A bachelors degree is required for 63% of border patrol agents, while an associates degree is required for 19% of them. An official website of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. From the fundamental concepts of European Union law to the various specialized areas of law covered in the course, the series is tailored to fit your interests. As explained in Step 1, applying for a US border patrol agent position does not require a bachelor's degree, as long as applicants have earned the necessary experience. In addition to securing the border, they carry out surveillance and interdiction operations to stem the smugglingof narcotics, counterfeit goods, stolen art, illegal weapons, and biochemically hazardous substances, among others. Agents with Border Patrol experience can earn more than $80,000 per year. This video includes what you need to know as you navigate the journey in becoming a Border Patrol Agent. Have lived in the country for at least the past 3 years. Before you apply for Border Patrol positions, learn more about what the job involves and what the border patrol job requirements are. President Trump has called for increased law enforcement officers to carry firearms, so this policy is consistent with his views. The path to becoming a Border Patrol Agent includes several steps. After graduation, you will be assigned to a border patrol station in Texas. In most cases, candidates without law enforcement or relevant military experience will need to hold a degree in criminal justice or a related field in order to compete on a level playing field with experienced law enforcement professionals vying for the same positions. The first step in applying for employment is to have a basic understanding of Spanish. We are going to take the CBP Border patrol hiring process one step at a time. There are approximately 18,000 Border Patrol Agents and staff represented by the National Border Patrol Council (NBPC) labor union.1. Once approved for active duty, the recruit will attend the U.S. Border Patrol Academy for 19 weeks, the longest training program of any law enforcement agency. Border Patrol agents use the same salary scale as other government employees. Submitting to a background check and a drug test. Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents will be offered a $10,000 recruitment incentive upon successful completion of the required training at the USBP academy. Get an Entry-Level Position as a Special Agent. By doing so, you will gain a better understanding of the field. Background investigation will be conducted, using different methods that include credit checks and interviews with former employers. Border Patrol Agents have both mental and physical challenges, so they must go through a rigorous application process to ensure they are qualified to perform the tasks they are expected to perform. By following these steps, you can create a thriving mobile Notary loan signing agent business in less than 30 days. Pass a drug test. Home How to Become Border Patrol Agent. Border Patrol Agents work to ensure the security of their country by managing the flow of people and goods in and out of the country, by land, sea, air, and freight. Border patrol agent and officer candidates must pass some basic physical fitness tests in order to be accepted into the border patrol. Each step is necessary to make sure we are hiring people who are qualified and capable of doing this important work. Obtain vital education and experience. Otherwise, s/he can qualify under Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) provisions, which refers to having a bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year US college or university, or a foreign educational institution recognized by NACES (in some cases). No certification is available for border patrol agents. Failure to pass all three of the Border Patrol's physical fitness tests. A strong preference is shown to candidates who hold an associate or bachelors degree. The path to become a Border Patrol Agent includes several steps. How to become a border patrol agent The following steps describe the typical procedure for becoming a border patrol agent: 1. Getting a border patrol job is can be easy if.. If your heart is set on this career, you should make sure you're fully prepared when it comes to your health, your background, your education and your paperwork. Youll also need to be able to work long hours, often in difficult and dangerous conditions. Best Online Associate Degree in Criminal Justice, Best Online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice, New York City Police Officer Requirements, Criminal Justice Capital Punishment Focus, customs and border protection officers (CBP officers or CBPOs), US Office of Personnel Management website, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, Be younger than 40 years of age at the time of hire (unless qualified for an age waiver based on military or federal civilian law enforcement experience), Have lived in the US for three of the last five years, unless qualified for a military exception, While not required, it is recommended that candidates possess a. There is no specific type of degree you should get, but many agents et a degree in criminal justice. The chase was over. The process begins with an online application that will ask questions about professional history, physical and mental