Hiring Process
Step 1 – Apply by Internet: You must register for the written test for the Border Patrol Agent position during the open period. You must register for the written test online on the Internet at https://staffing.opm.gov/BPA. The website address is available 24 hours per day, 7 days a week during the open period. Based on your responses to the questions, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) will determine if you meet the basic qualifications for the BPA position. If you meet the minimum qualifications, you will be scheduled for the written test.
 
Step 2 – Written Test: As soon as you have registered and been scheduled for the written test, you will be able to print your test admission notice which will contain the date, location and time for the written test. CBP provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities on a case-by-case basis. If a reasonable accommodation is needed for any part of the registration and hiring process, applicants should contact the office scheduling them for that portion of the process. Test Preparation: We believe that proper test preparation is essential for the successful candidate and suggest that you take time to carefully read the study guide. If you want to get a head start, you may download the guide from our website at: http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/careers/study_guides/.
 
Step 3 – Selection Process: If you pass the written test, your name will be placed on an inventory. Note: The Minneapolis Hiring Center frequently uses email to communicate with applicants; therefore, it is important to ensure that your e-mail address and all other contact information are kept current. We also encourage applicants to check their email frequently (e.g., once a week) during the pre-employment process. If your email, mailing address or phone number(s) change, please notify the Minneapolis Hiring Center at deu.bpa.nhc@dhs.gov.
 
Step 4 – Oral Hiring Board: The Oral Hiring Board (OHB) is a structured interview conducted by three Border Patrol Agents.
 
Step 5 – Pre-Employment Process: In addition to completing step 4, you must also undergo and successfully complete a drug test, medical examination, fitness test, background investigation, and there is a high probability that you will be subject to a polygraph examination. In addition, you will be required to pass a Physical Fitness Test (PFT2) 30 days prior to attending the Border Patrol Academy.
 
For additional information on the pre-employment processes in Steps 1-5, please visit: http://cbp.gov/xp/cgov/careers/customs_careers/border_careers/application_process/
The U.S. Border Patrol is hiring agents to work for the nation's largest single border agency, protecting the American people from terrorism, drug smuggling and illegal entry to our country.
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