Education · 1 of 5
The path
A degree, then a hiring process of 12 to 18 months. Quebec has its own route: tap Quebec route to add it.
- 1
High school diploma
Grade 12
Languages, history and writing help most. Stay away from illegal drugs: the agency rejects anyone who used them in the year before applying.
- 2
Bachelor's degree
4 years
Linguistics, translation, languages, international relations and political science all fit. An equivalent mix of education and experience is also accepted.
- 3
Apply
Weeks
A cover letter and a résumé covering the last 10 years. Students graduating within 12 months may apply.
- 4
Tests, interviews and clearance
12 to 18 months
Some tests are in person in Ottawa, Montréal, Toronto, Kingston, Calgary, Vancouver or Halifax. Then the background check, a polygraph and a psychological assessment.
- 5
Training on the job
Ongoing
You learn the tools and the technology from colleagues, with training and mentoring.