FSOT - The Written Test

Basically, the whole selection process goes as follows:

FSOT > QEP > OA > Clearences > Final Review > Register > Offer (The Call)

This process clearly takes a while and, if you haven't already guessed, if you fail any part, you start all the way at the beginning. I wanted go more into detail on the FSOT (or the Written Test) since I had the pleasure of taking and passing this part of the process.

There are 4 parts to the FSOT: Job Knowledge, Biographical, English Expression, and the Essay.

Job Knowledge is multiple choice and seems like random trivia. Questions like, "What Amendment to the U.S. Constitution gave women the right to vote?" The topics of questions can be anything from Basic IT to World History. No question is very deep but you really need to know a little about a lot. It's hard to study for this but I recommend using the Official ACT practice guide. Other than that, I would memorize major court cases, amendments to the Constitution, U.S. Government, Basic U.S. History, and try to well versed in different parts of the world.

English Expression is very straight forward. Make sure you are decent at basic grammar and English mechanics. Read and write more too. This is basic stuff and easy to study for. I didn't study for this and still passed. Now if you aren't a great writer, you may want to brush up with a Elements of Style book.

The Bio section is tricky. I also did the best at this section. I just suggest not being humble and provide every example you can even if it isn't a great example. For example, you can use time spent in college clubs. Don't be shy in this section

The essay is easy. Why do I say this? Because you can't fail it is you write a simple 5 part essay. Intro, three point body, and a conclusion. Make sure you answer the question asked and don't get too ambitious. Most people fail because they try to write too much or use a weird essay structure. Look up ACT essay writing if you are confused.

How did I do?

June 2011 Test:
Job Knowledge: 53.69
Biographic Information: 61.83
English Expression: 55.93
Multiple Choice Total: 171.45
Minimum to pass: 154.00

Essay: 8
Minimum to pass: 6