2025 Foreign Service Orientation Class Dates

Foreign Service Orientation, formerly A-100, is the first step for new Foreign Service Officers (FSOs) and Foreign Service Specialists (FSS) joining the U.S. Department of State. This initial training prepares diplomats for their roles in representing American interests abroad.

2025 Tentative Orientation Class Schedule

The U.S. Department of State has released the following tentative schedule for 2025 Foreign Service orientation classes:

  1. January 13, 2025 – Generalist/Specialist combined FSO/FSS
  2. April 7, 2025 – Generalist/Specialist combined FSO/FSS
  3. June 2, 2025 – LNA (Consular Fellows)
  4. June 30, 2025 – Generalist/Specialist combined FSO/FSS
  5. September 22, 2025 – Generalist/Specialist combined FSO/FSS

All classes are anticipated to be conducted in a virtual/in-person hybrid environment.

Key Information for Aspiring Foreign Service Officers

Tentative Nature of Dates

  • These dates are for planning purposes only and are subject to change.
  • The Department of State has not yet secured hiring authority for these classes.

Class Composition

  • No guarantee exists for specific career tracks (cones) or specialties in particular classes.
  • Class composition depends on the current needs of the Foreign Service.

Application and Invitation Process

  • Invitations are typically extended 6 to 12 weeks before the anticipated class date.
  • The Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) is the first step in the application process.
  • Candidates must pass several stages, including the Qualifications Evaluation Panel (QEP) and Oral Assessment.

Thanks for reading! Want to receive guidance on joining the Foreign Service, including recommended preparation resources? Join a community of people interested in the FS and going through the application process. Enter your email now and join us.

Scroll to Top
Daily, actionable advice

Subscribe for guidance

You will also receive updates when new posts are published on pFS.

Tweet
Share
Share
Reddit
Pocket
Email