qualifications, and prohibitive factors. Border patrol agents typically patrol international land borders and points of entry to apprehend undocumented aliens and smugglers of aliens, while CBP officers focus on facilitating the flow of legitimate trade and travel, determining the admissibility of individuals into the US, and preventing the illegal entry of individuals and prohibited goods. The cost of attending college is calculated by multiplying the estimated cost by the number of students attending. You have accepted additional cookies. "}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What traits might disqualify a prospective border patrol agent? It must be noted that the agency evaluates applicants for stellar qualifications. New agents must maintain a minimum 70 percent average to pass the program. "}}]}; Discover programs youre interested in and take charge of your education. Border Patrol agents are paid on average $50,000 per year. Consequently, you should engage in some regular cardiovascular exercise and strength training to prepare yourself for the physical demands of these tests and the job itself. The agency is well-known for its high standards and rigorous training. Border Patrol Agents prevent terrorists and terrorist weapons from entering the U.S. by securing our land borders and coastal waters between ports of entry. The challenging curriculum has four components: integrated law, including nationality and immigration laws; physical training, which prepares trainees for the timed running and confidence tests; firearms instruction, which involves range practice sessions and classroom instruction on a wide array of topics (like firearms safety, survival shooting, and instinctive reaction shooting); and driving, even if trainees already possess valid licenses. Border services officers (BSO) safeguard Canada's security and prosperity by ensuring the free flow of admissible people and goods, while supporting national security and public safety priorities.They work at 1,100 points of service across the country, including land borders, international airports, marine terminals, rail ports, and postal facilities, to enforce laws and regulations that touch . Take and pass a series of physical fitness tests. Border Patrol Agents sit squarely on the front lines, guarding our country from illegal activity while providing aid to those in need. You must pass a criminal background check. Residency Requirement: CBP has a residency requirement that applies to all applicants not currently employed by CBP. Its about blending this knowledge with the skill and intuition of our officers to make informed, swift decisions. You can also view a version of the video with audio description. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"US Customs and Border Protection may disqualify candidates who have been arrested, use alcohol excessively, have been dismissed from previous employment, and have financial problems. The next step comes after you have already sent your application. Border patrol agents protect U.S. borders by intercepting illegal immigrants who attempt to enter through the country illegally, as well as by intercepting drugs and illegal weapons. You can see review a practice test here. The academy training culminates in tests that predict the candidates' performance under stressful, arduous situations. Create a free account with Comparably and anonymously compare your compensation and culture. We encourage you to perform your own independent Furthermore, it upholds the Customs and Border Protection agencys mission to protect the public and enforce the law. Valid driver's license. We also offer: Our officers work at 140 ports around the UK. Not be a convicted criminal. The medical requirements for US border patrol agents include clear eyesight (20/20 corrected distance vision; at least 20/100, without correction); hearing in both ears without the use of hearing aids; and the absence of any impairments and illnesses that can be detrimental to the discharge of duties, and which can endanger the work environment. Border Patrol Jobs in Texas. Border Patrol agents benefit from a variety of federal employee benefits, including excellent benefits. Security will always be our top priority and, with both data and intelligence, we have a clear picture of those wanting to enter the country. A Career In Guidance Counseling: Helping Others Navigate The Challenges Of Life, Occupational Health Nursing: A Rewarding Career In Protecting Worker Health, Manny Pacquiao: Boxer Businessman And Philanthropist, A Career In Sound Recording: The Technical Skill And Artistic Sensibility You Need To Succeed, Why Journalism Is A Good Career Choice In India, The Highest-Paying Careers To Consider In 2020, The Pros And Cons Of A Career As A Computer Graphic Programmer, Why A Career In Web Development Might Be Right For You, Obstetrics: A Rewarding And Challenging Career, How To Find Out Your Federal Career Wages, 5 Reasons To Use CareerBuilder For Your Job Search. Becoming a Border Patrol Agent starts with meeting certain basic criteria. Questions will measure candidates' ability to make educated guesses, evaluate if-then statements, and reach valid conclusions. Another important reason for obtaining a degree is in view of a progressive CBP career; there are many opportunities for advancement within the organization. In order to join the Border