Understand Eligibility Criteria
The CIA’s Special Activities Division (SAD) is the agency’s premier counterterrorism, spying and paramilitary force. The SAD is renowned for its expertise in classified operations and striking against America’s enemies. In order to join the SAD you must meet the agency’s eligibility criteria. You must be a United States citizen, have a valid and unexpired passport, have compatible special skills, and have an exemplary record of accomplishment, both professionally and personally.
Stay Physically Fit
In order to join the SAD, you must meet the agency’s physical fitness standards. These include the ability to run long distances, swim long distances, climb, carry heavy loads, and pass a field medical exam. The physical fitness test consists of a two-mile run, a two-mile swim, a two-mile ruck, a shuttle run, push-ups, pull-ups and sit-ups. It is important to stay physically fit before attempting to join the SAD.
Acquire Relevant Education
A great deal of education and technical knowledge is also required to join the SAD. Candidates need to have a degree in specialized fields such as engineering, computer science, and foreign language. Additionally, a background in the military is beneficial and experience in special operations activities is also an advantage.
Pass Extensive Background Check
To be considered for the Special Activities Division, the CIA will require candidates to pass an extensive background check. This includes a review of one’s financial records, personal relationships, educational background and employment history. The background check is extremely stringent and is designed to weed out anyone with ties to a foreign government or anyone with a criminal past.
Complete CIA Training
Once the eligibility criteria, physical fitness standards and background check requirements have been met, the next step is to complete the CIA’s training program. This is a grueling process that requires completion of a specialized tactical combat training program, weapons proficiency training and clandestine skills training. The training program will prepare you to serve as an operator in the SAD and deal with extremist threats.
Apply And Interview
Once the initial requirements have been met and the training program completed, the next step is to apply for a position with the SAD. The application involves submitting resumes and writing essays that describe the individual’s qualifications. Once the application is submitted, the next step is to go through the interviewing process with several senior agency personnel.
Serve In Specialized roles
Once a candidate has been accepted into the SAD, they will be assigned a specific role such as intelligence officer, counterintelligence officer, analyst, or operations officer. The roles are highly specialized and require extensive knowledge and experience. The Special Activities Division is one of the most secretive and elite divisions of the CIA and requires a commitment to the ideals of service and dedication to country.
Practice Computer Security
Computer security is an important tool in the operations of the Special Activities Division. It involves using encryption and other security measures to protect critical data from hostile forces. A member of the SAD must have an understanding of computer security and be able to use it to protect confidential information.
Gain Expertise In Surveillance
Surveillance is another important skill for a member of the SAD to possess. Surveillance involves tracking the movements of a target or gathering intelligence on a location or group. This requires extensive knowledge of the methods and tactics used in intelligence gathering and is an invaluable skill for a member of the Special Activities Division.
Understand Human Intelligence
Finally, a member of the SAD must have an understanding of human intelligence. This involves gaining information through the use of agents, informants, and contacts. Human intelligence is a key tool in the SAD’s covert operations and requires a thorough understanding of its methods and techniques.
