Can I join the FBI with a JD?
Asked by: Jade Heathcote | Last update: January 4, 2026Score: 4.5/5 (3 votes)
Minimum Qualifications A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association; and, Active membership in good standing of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
What degree is best for FBI?
A degree in Criminal Justice is a highly favored choice for those aspiring to join the FBI. This major provides a comprehensive understanding of how society reacts to crime and the inner workings of law enforcement.
How old is the youngest FBI agent?
The film is loosely based on the story of Richard Wershe Jr., who in the 1980s became the youngest FBI informant ever at the age of 14. Richard Wershe Jr. White Boy Rick premiered at the Telluride Film Festival on August 31, 2018, and was released in the United States on September 14, 2018, by Sony Pictures Releasing.
Will FBI pay for law school?
The FBI has a program called UEP, University Education Program, where the FBI will help pay for your grad school but they will not pay for law school.
What college does the FBI recruit from?
While there isn't a single university from which a majority of FBI agents graduate, what matters more is the major or field of study you choose. The Federal Bureau of Investigation hires individuals with a wide range of educational backgrounds.
Want to Become an FBI Agent? Here’s How
Do FBI agents get paid well?
Average Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent yearly pay in the United States is approximately $107,212, which meets the national average.
Is FBI hard to get into?
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.
Do you need a good GPA for FBI?
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 much does the FBI internship pay?
How much does an Intern make at Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the United States? The estimated average pay for Intern at this company in the United States is $21.52 per hour, which is 9% above the national average.
Is 30 too old to join FBI?
“The FBI Special Agent process includes a written test, an oral board interview, a physical fitness test and an extensive background investigation,” said Hooper. “Although the mandatory age for a Special Agent is 23, most new agents are approximately 30 years old.”
Does the FBI allow tattoos?
The FBI requires its agents and other employees to look professional and has high standards for how they present themselves, but there is no official FBI tattoo regulations. Speak with a hiring manager before getting a tattoo if you want to join the bureau.
Can you see your family during FBI training?
To allow for proper focus during your time at the Academy, the FBI discourages family members from moving nearby during the training duration.
What type of FBI makes the most money?
The highest-paying job at Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is a Psychiatrist with a salary of $222,442 per year (estimate). The lowest-paying job at Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is a Janitor with a salary of $46,499 per year (estimate).
How long is FBI training?
All special agents begin their career at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia, for 20 weeks of intensive training at one of the world's finest law enforcement training facilities. During their time there, trainees live on campus and participate in a variety of training activities.
Does the FBI hire right out of college?
The Collegiate Hiring Initiative is the FBI's program to recruit recent graduates (within the previous two years.) To qualify, students must have earned at least a 2.95 GPA at an accredited school and meet all other FBI hiring requirements.
Does FBI pay for college?
Beyond traditional benefit plans, the FBI provides reimbursement opportunities for tuition, federally backed student loans and public transportation subsidies, as well as participation in academic leadership programs and sabbaticals.
How long is the FBI 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.
Is the FBI honors internship worth it?
This internship offers students an unmatched opportunity to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution of the United States. At the end of their summer, Honors Interns who receive a positive evaluation may continue in the program throughout the school year.
What is the highest paid type of lawyer?
- Intellectual Property (IP) Lawyer. One reason IP lawyers are some of the highest-paid types of lawyers is that they require very specialized knowledge in distinct fields. ...
- Tax Attorneys. Tax codes are complex. ...
- Trial Attorney. ...
- Medical Lawyer. ...
- Patent Attorney. ...
- Corporate Lawyer. ...
- Real Estate Lawyer. ...
- Family Lawyer.
Do FBI agents pay well?
FBI boasts that its agents earn between $81,000 and $129,000 per year on average, though starting salaries are typically slightly lower. Supervisory agents can earn up to $170,000 annually.
Do FBI attorneys go to Quantico?
Once accepted, all employees attend the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA, for a short new employee introduction course. Employees may remain at Quantico for job-related training. The role of an FBI Legal professional is demanding and rewarding and requires stringent entry qualifications.
What disqualifies you from the FBI?
Candidates cannot have used any illegal drug, other than marijuana, within the ten (10) years preceding the date of the application for employment. Additionally, candidates cannot have sold, distributed, manufactured, or transported any illegal drug or controlled substance without legal authorization.
Is FBI agent higher than police?
No. State and local law enforcement agencies are not subordinate to the FBI, and the FBI does not supervise or take over their investigations. Instead, the investigative resources of the FBI and state and local agencies are often pooled in a common effort to investigate and solve the cases.
What is the starting salary for the FBI?
The average Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) salary ranges from approximately $48,000 per year for Operational Support Grade to $145,000 per year for Program Analyst.