Ace Your Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Job Interview: The Top 25 Questions and How to Answer Them

Getting hired by the prestigious Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is no easy feat. Their rigorous recruitment process and extensive background checks mean only the very best candidates make the cut. If you have an FBI job interview coming up proper preparation is key.

In this article, I’ll share the top 25 most common FBI interview questions along with tips and sample answers to help you put your best foot forward. With insight into the types of questions asked, you’ll be able to impress your interviewers and prove you have what it takes to join the Bureau.

Overview of the FBI Hiring Process

Before we get into the specific questions, let’s quickly go over what you can expect during the FBI hiring process:

• Online application – This is where you’ll provide information about your background, education, skills and submit any required documents.

• Entrance exam – You may need to take an exam that covers logic, analytical reasoning, writing skills and personality assessment.

• Panel interview – Be prepared for an extensive interview with a panel of 3-5 evaluators. They’ll assess your qualifications background, communication skills and compatibility.

• Polygraph test – The FBI polygraph test is used to verify information and ensure candidates demonstrate integrity

• Background investigation – Your character, associates, credit history, criminal record and other details will be thoroughly examined.

• Medical exam – You’ll need to be in top physical and mental condition to proceed.

• Fitness test – The FBI physical fitness test evaluates your strength, endurance and conditioning.

With an understanding of the rigorous FBI hiring process, let’s get into the top interview questions you’re likely to face:

25 Common FBI Interview Questions (With Sample Answers)

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

This opening question aims to gauge your motivation for joining the Bureau. Interviewers want to determine if you’re driven by the right reasons to serve your country and protect its citizens.

Sample Answer: I have admired the FBI’s mission of protecting the American people and upholding justice since I was young. Over the course of my career in law enforcement and national security, I developed a deep passion for keeping our nation safe. Joining the FBI would allow me to serve my country at the highest level while collaborating with some of the most talented investigators and analysts in the world. The opportunity to work on cases that impact millions is incredibly motivating to me. I am committed to the values of integrity, bravery, and fidelity that the Bureau stands for.

2. Why should we hire you over other qualified candidates?

With this question, interviewers want to determine what makes you the best person for the job. It’s a chance to sell yourself and stand out from the competition.

Sample Answer: I believe my strong investigative skills coupled with my background in criminal justice make me an excellent fit for this role. During my time with the local police department, I spearheaded numerous complex investigations that led to major convictions. For instance, in the Hanson embezzlement case, my diligent evidence analysis and witness interviews resulted in uncovering the suspect’s decade-long financial crimes. I also have extensive experience collaborating with federal agencies including the FBI and DEA on joint operations. My passion for justice, meticulous nature and ability to work effectively under high-stakes pressure position me as a top candidate for this role. I am confident that I have the diverse skills and experience needed to excel as an FBI agent.

3. How has your law enforcement experience prepared you for a role with the FBI?

Since extensive law enforcement experience is a prerequisite for becoming an FBI agent, interviewers will want details about your specific background. Demonstrate how it’s equipped you with the skills needed for FBI service.

Sample Answer: My decade of experience in law enforcement has prepared me extremely well for a role with the FBI. Investigating complex crimes requires patience, skepticism, and attention to detail—all skills I have honed over my career. For example, as a detective with the Violent Crimes Unit, I spearheaded the 3-year investigation leading to the arrest of the Parkland killer. This taught me invaluable lessons about constructing airtight cases, collaborating with disparate groups, and persevering despite obstacles. Furthermore, my time in undercover narcotics gave me firsthand insight into collecting intelligence, securing informants, and gaining trust in high-pressure situations. I understand the rapid nature of this work, the need for discretion, and the importance of quick and ethical decision-making. My diverse law enforcement background has me fully prepared to take on the most complex cases as an FBI agent.

4. How would you handle working high-profile or dangerous assignments?

FBI agents often work assignments that are highly dangerous, confidential, and critical to national security. Interviewers want to ensure you can keep composure under such high-pressure situations.

Sample Answer: Working high-profile, high-pressure assignments comes with the territory in the FBI, and it’s something I’ve given a lot of thought to. The key is maintaining composure and relying on your intensive training and preparation. I would approach dangerous assignments with the utmost discretion, ensuring confidentiality requirements are met. My background has prepared me well for assessing risks and making quick decisions under pressure. For instance, during my time with the DEA, I worked numerous undercover assignments to infiltrate drug trafficking rings. This required split-second decision making based on meticulous preparation. While safety is paramount, these types of high-risk, high-reward assignments truly motivate me. I understand the need for secrecy, precaution, and level-headedness when lives are on the line.

5. How would you respond if asked by a supervisor to do something unethical or illegal during an investigation?

Integrity is hugely important for the Bureau, so interviewers want to see where your moral compass points. This question gauges your ethics and ability to think for yourself.

Sample Answer: If faced with an unethical or illegal request, I would politely but firmly reject it and explain my reasoning to my supervisor. I also understand the importance of proper protocol, so I would immediately report the request to the appropriate internal affairs division. Upholding the law and demonstrating integrity are central to the mission of the FBI. I would never compromise those principles or obey orders blindly, even from supervisors. My moral compass stems from an unwavering dedication to justice, and I believe that by maintaining ethical practices, we build public trust and ultimately more effective investigations.

6. How do you prioritize tasks when handling multiple assignments or cases?

FBI agents routinely juggle multiple important assignments simultaneously. This question tests your organizational skills and ability to focus on the most mission-critical tasks.

Sample Answer: With multiple ongoing assignments, I would prioritize based on urgency and importance to public safety or national security. For instance, an imminent terrorist threat would take precedence over a white collar financial investigation. However, I understand even longer-term investigations require daily progress. My approach is to assign each case a priority level based on these factors, then focus my efforts accordingly while ensuring nothing falls through the cracks. I utilize productivity tools like project management software to track progress and deadlines across assignments. This helps optimize my time and efforts for maximum effectiveness. But I’m also flexible – if a sudden development changes the priority of an assignment, I can quickly shift gears and resources.

7. How would you go about building a rapport with a suspicious criminal informant?

FBI agents need to master the art of securing informants and gaining cooperation from criminals. This question reveals your interpersonal skills.

Sample Answer: Building rapport with a suspicious criminal informant requires producing quick results, demonstrating discretion and an understanding of their motives. I would establish myself as a reliable and ethical agent they can trust. At the same time, I know showing empathy for their situation can be helpful. My approach would be to initially pursue low-risk exchanges of information, proving I have access to resources that benefit them. Over time, this can develop into a mutually beneficial relationship. However, I understand informant relationships require boundaries. I will always keep the goals of an investigation at the forefront. With discretion, perspective and patience, I am confident in my ability to gain cooperation from even the most suspicious informants.

8. If appointed as supervisor of a unit with low morale, how would you boost and motivate your agents?

This behavioral question tests your leadership skills. Interviewers want to ensure you can inspire and rally a team.

Sample Answer: Improving low morale requires open communication, accountability and celebrating wins. I would start by having transparent one-on-one discussions with each team member to understand their concerns while setting clear expectations. Establishing attainable short-term group goals can also reinvigorate agents and restore a sense of purpose. As long as expectations are reasonable, small wins build momentum. I would ensure workloads are distributed fairly based on agents’ strengths and weaknesses. And I believe positive reinforcement is key—I would recognize individuals who go above and beyond. With openness, accountability and encouragement, I am confident in my ability to motivate and lead agents to success, even amid low morale.

9. How would you handle working with local law enforcement agencies who may have an inherent distrust of federal partners?

Interagency cooperation is essential, so interviewers want to know