U.S. Department of State

America
is calling.

The United States Foreign Service is an elite calling in American public life. Represent the Republic abroad and shape the world on behalf of your country.

Answer the CallLearn the Process
180+
Countries You Could Serve
270+
Embassies & Consulates
5
Career Tracks
100+
Years of Service

The United States Foreign Service is an elite calling in American public life.

A Foreign Service Officer (FSO) is America's diplomat — the person standing up for U.S. interests, protecting American citizens abroad, and advancing our nation's values on the world stage.

FSOs negotiate trade deals, counter foreign adversaries' influence, facilitate billions in American exports, and ensure that wherever you go in the world, the American flag commands respect.

Officers

The Face of the Republic

As a U.S. Foreign Service Officer (FSO), you'll engage with foreign governments, advocate for U.S. interests, and shape global policy. FSOs represent America at embassies worldwide in high-stakes environments confronting novel problems. FSOs are the tip of the spear of American leadership.

Become an Officer
Specialists

Diplomacy's Backbone

U.S. Foreign Service Specialists (FSS) provide the critical expertise and operational support that allows American diplomacy to function around the world. From IT and security to medicine, logistics, and public outreach, they bring specialized training to missions in over 270 U.S. embassies and consulates.

Become a Specialist

The process includes the following stages:

Frequently Asked Questions

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Be the face of America abroad.

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