Applicants only get five minutes of rest between four tough, back-to-back exercises.
CHESAPEAKE, Va. — Do you have the endurance to become a special agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation?
13News Now wanted to answer that question.
“A lot of people come here thinking they’re in really good shape, but there is a difference between being in shape outside the bureau and being in 'bureau' shape," explained Jodie Zito, a special agent with the FBI Norfolk Field Office.
There are four physical exercises that make up the physical fitness test given to special agent applicants, conducted back-to-back and separated by just five minutes of rest. That order of events is: one minute of sit-ups, a 300-meter sprint, push-ups until failure and a timed 1.5-mile run.
Recent changes to the application process, Zito said, have allowed for more applicants to make it further along in the special agent application process.
“You can take it an unlimited amount of times in a year, where it used to be after your third time failing, you were out of the application process. I feel like people don’t take it as seriously as they used to, and they show up not prepared and they're not in 'bureau' shape," she said.
Now, no one can ever say I don't go the extra mile for stories (literally).
This morning, @FBINorfolk conducted a physical fitness test with me to find out: what does it take to become a special agent? Turns out, being "in shape" isn't enough!
Find out how I did on @13NewsNow. pic.twitter.com/2YaA6kvwUw
FBI officials tell 13News Now that historically, the physical fitness component of the application process would eliminate roughly 50% of the remaining pool of applicants going through the process.
“I’ve been doing this for 16 years now. People used to do really poorly on the pushups and excellent on the runs. We’ve seen a shift in the way people work out, people are better at pushups and worse on the runs," she said. "I think people individually look at each event and think it could be easy, but together in totality. it's very difficult."
The results of each exercise are scored on a tier system and then given a numerical score. As of the July 12 test date, applicants need to score a "9" to pass on to the FBI Academy in Quantico, where they'd then need to score a "12" for the same test.
FBI officials say this is a deviation from years past, where applicants would need to score a "12" -- the same number as what they'd need to later score at the FBI Academy -- to go.
Reporter Alex Littlehales participated in the physical fitness test, and finished with the following splits:
- Sit-ups: 40 (2 points)
- 300-meter sprint: 53.6 seconds (0 points)
- Push-ups: 22 (0 points)
- 1.5 mile run: 12:59 (0 points)
It shows how the completion of the exercises does not guarantee a positive score, either. Zero points can be awarded,and in some cases, points can be deducted as well, even in scores that are only seconds different from a score that would register a point.
FAQs
To pass the FBI fitness test, you have to complete a certain number of four exercises — sit-ups, push-ups, a 300-meter sprint, and a 1.5-mile run — with no more than a five-minute break between each one. The target number is different for men and women. The better you do at each exercise, the more points you earn.
Is the FBI physical fitness test hard? ›
it's very difficult." The results of each exercise are scored on a tier system and then given a numerical score. As of the July 12 test date, applicants need to score a "9" to pass on to the FBI Academy in Quantico, where they'd then need to score a "12" for the same test.
What is a passing score for the FBI PFT? ›
To graduate from the Academy, you must still pass a PFT, scoring a minimum of 12 points with at least 1 point in each of the four events—so keep up your training! It's essential that all special agents remain in good physical shape throughout their careers at the FBI.
What is the pass rate for the FBI special agent exam? ›
The FBI Entrance Exam has a 30% passing rate. If you fail to pass the test for the first time, you'll have a second chance to retest 90 days after your final test session. If you fail it for the second time, your application for the FBI Special Agent position will be permanently deactivated.
How fast do you have to run 1.5 miles for FBI? ›
1.5 Mile Run:
| Score | Female | Male |
|---|
| 1 | 13:59-13:35 | 12:24-12:15 |
| 2 | 13:34–13:00 | 12:14–11:35 |
| 3 | 12:59–12:30 | 11:34–11:10 |
| 4 | 12:29–11:57 | 11:09–10:35 |
8 more rowsJan 20, 2023
Physical Fitness Test
Sit-ups: Maximum number of continuous sit-ups in one minute. Sprint: Timed 300-meter sprint. Push-ups: Maximum number of continuous push-ups (untimed) Run: Timed 1.5-mile run.
How many push-ups for FBI? ›
Minimum pass for women is 14+ pushups, for men: 30+ pushups. 1.5-mile run — This test is to assess endurance. Staff are required to run 1.5-miles, or six laps around a standard track.
What is the hardest part of FBI training? ›
For many applicants, the FBI special agent physical fitness test (PFT) is, without a doubt, the most challenging part of the process. Our PFT doesn't just test physical fitness. It tests qualities like self-discipline, self-motivation, and the ability to plan and adjust to challenges.
How long does it take to train for FBI PFT? ›
This program is designed to be completed during the 6 weeks directly prior to you taking the official PFT. The training plan will follow a basic 5-day per week, format. The Final (6th) week is an unload or “taper” week, with reduced volume to allow recovery before taking the FBI Special Agent PFT.
What happens if I fail the FBI PFT? ›
You must also demonstrate physical readiness to perform duties so you must complete at least one PFT during BFTC. If you are unable to pass at least one PFT, you will be dismissed.
The FBI test only has a 30% passing rate. It is not only important to pass the exam but it is important to score well. Your score will be kept in your file and used to help decide if you are a worthy candidate.
What GPA does the FBI look for? ›
Have and maintain a 2.95 cumulative GPA or better on a 4.0 scale at the time of application and through graduation. Not be a current, permanent FBI employee. Pass all of the FBI employment background investigation requirements and be able to receive a Top Secret Clearance.
How to pass FBI test? ›
Tips for the FBI Test
Read all of the test instructions carefully and make sure you fully understand them before beginning answering questions. Do not over-interpret. There are no “trick” FBI test questions; they are meant to be straightforward. There is no penalty for wrong answers.
What is the FBI acceptance rate? ›
How Does the FBI Hire Agents? The FBI accepts fewer than 20% of applicants, making jobs within the bureau highly competitive. Applicants typically begin their candidacy through one of the FBI's various entry programs, all of which are tailored to specific FBI career tracks.
How long is the FBI special agent hiring process? ›
The special agent application process generally takes at least one year and often longer, depending upon annual federal funding levels and hiring goals. The Special Agent Selection System (SASS) — Phase I and Phase II Testing — is based on an applicant's individual competitiveness.
How many push-ups for FBI test? ›
Minimum pass for women is 14+ pushups, for men: 30+ pushups. 1.5-mile run — This test is to assess endurance. Staff are required to run 1.5-miles, or six laps around a standard track.
How hard is the FBI test? ›
It is worth noting that it is relatively tricky, with a 30% FBI phase 1 test pass rate. The first two sections' reasoning questions are exceedingly challenging, and there needs to be correct answers in the sections that assess personality, preferences, and professionalism.
How long is the SWAT 3 mile run? ›
The test measures general fitness, strength and endurance needed for SWAT operations, and involves the following four events: 1) pull-ups – 20 maximum; 2) sit-ups – 80 maximum in two minutes; 3) push-ups – 50 maximum; and 4) a three mile run – eighteen minutes maximum.
What is the best prep for the FBI test? ›
Based upon over 1000 5-star reviews on ShopperApproved ™, the best FBI Special Agent test prep course on the market is by Sgt. George Godoy. Reasons students rate FBI Special Agent Test Prep Course so highly include: All FBI Phase 1 and Phase 2 test topics are covered in detail.
