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The FBI Phase 1 Test is one of the most important early assessments in the FBI Special Agent selection process.

If you apply to become an FBI Special Agent and meet the initial screening criteria, you may be invited to complete the Phase I test. This assessment is used to evaluate whether you have the reasoning ability, judgment, behavioral consistency, and work-related preferences needed for the Special Agent role.

The FBI Phase 1 Test commonly includes five timed assessments:

  • Logic-Based Reasoning
  • Figural Reasoning
  • Personality Assessment
  • Preferences and Interests
  • Situational Judgment

This guide explains what the FBI Phase 1 Test is, what each section measures, how to prepare, what mistakes to avoid, and how to practice with FBI-style sample questions.

The practice questions on this page are not official FBI, DOJ, USAJOBS, OPM, or federal agency questions. They are practice-style examples designed to help you understand common FBI Phase 1 assessment skills.

The practice questions and guidance on this page are original educational materials. They are not official U.S. government, agency, USAJOBS, OPM, or assessment-vendor questions, and they do not reproduce a confidential exam, scoring key, or live test interface. Always follow your official job announcement and candidate invitation.

What Is the FBI Phase 1 Test?

The FBI Phase 1 Test is a computerized assessment used during the FBI Special Agent application and evaluation process.

It is designed to evaluate critical thinking, reasoning, judgment, personality traits, preferences, and work-related fit for the Special Agent position.

The test is taken in a proctored environment and is commonly described by FBIJOBS as an approximately three-hour exam, including check-in and check-out procedures.

The FBI Phase 1 Test is not a general civil service exam.

It is a role-specific assessment for Special Agent applicants.

Where the FBI Phase 1 Test Fits in the Hiring Process

The FBI Special Agent selection process can vary by announcement and applicant status, but a simplified path may include:

  1. Review the Special Agent eligibility requirements.
  2. Submit the Special Agent application.
  3. Complete initial screening.
  4. Receive an invitation to take the Phase I test if eligible.
  5. Schedule and complete the Phase I test within the required window.
  6. Continue to Phase II if you pass and remain eligible.
  7. Complete written assessment and structured interview.
  8. Complete physical fitness test requirements.
  9. Complete conditional appointment steps.
  10. Complete background investigation.
  11. Complete medical review.
  12. Attend FBI Academy training if selected.

The exact process, timing, and requirements can change.

Always follow FBIJOBS, your candidate portal, and official FBI communications.

Who Takes the FBI Phase 1 Test?

The FBI Phase 1 Test is for candidates applying to become FBI Special Agents.

You may need to take the Phase I test if you apply for a position described as:

  • FBI Special Agent;
  • FBI Criminal Investigator;
  • FBI 1811 position;
  • Special Agent candidate;
  • FBI field agent applicant.

This test is not the same as assessments used for all FBI roles.

FBI Intelligence Analyst, professional staff, technical, linguist, and support roles may use different assessments or selection processes.

FBI Special Agent Basic Eligibility

FBI Special Agent requirements can vary and should always be confirmed through FBIJOBS.

Common eligibility requirements may include:

  • U.S. citizenship;
  • meeting age requirements;
  • holding a valid driver’s license;
  • meeting education and experience requirements;
  • availability for assignment based on FBI needs;
  • ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance;
  • passing the FBI Physical Fitness Test;
  • passing medical review;
  • passing a background investigation;
  • complying with FBI drug policy;
  • meeting suitability and employment standards.

Do not rely only on general summaries.

Read the official FBI Special Agent announcement and eligibility pages before applying.

FBI Phase 1 Test Format

The FBI Phase 1 Test includes five major assessments.

1. Logic-Based Reasoning

This section tests your ability to analyze written information and determine whether a conclusion follows from the facts.

It may include:

  • deductive reasoning;
  • all, some, none statements;
  • if-then rules;
  • must-be-true conclusions;
  • unsupported conclusions;
  • rule application;
  • critical thinking;
  • reading accuracy.

The key rule is to use only the information provided.

Do not add outside assumptions.

2. Figural Reasoning

This section tests your ability to identify patterns in abstract shapes.

It may include:

  • shape sequences;
  • visual patterns;
  • rotations;
  • transformations;
  • missing figures;
  • symbol logic;
  • spatial reasoning;
  • abstract rule detection.

Figural reasoning is often difficult for candidates who have not practiced nonverbal pattern questions.

3. Personality Assessment

This section may evaluate behavioral traits and tendencies relevant to FBI Special Agent work.

It may involve statements about:

  • integrity;
  • teamwork;
  • persistence;
  • emotional control;
  • adaptability;
  • responsibility;
  • attention to detail;
  • stress tolerance;
  • leadership;
  • reliability.