Patrol with a Grade Level 7 rather than the typical Grade Level 5, an applicant must have had at least one year of experience in law enforcement. You may face some challenges along the way, but the rewards are well worth it. programs we write about. You will then be asked to take a two-part border patrol entrance examination. Border Patrol Agents prevent terrorists and terrorist weapons from entering the U.S. by securing our land borders and coastal waters between ports of entry. Using an introduction to American law, youll learn about six different types of legal theory. Salary for newly appointed GL-7 grade level Border Patrol Agents varies from $52,921 - $83,661 depending upon duty location and work schedule, including overtime. Before a new CBP officer can take the oath of office, they must complete 89 days of training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Georgia. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were approximately 18,000 border patrol agents in the U.S. in 2016. Passing physical and written exams. Border patrol agents are well-respected members of the community and earn a good salary. A bachelors degree is not required for GL-7 border patrol agents who have been through the training program. Make sure you're fully prepared. To date we have been recognised by the Times Top 50 Employers for Women, named a Stonewall Star Performer, and listed by Business In The Community as an inclusive employer for race. All applicants must take an entrance exam administered by the Border Patrol. Agents will be provided training to become proficient with the Spanish language at the academy. What does it take to become a Border Patrol agent? How Much Does a Border Patrol Agent Earn? Complete a structured interview with a board of BPAs, who will evaluate your decision-making skills, interpersonal skills, and maturity level, among other qualifications. The GL-5 level requires at least a year's worth of paid or voluntary experience that demonstrates abilities in making decisions and sound judgment calls, as both a leader and a team member, in fostering collaborative environments and maintaining productive relationships at work, and in learning and abiding by law enforcement policies and procedures. You should speak Spanish. Being a Border Force Officer sometimes puts you in difficult or pressurised situations. A six-week course in European Business Law is the first of three in a series. Your past experience with law enforcement, as well as questions about your past experiences, will be considered in the interview. Clean criminal history 4. In addition to day-to-day responsibilities, you might also be deployed on projects to meet other strategic objectives, such as counter-terrorism or human trafficking. "}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Is basic training a paid opportunity?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. Border patrol agents can learn about some of the best universities for low-cost educations. One officer - Border Patrol agent Jacob Albarado - was off-duty at the time of the shooting. If the applicant does not possess a college degree, they may also satisfy the requirements for some advanced positions in the Border Patrol by serving in law enforcement or the military. Take and pass the CBP Border Patrol Entrance Exam at a location of your choice. Official websites use .gov Bottom Line: if you're not involved in a regular fitness plan, start one now. The requirements needed for each phase in the recruitment process are listed in said sites, with explanations on waivers and accommodations for persons with special cases (like qualifiable candidates with disabilities). Border Patrol agents are the on front lines of our northern and southern borders. National Border Patrol Council:https://bpunion.org/. Border patrol agents receive salaries based on their General Schedule salary scale. Preparing for the recruitment and screening process means, among other things, getting into top physical shape and taking steps to familiarize oneself with the policies, requirements and duties of the agency you wish to work for. As the front line defense against terrorist and criminal acts, agents must display high levels of vigilance and professionalism as they complete their daily tasks, which includes inspectingpeople, vehicles and cargo. Obtain work experience or a bachelor's degree Candidates may qualify for a border patrol position with a high school diploma and at least three years of related work experience in a law or investigative capacity. Border patrol agents must be calm and decisive during dangerous situations. If you're interested in becoming a border patrol agent, you'll need to be under the age of 40, be physically fit, be eligible for Veteran's Preference or have previous federal law enforcement experience. If youre interested in becoming a law enforcement officer, the Border Patrol is a good place to start. As part of this training program, officers will be trained in how to behave appropriately and to emphasize the importance of law enforcement. How much do Border Patrol Agents make? This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. Being a minimum of 21 years of age and a US resident for at least the previous three years. Applicants who have no prior experience may substitute a four-year college degree in any field, obtained from an accredited US academic