State Department Overhauls Foreign Service Exam with 'America First' Focus

The U.S. State Department has introduced significant changes to the Foreign Service entrance exam, emphasizing the removal of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) questions. This shift aligns with the Trump administration's goal to reshape the diplomatic corps, recruiting 'patriotic Americans' while focusing on U.S. history, foreign policy concepts, and logical reasoning. The changes come after nearly 250 Foreign Service employees were dismissed last year, raising concerns about the potential politicization of U.S. diplomacy. Critics argue that the new exam format may lead to a less experienced diplomatic workforce, while supporters claim it modernizes the service to defend national interests effectively.

Key Details: • New exam focuses on U.S. history and foreign policy, excluding DEI-related questions. • Recruitment efforts follow the dismissal of nearly 250 Foreign Service staff last year. • Concerns raised about the potential politicization of the diplomatic corps. • The revamped orientation program includes mandatory readings from historical figures. • State Department encourages applications from 'patriotic Americans'.