Answer honestly and consistently.

Trying to fake a perfect personality profile can create contradictions.

4. Preferences and Interests

This section may evaluate whether your work preferences align with the Special Agent role.

It may involve choices or statements related to:

  • investigative work;
  • law enforcement duties;
  • public service;
  • structure and procedure;
  • teamwork;
  • field work;
  • problem-solving;
  • travel;
  • challenging assignments;
  • long-term career motivation.

The goal is to assess work fit.

5. Situational Judgment

This section presents job-related scenarios and asks you to choose the most appropriate response.

It may test:

  • judgment;
  • ethics;
  • communication;
  • teamwork;
  • conflict handling;
  • accountability;
  • decision-making;
  • respect for rules;
  • public safety awareness;
  • professionalism.

Strong answers usually reflect FBI values, lawful conduct, procedure-following, integrity, and sound judgment.

FBI Phase 1 Logic-Based Reasoning Practice

The following questions are practice-style examples.

They are not official FBI questions.

Use only the information provided in each question.

Question 1

All agents assigned to Unit A completed cybercrime training. Agent Rivera is assigned to Unit A.

Which conclusion must be true?

A. Agent Rivera completed cybercrime training. B. Agent Rivera supervises Unit A. C. Everyone who completed cybercrime training is assigned to Unit A. D. Agent Rivera failed cybercrime training.

Correct answer: A

Explanation: The rule states that all agents assigned to Unit A completed cybercrime training. Since Rivera is assigned to Unit A, Rivera completed the training.

Question 2

If a report is incomplete, it must be returned for correction. Report 42 was not returned for correction.

Which conclusion is best supported?

A. Report 42 was incomplete. B. Report 42 was not incomplete according to the rule. C. Report 42 was never reviewed. D. Every report is returned for correction.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: If all incomplete reports are returned and Report 42 was not returned, then Report 42 was not incomplete under this rule.

Question 3

Only authorized personnel may access the evidence room. Jordan accessed the evidence room.

Which conclusion must be true?

A. Jordan is authorized personnel. B. Jordan is not authorized. C. The evidence room is public. D. Anyone may access the evidence room.

Correct answer: A

Explanation: If only authorized personnel may access the room, someone who accessed it must be authorized.

Question 4

No applicant who fails the background investigation can receive final appointment. Taylor failed the background investigation.

Which conclusion must be true?

A. Taylor can receive final appointment. B. Taylor cannot receive final appointment. C. Taylor passed every other stage. D. Taylor is already an FBI employee.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: The rule states that failing the background investigation prevents final appointment.

Question 5

All members of Team Blue attended the briefing. Some members of Team Blue also attended surveillance training.

Which statement must be true?

A. Every member of Team Blue attended the briefing. B. Every member of Team Blue attended surveillance training. C. No member of Team Blue attended surveillance training. D. The briefing was canceled.

Correct answer: A

Explanation: The first statement directly says all Team Blue members attended the briefing.

Question 6

If a vehicle is not inspected, it cannot be used for field duty. Vehicle 18 was used for field duty.

Which conclusion must be true?

A. Vehicle 18 was not inspected. B. Vehicle 18 was inspected. C. Vehicle 18 was damaged. D. Vehicle 18 was never assigned.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: If uninspected vehicles cannot be used, then a vehicle that was used must have been inspected.

Question 7

All agents who complete advanced interview training receive certification. Agent Kim did not receive certification.

Which conclusion must be true?

A. Agent Kim completed advanced interview training. B. Agent Kim did not complete advanced interview training. C. Certification is optional. D. Agent Kim supervises the training.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: If completing the training leads to certification, someone who did not receive certification did not complete the training.

Question 8

Some analysts assigned to Case Group C have financial crime experience. All analysts with financial crime experience completed fraud investigation training.

Which conclusion must be true?

A. Some analysts assigned to Case Group C completed fraud investigation training. B. All analysts in Case Group C have financial crime experience. C. No analysts in Case Group C completed training. D. Only analysts in Case Group C have financial crime experience.

Correct answer: A

Explanation: Some Case Group C analysts have financial crime experience, and all analysts with that experience completed fraud investigation training. Therefore, some Case Group C analysts completed that training.

Question 9

A statement should be treated as fact only if it is supported by verified information. Statement K is supported only by rumor.

Which conclusion follows?

A. Statement K should be treated as fact. B. Statement K should not be treated as fact. C. Statement K has verified support. D. Statement K is automatically true.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: Rumor is not verified information, so Statement K should not be treated as fact.

