Some FBI questions

[BigBaz]

Hey all. I've just recently found this site, and have found your answers to be very useful. I am in the application process for the FBI, and had a few questions for anybody who might know.

Does anyone know the physical fitness test requirements for the FBI? I'm sure it's similar to what's already been posted in other threads, but thought I would check for sure.

Also, joining the FBI is what I want to do, since it will allow me to use my computer science skills to do some good in the world, instead of just making some corporation slightly richer, but it's going to mean a bit of a pay cut for me. Basically, since I am married, I have 2 car payments to make, a mortgage payment, 2 student loan payments, 3 credit card payments, and bills, bills, bills... My question is this: Are there any benefits or programs available to FBI agents to help out with some of this? Any tax breaks, or student loan deferrments, or anything like that? Any info would be much appreciated.

[Hopeful]

I dont know much about the FBI but credit card payments? I would recommend getting your financial house in order as they look at that in their background investigation. The theory being if you can't handle your own finances; how reliable can you be?

[Drakor]

Like most goverment agancies they will not hire you unless you can afford you bills on your combined salary. I think that most go with you monthly outlay of 29-35 percent of you combine salary. Now this figure may float around depending upon departments. Banks will loan money on the 42 percent ratio. Getting your finances in order is a priority.
The FBI is also very hyper critical about your background so if there is anything remotely questionable they will now hire you. I had a friend who when though the process. She said it was pretty bad with the background. GOOD LUCK K.U.P

[sporto]

A big reason for having your debt ratio down to a managable level is that they might concider you more succeptable to bribs from organized crime, etc. If you owe too much they probably won't hire you. Try to get rid of the credit cards with a home equity loan if possible. I am currently in the process here in Canada for the RCMP and I had to liquidate my RRSP's to pay down my debt and get money to live while at depot. We don't get paid for our 22 weeks training! The only consolation is that after 25 years service we get a fairly good pension so I figure the amount of RRSP's I will need in 25 years won't be so high. I also had to sell my truck and wash out that loan. A little bit of sacrifice now means a career I know I will love so I think it is worth it.

Sporto

[Porl]

BigBaz, I concur with the previous posts. You need to have everything in order before applying. Not only your financials but everything else in your life. Start digging deep and make sure that you have been honest with your fellow men. I know someone disq-ed because he tended to be over the top on his stories, all the time.

I am sure that you have looked at the web page for the FBI. Look at the faq's. They are helpful as well:

www.fbi.gov/employment/faq.htm

It mentions in one paragraph the tests you need to take (eye exam, poly, drug) but doesn't mention PT test.
However further down it talks about the shuttle run and so forth. I am sure you could also as an FBI recruiter more info.

Good luck and keep us posted.

Porl

[Cpl Mike]

To add to what has already been said- The FBI like they're people "squeeky clean". Tighten up and pay down any/all bills before you start processing .That Agency is highly academic and they're failure rate is relatively high and comparable to high speed municipal agencies. my only caveat is that you should not be looking for street action in the FBI! it happens, but not like a municipal agency . And many major cities have better trained ,experienced officers /detectives than the FBI (no ego,just reality).The FBI offers diversity in assignments(you don't have to pick up drunken transients at 2am!),and vast resources(to me they're just investigative geeks,but hey-it takes all kinds today!!!!LOLOLOL). Follow Porls' lead and check that site out....

[BigBaz]

Thanks for all the replies. My debt isn't as bad as it sounds in my first post, but I do plan on paying it down/off before continuing.

As for the street action, that's actually okay with me. I'm currently a computer programmer, and just wanted to put some computer skills to use and do some good. Investigation is actually what I'm interested in, so I guess that makes me a geek .

Thanks again for all the help.