FBI Test [Phase 2]: Ultimate FBI Phase II Test Prep
The FBI Phase 2 test will be your next challenge after passing the Phase 1 Test. This next step includes a timed written assessment which will require you to analyze given data, as well as a structured interview by three special agents who will measure your competencies to see if you have what it takes to become one yourself.
If you fail, you will only have 1 more retest, at year one year from the interview date- so make sure you come prepared.
Keep reading this page for more information about the FBI Phase II Test!
Click here for our page on the FBI Phase 1 Special Agent Exam.
FBI Phase II Test
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What is The FBI Special Agent Phase 2 Exam?
The Phase II test is the fourth step in the FBI special agent hiring process- you will take it after applying, taking the Phase I test, and undergoing an internal review.
If you pass it, you will move on to undergo a final physical fitness test, and then receive your conditional job offer at the FBI.
This test consists of 2 parts: a 150-minute writing assessment, and a 1-hour structured interview. Note that only after passing the writing assessment will you be invited to take the interview.
Phase II Writing Assessment
Once you have been invited to take this test, you will have 14 days to take it at a local PSI testing center.
You will be given data, and two and a half hours to analyze it and produce 2 reports. Your reports should be comprehensive, well-structured, and have proper grammar, spelling as well as punctuation. The prompt is usually about planning an event, with no obvious FBI connotations- but should be taken very seriously.
Note that you will not be allowed to use any spellchecking software- for this reason, you should make sure your written expression skills are top-notch before coming.
Here is a sample question similar to what you might be given:
Sample FBI Phase II Writing Assessment
You and your two friends are planning a weekend-long bachelor party for another friend. There will be 15 people attending in total including the four of you. Your goal is to plan the perfect weekend for the groom-to-be by analyzing data on potential activities, relevant establishments, and logistical considerations, as well as anything else this text provides you.
The location chosen is New Beach City, which has a warm climate at this time of year, with a very small chance of light rain during the day. The groom-to-be likes camping, extreme sports, gaming and cooking.
To complete this assignment, you will need to conduct a thorough analysis of the following:
- Activities
- Travel
- Hosting Accommodations
Activities:
Go-kart racing is available for $50 per person, Friday and Saturday afternoons.
Paintball is available for $40 per person on Saturdays.
Indoor Skydiving is available for $70 per person on Saturdays.
There is a Casino available for 100$ per person, Friday and Saturday nights.
Travel
Popular taxi apps Obert and Swyft are available in the city, but they may be busy on Friday and Saturday nights. There is also a city bus service with multiple lines, but it might not be running late at night. Bikes are available for rental.
Hosting Accommodations
The Hotel Grande is found downtown. It has a 4.5-star rating and costs 150$ per night. There are 10 rooms available.
The Hostel House is found on the beachfront. It has a 3.5 rating and costs 50$ per night. There are 30 rooms available.
There are several campsites available in Beach City's various natural parks and beaches. each campsite can house a group of 5 people, and any equipment is not provided.
Given the information above, which choices would you make for the event, and why?
Practice your English skills with our Secret Service (SAEE) Tests Preparation!
Phase II Structured Interview
For this next section, you will be met with a panel of 3 FBI Special Agents for an hour long structured interview. It is based on the standard government interview format.
The FBI Phase 2 Exam's structured interview section is comprised of a series of questions meant to assess the candidate's qualifications and suitability for the role. The interview covers a wide range of topics, including the candidate's professional and personal background, as well as their knowledge of the FBI's mission and values.
During the interview, you will be asked a variety of questions. These can range from inquiries on why you want to become an FBI special agent, how you handle difficult situations, and your responses to hypothetical scenarios. The interviewers will also ask about your experience and qualifications, including education, work experience, and any relevant training or certifications. It is crucial to be well-prepared and able to clearly state your qualifications and how they align with the FBI's mission and values.
Sample FBI Phase II Structured Interview Questions
1. When was a time when you had to make a difficult ethical decision?
- When answering this question, it is important to provide a specific example of a situation where you had to weigh multiple options and consider the potential consequences of each one.
- Explain the decision you made and why you made it, as well as the outcome and any lessons you learned.
- It is also important to show how your decision aligns with the FBI's values and ethical standards.
- Avoid vague/generalized answers without a specific example, answering without clearly explaining your decision-making, and forgoing the outcome and lessons you learned from the experience.
2. Describe a situation that required your conflict resolution skills.
As with the previous question, it is important to provide a specific example. Also make sure to explain the steps you took to resolve the conflict, including specific details about what you did, what happened, and what you learned. We recommend the STAR Method for almost any type of question in an interview.
For this question specifically, it is important to show your ability to remain neutral and find a solution that is best for all parties involved.
3. Tell me about a time when you dealt with a difficult person or situation at work.
As with the previous questions, using the STAR Method is your best bet. For this question specifically, your ability to remain professional, calm and composed in the situation should be emphasized in your explanation. This means you should avoid any descriptions of decisions made out of anger or frustration, and instead showcase your maturity and peaceful conflict-resolution skills.
4. How do you handle stress?
Other than providing examples, reasoning, outcomes and what you learned, answering this question is all about showing your own methods of handling stress, which you will surely need to do as an FBI Special Agent. Explain specific strategies you use including management, organization, exercise, or mindfulness, and explain how they help you manage your stress and work under it efficiently.
To ace the interview, there are a few key things to keep in mind:
- Be prepared to discuss your qualifications, work experience, and personal characteristics in great detail. Since this is the FBI, know that everything you say can be confirmed/denied quite easily.
- Be honest in your responses, and avoid giving vague or evasive answers. The agents interviewing you will have expert skills in detecting such mistakes, so it is better to avoid giving them something to work with.
- Practice answering interview questions in advance to increase your confidence and reduce stress on the day of the interview. Remember that when asked about your problem solving skills, you can give an example from your past while explaining how you used your skills in that scenario, for example.