Question 10

All applicants who proceed to Phase II passed Phase I. Morgan did not pass Phase I.

Which conclusion must be true?

A. Morgan proceeded to Phase II. B. Morgan did not proceed to Phase II. C. Morgan completed the academy. D. Phase I is optional.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: If proceeding to Phase II requires passing Phase I, someone who did not pass Phase I cannot proceed.

FBI Phase 1 Figural Reasoning Practice

These are text-based versions of figural reasoning logic. Real figural reasoning questions are visual.

Question 11

A shape sequence follows this pattern:

Circle, square, triangle, circle, square, ?

What comes next?

A. Circle B. Square C. Triangle D. Star

Correct answer: C

Explanation: The pattern repeats: circle, square, triangle.

Question 12

A pattern rotates 90 degrees clockwise each step:

Up arrow, right arrow, down arrow, left arrow, ?

What comes next?

A. Up arrow B. Right arrow C. Down arrow D. Left arrow

Correct answer: A

Explanation: After left, a 90-degree clockwise rotation returns the arrow to up.

Question 13

A pattern alternates between filled and empty shapes:

Filled circle, empty circle, filled square, empty square, filled triangle, ?

What comes next?

A. Empty triangle B. Filled triangle C. Empty circle D. Filled square

Correct answer: A

Explanation: Each shape appears filled first, then empty.

Question 14

A sequence adds one line each step:

One line, two lines, three lines, four lines, ?

What comes next?

A. Two lines B. Three lines C. Five lines D. Six lines

Correct answer: C

Explanation: The number of lines increases by one each step.

Question 15

A pattern changes shape but keeps the dot in the upper-right corner:

Square with upper-right dot, circle with upper-right dot, triangle with upper-right dot, ?

Which option follows the rule?

A. Rectangle with upper-right dot B. Rectangle with lower-left dot C. Rectangle with no dot D. Rectangle with center dot

Correct answer: A

Explanation: The shape changes, but the dot remains in the upper-right corner.

Question 16

A pattern alternates direction:

Left arrow, right arrow, left arrow, right arrow, ?

What comes next?

A. Left arrow B. Right arrow C. Up arrow D. Down arrow

Correct answer: A

Explanation: The pattern alternates left, right.

Question 17

A pattern follows this rule:

The shape stays the same, but the dot moves clockwise from top to right to bottom to left.

If the dot is currently on the left, where will it move next?

A. Top B. Right C. Bottom D. Center

Correct answer: A

Explanation: The sequence is top, right, bottom, left, then back to top.

Question 18

A sequence is:

Small square, medium square, large square, small square, medium square, ?

What comes next?

A. Small square B. Medium square C. Large square D. Circle

Correct answer: C

Explanation: The size pattern repeats: small, medium, large.

Question 19

A visual series has this rule:

The number of black circles increases by one, while the number of white circles decreases by one.

Which answer best follows the rule?

A. More black circles and fewer white circles than the previous figure B. Fewer black circles and more white circles than the previous figure C. Same number of black and white circles D. No circles

Correct answer: A

Explanation: The rule states that black increases while white decreases.

Question 20

A figure is mirrored horizontally each step.

If the current figure has a dot on the left side, where will the dot appear after the next mirror?

A. Right side B. Left side C. Center D. Top

Correct answer: A

Explanation: A horizontal mirror flips left and right.

FBI Phase 1 Situational Judgment Practice

These questions are practice-style examples of judgment themes.

They are not official FBI questions.

Question 21

You discover that a report you submitted contains an error. What is the best response?

A. Ignore it unless someone notices. B. Correct or report the error according to procedure. C. Blame another person. D. Delete the report without authorization.

Best answer: B

Explanation: Integrity and accountability require correcting or reporting errors through the proper process.

Question 22

A colleague asks you to skip a required verification step because the team is busy. What should you do?

A. Skip it to save time. B. Complete the required step or seek guidance if priorities conflict. C. Guess the result. D. Ask an unauthorized person to decide.

Best answer: B

Explanation: Required procedures should not be skipped because of time pressure.

Question 23

You receive information that may be important, but you are not sure whether it is verified. What is the best response?

A. Treat it as confirmed fact immediately. B. Verify the information through the proper channel before relying on it as fact. C. Share it widely with unauthorized people. D. Ignore it completely.

Best answer: B

Explanation: Good investigative judgment requires verification and proper information handling.

Question 24

A member of the public is frustrated and confrontational but not physically threatening. What is the best response?

A. Escalate the argument. B. Remain calm, communicate professionally, and follow procedure. C. Make promises outside your authority. D. Ignore all safety considerations.

