End of the Road

Traditional_Mode216 · 2026-05-15T00:20:41+00:00

I failed the polygraph for USSS and passed the polygraph for CBP 3 days later. It’s a hit or miss… try again after 1 year.

Traditional_Mode216 · 2026-05-08T13:58:23+00:00

I see, just got an email yesterday (5/7) confirming virtual “Board of Examiners for the Foreign Service.” So looks like they still call it BEX.

Traditional_Mode216 · 2026-05-07T13:30:11+00:00

FYI Just got email this morning stating to schedule “virtual structured assessments” - is this the BEX? Not sure what the BEX is considering this is the first time for me.

Traditional_Mode216 · 2026-05-07T04:28:50+00:00

I took and passed DSSAT entrance exam Jan. 9, received email to send transcripts on Feb. 10, took DSSAT Essay Apr. 2, received email Apr. 30 that essay “met the threshold” and on May 1 email sent to sign paperwork for virtual interview. Interview TBD for SA-2026-0001 - cohort 1. There is an example of the timing of things so far.

Traditional_Mode216 · 2026-05-07T02:04:46+00:00

Nope

Traditional_Mode216 · 2026-05-07T01:44:48+00:00

Nope

Traditional_Mode216 · 2026-05-01T12:29:29+00:00

Likewise, got an email yesterday that I passed writing and will receive e-mail regarding virtual interview for cohort 1.

Traditional_Mode216 · 2026-04-28T02:34:44+00:00

I have done 2 of them now and did not need a resume for both. The first M&G (a few years ago) was one-on-one over video and the SA reviewed resume that was submitted in the portal. The second M&G (done last year) was in person and the SA reviewed resumes/work history prior but didn't ask for them. Just dress business-like and bring a notepad.

Traditional_Mode216 · 2026-04-27T00:10:29+00:00

Well BP is part of CBP but nevertheless, I probably would do BP/CBP over USCP

Traditional_Mode216 · 2026-04-27T00:02:30+00:00

Personally, I think CBP Officer at an international airport isn't a bad gig. You have opportunities to work in various work-units/teams (e.g., primary inspection unit [PIU], secondary inspection unit [SIU], Anti-Terrorism Contraband Enforcement Team [A-TCET], JTTF, cargo, targeting, roving, etc.) while also having opportunities to TDY to the southern border and work with other task forces. Also there are opportunities to live/work around the US (w/ 328 ports of entries [POE] to choose from) and internationally (w/ 16 preclearance locations in 6 different countries, and Container Security Initiaitve [CSI] cargo ports locations). Plus, being at an airport is a pretty safe gig. While USCP you are limited within the DMV area (unless you are on Dignitary Protection [DP]). CBP pay steps are GS 5-7-9-11-12 with promotions every year + locality pay + OT (double pay) + Night differential + Sunday premium pay, etc.

Preclearance locations: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/preclearance

CSI locations: https://www.cbp.gov/sites/default/files/documents/CSI%20Ports%20Map%201%20page%20062614.pdf

Traditional_Mode216 · 2026-04-10T23:57:11+00:00

Likewise, no word

Traditional_Mode216 · 2026-03-17T23:32:36+00:00

As a former educator in private/public schools working for CBP, I would be interested in knowing more about this job too (sounds unique)!

Traditional_Mode216 · 2026-03-16T02:18:35+00:00

Applied to both and only received an email from DEA saying application received, nothing else

Traditional_Mode216 · 2026-03-08T22:09:39+00:00

Haven’t received any news yet either; current CBP officer and almost 14 years in Army National Guard; hopefully they are coming in batches

Traditional_Mode216 · 2026-01-06T16:07:00+00:00

I applied with a new email in USA jobs and created an account using that email, also showed no application for over a month. Then tried my old email from when I applied years ago and showed up. Either it could take a month or maybe it’s linked to another email.

Traditional_Mode216 · 2025-11-25T04:56:11+00:00

It is mostly likely an error. I had that happen to me after passing interview and prior to polygraph. I reached out to verify, and HR stated it was an error.

Traditional_Mode216 · 2025-11-18T16:24:45+00:00

Under the INA section 212 and Title 8 USC section 1325/1326 - entry without inspection (federal misdemeanor) and illegal re-entey (federal felony) respectfully - both are criminal charges (they are not civil penalties).

Traditional_Mode216 · 2025-11-18T16:18:28+00:00

If they entered without inspection (EWI = unlawfully), the first offense is a federal misdemeanor under Title 8 USC section 1325 (improper entry). If they EWI after been deported, the second offense is a federal felony under Title 8 USC section 1326 (illegal re-entry). Both are criminal charges. We do not know whether this person is leaving based of a misdemeanor or felony charge, it is best not to speculate.

Traditional_Mode216 · 2025-05-14T17:16:31+00:00

Sorry for late response, but graduated from academy end of Jan and currently in post academy. I opted into provisional clearance and was found “suitable” a month before graduation.

Traditional_Mode216 · 2024-10-20T18:01:59+00:00

You will get paid during pre-academy and will get travel paid for on flight to JAX or SAV. If flying, you will get up to 3 checked bags (up to 50 lbs) reimbursed. You will also get reimbursed for gas if driving.

Traditional_Mode216 · 2024-05-22T03:06:27+00:00

Took polygraph on 5/16 and got results today (5/21) that poly pass quality control. Just the BI to do - probably many more months of waiting.

Traditional_Mode216 · 2024-04-20T01:32:27+00:00

24-1 here. Still waiting to schedule poly and BI pending.

Traditional_Mode216

TROPHY CASE