exam is the second major step in the hiring process for becoming a Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. If you’ve passed the Phase I Exam, you will be invited to this highly structured interview stage, which evaluates your professional judgment, communication skills, and alignment with FBI core values.
What Is the FBI Phase II Exam?
The FBI Phase II Exam is a 90-minute structured panel interview conducted by three FBI Special Agents. It focuses on behavioral-based questions that assess how you’ve handled real-life situations in previous jobs or life experiences.
The interview follows the STAR format:
Situation
Task
Action
Result
You will be asked 5–10 scenario-based questions that evaluate competencies such as leadership, adaptability, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving.
Sample FBI Phase II Questions
Describe a time you had to resolve a conflict in a team.
Tell us about a situation where you were under pressure and how you handled it.
Explain a time when you made a mistake and what you did to fix it.
Give an example of how you adapted to a major change in your workplace.
How to Prepare
Use STAR-format answers to clearly structure your responses.
Review your professional experiences and identify situations that show leadership, integrity, and resilience.
Practice out loud with mock interviews or a recording tool.
Be concise but detailed—your answer should take 2–3 minutes per question.
Understand the FBI’s core competencies and tailor your answers accordingly.
Tip for Success
You can only take the Phase II interview twice in your lifetime, so preparation is critical. Candidates who pass are placed in the FBI’s Special Agent applicant pool and may receive a Conditional Job Offer depending on hiring needs.
FBI Special Agent Hiring Process – Step-by-Step Guide
Becoming a Special Agent with the FBI is a competitive and structured process. The agency seeks candidates with strong moral character, leadership skills, and the ability to handle complex investigations under pressure. Here’s what the FBI hiring process typically includes:
1. Online Application
Submit your application through the FBI Jobs Portal or USAJOBS.gov. You must meet minimum requirements:
U.S. citizen
Age 23–36
Four-year accredited degree
At least two years of full-time professional work experience (or one year with a master’s degree)
2. Phase I Exam
A computer-based, proctored test assessing logic, figural reasoning, situational judgment, and personality traits. This is a pass/fail exam and must be completed at a designated test center.
3. Meet & Greet (Optional)
Some applicants may be invited to an informal in-person meeting to verify qualifications and ask questions before continuing the process.
4. Phase II Interview
A 90-minute panel interview with FBI Special Agents. Candidates respond to behavioral questions using the STAR format (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
5. Conditional Job Offer (CJO)
Successful applicants may receive a CJO, pending completion of background investigations, physical and medical requirements.
6. Background Investigation & Polygraph
A thorough investigation into your criminal, financial, employment, and personal history. A polygraph test is required to confirm the truthfulness of your responses.
7. Physical Fitness Test (PFT)
Applicants must meet minimum standards in:
Sit-ups
Push-ups
300-meter sprint
1.5-mile run
8. Medical Exam
A full medical screening including vision and hearing tests ensures candidates are fit for duty.
9. FBI Academy Training
Candidates attend a 20-week program at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Training includes firearms, defensive tactics, legal studies, and practical investigations.
FAQ
Use free FBI practice tests, sample STAR-format interview questions, and prep materials that reflect the actual format and difficulty of both Phase I and Phase II assessments. Practicing under timed conditions is highly recommended.
You can take the Phase I Exam up to two times. If you fail, you must wait one year before reapplying. For Phase II, you also have a maximum of two attempts in your lifetime.
No. The FBI accepts applicants from many backgrounds, including finance, law, cybersecurity, and education. Relevant experience is helpful but not mandatory.
Candidates who pass are invited to Phase II, which is an in-person panel interview. If successful, you’ll undergo a background check, physical fitness test, medical screening, and polygraph before receiving a final job offer.
You must be a U.S. citizen, between 23–36 years old, have a four-year degree from an accredited institution, and at least two years of full-time work experience. Veterans may receive age waivers.
If you pass the interview, you may receive a Conditional Job Offer (CJO). You’ll then go through a background check, polygraph test, physical fitness exam, medical screening, and ultimately attend the FBI Academy if cleared.