Best answer: B

Explanation: Professional communication and procedure-based action are strong responses.

Question 25

You are given two urgent assignments and cannot complete both at once. What should you do?

A. Choose randomly. B. Clarify priorities with the appropriate supervisor. C. Ignore one assignment. D. Complete only the easier assignment.

Best answer: B

Explanation: Clarifying priorities is more professional than guessing or ignoring work.

Question 26

You notice confidential information left visible in an unsecured area. What should you do?

A. Take a picture and send it to friends. B. Secure or report the information according to procedure. C. Ignore it. D. Discuss it with unauthorized people.

Best answer: B

Explanation: Sensitive information must be handled appropriately.

Question 27

A team member makes a mistake during a task. What is the strongest response?

A. Publicly embarrass the team member. B. Help address the issue through the proper process and focus on correcting the problem. C. Ignore the mistake. D. Blame the team member for everything.

Best answer: B

Explanation: Good judgment combines accountability, teamwork, and proper procedure.

Question 28

You are unsure how to apply a rule in a specific situation. What is the best response?

A. Guess and act quickly. B. Follow available guidance or ask the proper authority for clarification. C. Ignore the rule. D. Ask someone unauthorized.

Best answer: B

Explanation: When uncertain, follow procedure and seek proper guidance.

Question 29

You disagree with lawful feedback from a supervisor. What is the best response?

A. Become defensive and refuse to listen. B. Listen professionally, ask clarifying questions if needed, and use the feedback to improve. C. Ignore the supervisor. D. Complain publicly.

Best answer: B

Explanation: Professional maturity includes receiving feedback constructively.

Question 30

A task is repetitive but requires accuracy. What is the best strategy?

A. Rush because the task is repetitive. B. Use a consistent method to maintain focus and accuracy. C. Stop checking details. D. Let someone unauthorized complete it.

Best answer: B

Explanation: FBI work can require sustained attention even during repetitive tasks.

FBI Phase 1 Personality and Preferences Practice

These are practice-style examples of behavioral and preference themes.

They are not official FBI questions and do not have a single universal “correct” answer. The key is to answer honestly and consistently.

Question 31

“I take responsibility when I make a mistake.”

A. Strongly disagree B. Disagree C. Neutral D. Agree E. Strongly agree

Suggested response range: D or E, if accurate.

Explanation: This item reflects accountability and integrity.

Question 32

“I prefer work that requires solving complex problems.”

A. Strongly disagree B. Disagree C. Neutral D. Agree E. Strongly agree

Suggested response range: D or E, if accurate.

Explanation: Special Agent work often involves complex problem-solving and investigation.

Question 33

“I ignore rules when they slow me down.”

A. Strongly disagree B. Disagree C. Neutral D. Agree E. Strongly agree

Suggested response range: A or B, if accurate.

Explanation: Federal law enforcement work requires adherence to rules, policy, and legal procedures.

Question 34

“I can stay calm when others are upset.”

A. Strongly disagree B. Disagree C. Neutral D. Agree E. Strongly agree

Suggested response range: D or E, if accurate.

Explanation: Emotional control is important in investigative and public-facing work.

Question 35

“I enjoy work that requires attention to small details.”

A. Strongly disagree B. Disagree C. Neutral D. Agree E. Strongly agree

Suggested response range: D or E, if accurate.

Explanation: Attention to detail is relevant to reports, evidence, interviews, investigations, and procedures.

FBI Phase 1 Practice Answer Key

  1. A
  2. B
  3. A
  4. B
  5. A
  6. B
  7. B
  8. A
  9. B
  10. B
  11. C
  12. A
  13. A
  14. C
  15. A
  16. A
  17. A
  18. C
  19. A
  20. A
  21. B
  22. B
  23. B
  24. B
  25. B
  26. B
  27. B
  28. B
  29. B
  30. B
  31. D or E, if accurate
  32. D or E, if accurate
  33. A or B, if accurate
  34. D or E, if accurate
  35. D or E, if accurate

How to Score This FBI Phase 1 Practice Test

Use this practice score guide:

  • 32-35 strong answers: Strong baseline. Move toward full timed FBI Phase 1 simulations.
  • 28-31 strong answers: Good readiness. Review the section where you missed the most questions.
  • 22-27 strong answers: Moderate readiness. Practice logic, figural reasoning, and SJT separately.
  • 15-21 strong answers: Needs improvement. Build accuracy before adding strict time pressure.
  • 14 or fewer strong answers: Start with untimed lessons and explanations before attempting full simulations.

This score is for practice only.

It is not an official FBI score, Phase I score, eligibility decision, hiring result, or passing score.

