The FBI fitness test is designed to assess whether candidates have the minimum level of physical fitness required to complete FBI Special Agent training and work as an FBI Special Agent. The test consists of four elements that measure muscular, aerobic, and anaerobic endurance. Passing the FBI fitness test is a crucial part of the FBI Special Agent application process.
What are the four elements of the FBI fitness test?
The FBI fitness test consists of the following four elements:
- Maximum push-ups in 1 minute
- Maximum sit-ups in 1 minute
- 300 meter sprint
- 1.5 mile run
Candidates must perform each element according to strict standards and minimum passing requirements. The first two tests, push-ups and sit-ups, assess muscular endurance. The 300 meter sprint evaluates anaerobic power, speed, and agility. The 1.5 mile run measures aerobic capacity and endurance.
What are the minimum passing requirements for each test element?
The minimum passing requirements for each of the four test elements are:
| Test Element | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Maximum Push-Ups (1 minute) | 30 |
| Maximum Sit-Ups (1 minute) | 38 |
| 300 Meter Sprint | under 59 seconds |
| 1.5 Mile Run | under 12 minutes and 48 seconds |
Candidates must meet or exceed each of these minimum passing standards in order to pass the FBI fitness test.
What is the scoring for the push-up and sit-up tests?
The push-up and sit-up tests are scored based on the maximum number of repetitions completed in 1 minute. Here are the specific scoring guidelines:
Push-Up Scoring
| Number of Push-Ups | Score |
|---|---|
| 0-29 | Fail |
| 30 | Pass |
| 31-40 | Good |
| 41-49 | Excellent |
| 50+ | Outstanding |
Sit-Up Scoring
| Number of Sit-ups | Score |
|---|---|
| 0-37 | Fail |
| 38 | Pass |
| 39-50 | Good |
| 51-59 | Excellent |
| 60+ | Outstanding |
While only a minimum of 30 push-ups and 38 sit-ups are required to pass, candidates who can complete more repetitions are scored higher on these portions of the test.
What are the grading criteria for the 300 meter sprint?
For the 300 meter sprint, candidates must complete the distance in under 59 seconds to pass. Scoring is based on the following brackets:
| 300 Meter Time | Score |
|---|---|
| 59.0 seconds or more | Fail |
| 51.0-58.9 seconds | Poor |
| 48.0-50.9 seconds | Fair |
| 45.0-47.9 seconds | Good |
| 42.0-44.9 seconds | Very Good |
| Under 42 seconds | Excellent |
Candidates with sprint times under 45 seconds demonstrate above average anaerobic capabilities required for FBI Special Agents.
How is the 1.5 mile run scored?
To pass the 1.5 mile run portion, candidates must complete the distance in under 12 minutes and 48 seconds. The scoring scale is:
| 1.5 Mile Run Time | Score |
|---|---|
| Over 12:48 | Fail |
| 12:00-12:48 | Poor |
| 11:30-11:59 | Fair |
| 10:30-11:29 | Good |
| 10:00-10:29 | Very Good |
| Under 10:00 | Excellent |
Run times under 11 minutes demonstrate an above average level of aerobic fitness expected for Special Agents.
Can candidates fail any part of the test and still pass overall?
No, candidates must meet the minimum passing standard for each of the four test elements in order to pass the FBI fitness test. Even if a candidate scores exceptionally well on some portions, failing any part of the test results in an overall failure.
How fit do candidates need to be to pass the FBI fitness test?
Passing the FBI fitness test requires a relatively high level of physical fitness. Some tips for preparing include:
- Candidates should be able to complete 30-50 push-ups and 38-60 sit-ups in one minute.
- A solid training goal for the 300 meter sprint is under 50 seconds.
- Aim to work up to running 1.5 miles at a pace under 10 minutes per mile.
- Include cardio like running, swimming, or biking in your workouts several times a week.
- Do strength training 2-3 times per week working major muscle groups.
- Increase training intensity gradually over several months leading up to the test.
With consistent physical training, most candidates can develop the endurance and stamina required to pass the FBI fitness test.
What happens if a candidate fails the FBI fitness test?
If a candidate fails any part of the FBI fitness test, they are immediately removed from consideration for Special Agent positions. There is no opportunity to re-take the test or try again later in the hiring process.
Candidates who fail are typically encouraged to continue building their physical fitness, gain more work experience, and re-apply in the future. The FBI does allow people to retake the entire Special Agent application process after a waiting period.
Does the FBI allow any accommodations for disabilities on the fitness test?
Since physical fitness standards are crucial job requirements for FBI Special Agents, there are strict policies regarding accommodations for disabilities. Candidates who require accommodations for a disability must submit official medical documentation during the registration process.
Accommodations that alter the standard or essential functions of any fitness test component are not permitted. However, some possible accommodations might include the use of an inhaler or minor modifications to certain equipment when medically necessary.
Can candidates practice for the FBI fitness test?
Yes, the FBI allows and encourages candidates to practice the fitness test elements prior to the official testing dates. Practicing helps ensure candidates are prepared to meet the minimum passing standards.
Many gym facilities have equipment to practice the push-up, sit-up, and sprint portions of the test. To train for the 1.5 mile run, candidates will need access to a track or other measured running course. Candidates should practice all test elements under timed conditions.
What should you wear for the FBI physical fitness test?
Candidates should wear athletic clothing appropriate for strenuous exercise. This includes:
- T-shirt or tank top
- Shorts or athletic pants
- Socks
- Athletic shoes appropriate for sprinting and running
Avoid clothing that restricts movement. Hats and jewelry are also prohibited during testing for safety reasons.
Can candidates eat or drink before the FBI fitness test?
Candidates can eat a light meal and drink water before testing. However, it is best to allow 1-2 hours for food to digest to avoid cramps or nausea during the test. Avoid heavy or greasy foods that take longer to digest.
Candidates can and should hydrate with water during breaks between each test element. Dehydration can negatively impact physical performance.
What is the atmosphere like during the FBI physical fitness test?
Candidates complete the FBI fitness test at an official FBI testing facility with other applicants and proctors present. The atmosphere is professional, serious, and focused on successfully completing each element according to FBI standards.
While candidates encourage and cheer for each other, the test administrators maintain order and enforce rules prohibiting any behavior that could distract others.
Candidates who do not follow instructions or conduct themselves appropriately during testing may be disqualified regardless of their physical scores.
Conclusion
The FBI fitness test challenges candidates with a comprehensive assessment of muscular power, anaerobic capacity, and aerobic endurance. While the standards are high, adequate preparation and training allows most candidates to successfully pass each test component and continue pursuing their goal of becoming an FBI Special Agent.
With the proper mindset and dedication to physical training, the FBI fitness test is an obstacle candidates can overcome on their journey to a rewarding career serving their country.