institution, or from foreign schools recognized by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). The agency wants to make sure that only the most qualified applicants get in. To find out more about working for Border Force, including links to the latest recruitment campaigns and staff testimonies please visit the Home Office Careers website. Our site does not feature every educational option available on the market. Upon successful completion of the written test, the applicant will be placed on a waiting list. While jobs do vary from location to location, border patrol agent jobs have the same core set of responsibilities: Senior border patrol agents are often given additional responsibilities due to their expanded professional experience. in Criminal Justice - Homeland Security & Counterterrorism, and M.S. 3. Many listings are from partners who compensate us, which may influence which programs we write about. Enter all of the information requested in the application. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has seen unprecedented growth in resources and staffing, and in the past ten years has doubled the number of agents in active service. The oral interview is conducted by a panel of three Border Patrol agents and will test the applicants decision-making, interpersonal skills, and emotional maturity. Many listings are from partners who compensate us, which may influence which College majors in criminal justice, law, and sociology are highly regarded as preparation for this field, as is previous military training or law enforcement experience. You can view the current General Schedule pay scale at theUS Office of Personnel Management website. The training to start border patrol agents' jobs begins after the application is accepted. Officers and agents with Customs and Border Protection are currently on the job for 300 days, down from 520 days previously. Make sure you're fully prepared. in Homeland Security and Emergency Management and M.S. Age waivers are available to those with law enforcement or military backgrounds. However, it requires that applicants have at least a year's worth of experience in the law enforcement field. Other required documents must be submitted to the CBP Minneapolis Hiring Center on or before the deadline specified in the job vacancy announcement. A border patrol agent's annual salary is $141,000. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS is using Login.gov to allow you to sign in to your account safely and securely. Our site does not feature every educational option available on the market. Applicants interested in learning how to become border patrol agents must be U.S. citizens or legal residents who have held residency status for at least three years. A: To become a border patrol officer you need to have at least a bachelor degree or an associate degree. in Criminal Justice - Advanced Counterterrorism, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Homeland Security, Possess minimum vision and hearing functionality, Ability to perform strenuous physical activity. An incorrect response could place themselves or their colleagues in danger. Part of the Home Office, we carry out immigration and customs checks at ports (sea, rail and air) across the country. Advance in Your Special Agent Career. Locality and experience are considered in determining federal pay grades. We also offer a guaranteed interview scheme for people with disabilities who meet our minimum selection criteria. The GL-5 entry level position is also available to prospective Border Patrol agents without a college degree or law enforcement experience, but applicants may not be very competitive while in the running for these in-demand jobs. Employees have the opportunity to join our vibrant diversity staff support networks, including Gen (gender), The Network (black Asian and minority ethnic), Spectrum (LGBT+) and Able (disabilities). Foster strong domestic and international partnerships, Work in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to facilitate safety, security and trade, Stay up to date on current developments in the field, Become proficient at all materials and tools required on the job, Ensure that records and reports are accurate, Ensure that procedures to promote compliance with border, trade, and tax legislation are effective, Foster mentorship opportunities with junior employees, Intercept contraband goods; dispose in approved fashion, Ensure that all contraband is documented and disposed of, Assess duties and taxes on routine and complex cases. To become a GL-7 agent, candidates must complete a year of graduate school or have a record of excellent academic achievement. The Border Patrol employs agents at the GL-7 and GL-9 levels. The professionals with U.S. Customs and Border Protection arecharged with preventing terrorists and terrorist weapons from entering the United States, while at the same time enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws. Trainees will be required to pass a final fitness test in order to graduate from the Border Patrol Academy. Acquire the necessary education and/or experience described above. The annual salary range is $49,508 to $78,269 , with up to 25 percent bonuses for overtime. If you are still in high school, you might want to take geography, social studies, and government courses. 2. Vacancies for the US border patrol agent position are announced on the official CBP website, although the actual platform where applications can be lodged may be found at www.USAjobs.gov. The training is rigorous, but it will prepare you for the challenges of the job. During your initial 12-month training course, you will be paid $52,853.00 (plus 15.4% superannuation). Possess and maintain a licence to drive a motor vehicle in Canada. Salaries vary and depend on a range of factors including your location (salaries in London are higher, for . U.S. Border Patrol agent Brendan Lenihan had finally caught up with the group of undocumented migrants he'd been diligently tracking. The courses will take place online, in-residence, and on the job for the following duration: Four weeks of online facilitated training. Successful candidates become bona fide members of the lite force of US border patrol agents when they take their oath of office. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The CBP Border Patrol entrance examination measures logical reasoning using several methods. If a position becomes available the applicant will be contacted, provided a tentative selection package, and required to interview with the Border Patrol panel. You will be on the front line protecting Australia's border, whether it be: processing passengers at an air or seaport clearing cargo at an air or sea port clearing mail at a clearance centre patrolling the Australian coastline in an ABF vessel working at a district office investigating illegal border activity working at a detention centre The scales for border patrol agents are GL-7, GL-9, GS-11, and GS-12. The 20 best online courses for border patrol agents available through Udemy, Coursera, EDX, and Ed2go will help you advance in your career. The average border patrol agent makes around $60,000 per year, with some agents making much more. That means we patrol the UK coastline, alert security services to people of interest, and gather intelligence. News stories, speeches, letters and notices, Reports, analysis and official statistics, Data, Freedom of Information releases and corporate reports. Some candidates also have a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, homeland security . The salary trajectory of a Border Patrol Agent ranges between locations and employers. Police cars and motorcycles are now being used. Exciting career opportunities at the Canada Border Services Agency The Officer Trainee Developmental Program selection process is now closed. Most BPA salaries on theUSAJOBS websiterange from between $41,000 to $90,000 per year. Being a Border Patrol Agent makes you a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) profession. By the 1990s, all BPAs wore uniforms and horses. Also, candidates with certain medical conditions may be disqualified. After passing the probationary period which usually lasts 12 months, they are given permanent federal appointments. "}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What type of schedule does a border patrol agent typically work? (The codes are assigned by the Office of Personnel Management, which oversees federal staffing.). Keep in mind that your work is likely to take place in hot, desert climates that will test your physical endurance. Maximum age of 39. Those who want to be this positions leader must have patience, strong interpersonal skills, and a strong understanding of security and law enforcement. After completing a 117-day training course, they must pass a rigorous test to be accepted as a Border Patrol Agent. The minimum educational requirement for anyone wishing to train as a border patrol agent is a high school diploma, although a bachelor's degree is preferred. Be hired as an ICE agent. While duties do vary from location to location, senior employees should be comfortable with the following skills on a regular basis: Table data taken from 2014 BLS (http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes333051.htm), wiley.com/terms-of-use" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="Terms of Use">Terms of Use. Some requirements can be waived for people with a background in law enforcement or the military. The first goal that you have is to do well on the CBP written test. If you meet the requirements, start your application now. Click Share This Page button to display social media links. 3. CriminalJusticeDegreeSchools.com is an advertising-supported site. The application process includes a criminal background check, a drug test, and a drivers license check. Border patrol jobs in Texas entail preventing illegal aliens, as well as drugs and goods, from crossing the border with Mexico into the United States. In order to become a Border Patrol agent, you must be a US citizen younger than 40 years old at the time of appointment. Language Proficiency: Border Patrol work requires the ability to speak and read Spanish, as well as English. If you already speak Spanish (including the grammar rules), you can decline the artificial language part of the course. For recruits without Spanish fluency, an additional 200 hours of Spanish language instruction is also required. Well send you a link to a feedback form. If you are interested in working as a US Border Patrol agent, and you think you are well-suited for a career that requires vigilance, integrity, and professionalism at all times, its best to start preparing early for the recruitment process.