How to Prepare for the FBI Phase 1 Test

1. Read the Official FBI Testing Overview

Start with FBIJOBS and the official testing overview.

Use official materials to understand:

  • where Phase I fits in the process;
  • how the test is administered;
  • the five assessment sections;
  • scheduling expectations;
  • what comes after Phase I;
  • basic test-day rules.

Third-party practice can help, but official FBI instructions should be your foundation.

For extra timed practice alongside official USAJOBS or agency materials, assessment test preparation may support familiarity with common reasoning formats used in federal screens. Third-party packs are not official employer or publisher materials; confirm the product matches your invitation before buying.

2. Practice Logic-Based Reasoning

Logic-based reasoning is one of the most important sections.

Practice:

  • all statements;
  • some statements;
  • no statements;
  • if-then rules;
  • only statements;
  • must-be-true conclusions;
  • cannot-be-concluded questions;
  • passage-based reasoning;
  • eliminating unsupported conclusions.

The best strategy is to translate each rule into plain language and answer only from the facts given.

For ranked-response or work-style sections, cognitive ability test preparation may also be useful when you need extra drills under time pressure.

3. Practice Figural Reasoning

Figural reasoning is visual and pattern-based.

Practice identifying:

  • shape sequences;
  • rotations;
  • reflections;
  • added or removed elements;
  • changing colors;
  • changing positions;
  • missing figures;
  • symbol patterns;
  • abstract rules.

Do not guess based only on appearance.

Look for one rule at a time.

4. Answer Personality Questions Honestly and Consistently

Personality assessments are not solved like reasoning questions.

Your goal should be to answer honestly and consistently.

Avoid:

  • trying to sound perfect;
  • contradicting yourself;
  • claiming extreme traits that are not true;
  • changing your personality profile from section to section;
  • answering based on what you think the FBI wants instead of your actual behavior.

Integrity and consistency matter.

5. Understand Preferences and Interests

The Preferences and Interests section may evaluate whether your work motivations align with the Special Agent role.

Think honestly about whether you are comfortable with:

  • investigative work;
  • public service;
  • law enforcement responsibilities;
  • following procedures;
  • demanding assignments;
  • teamwork;
  • travel or relocation requirements;
  • high accountability;
  • long-term career commitment.

Do not treat this as a simple “right answer” section.

6. Practice Situational Judgment

Situational judgment questions require professional decision-making.

Strong answers usually show:

  • integrity;
  • accountability;
  • communication;
  • teamwork;
  • lawful conduct;
  • respect for procedure;
  • sound judgment;
  • proper reporting;
  • public safety awareness;
  • professional maturity.

Avoid answers that are reckless, dishonest, aggressive, or outside your authority.

7. Train for a Three-Hour Assessment

The FBI Phase 1 Test is not only about question types.

It also tests focus and endurance.

Practice under realistic conditions:

  • timed sections;
  • no phone;
  • minimal interruptions;
  • sustained concentration;
  • short review periods;
  • mixed question types.

Many candidates perform well in short drills but struggle across a long assessment.

8. Review Every Mistake by Category

After each practice set, classify mistakes:

  • logic rule error;
  • assumption error;
  • all/some/none error;
  • if-then reversal;
  • figural pattern mistake;
  • rotation mistake;
  • SJT judgment issue;
  • personality inconsistency;
  • timing problem;
  • careless error.

Then practice the category you missed.

9. Prepare for Phase II Early

Passing Phase I can lead to Phase II.

Phase II may include written assessment and structured interview components.

Do not wait until after Phase I to start thinking about:

  • writing clearly;
  • giving structured interview answers;
  • explaining your experience;
  • demonstrating FBI core competencies;
  • preparing examples from work, school, military, volunteer, or leadership experience.

Continue with the FBI Phase 2 Test guide for written assessment and interview preparation.

10. Do Not Ignore the Physical Fitness Test

The Special Agent process also includes physical fitness requirements.

FBIJOBS provides physical requirements and Physical Fitness Test information for Special Agent applicants.

Even though the PFT is not part of Phase I, you should begin preparing early.

Common FBI Phase 1 Test Mistakes

Mistake 1: Using Outside Knowledge in Logic Questions

Logic questions are based on the facts provided.

Do not answer based on real-world assumptions.

If the passage does not prove a conclusion, be careful.

Mistake 2: Reversing If-Then Rules

If the passage says:

If A happens, then B happens.

That does not automatically mean:

If B happens, then A happened.

This is one of the most common reasoning traps.

Mistake 3: Confusing All, Some, and None

Small words can change the entire conclusion.

Read all quantifiers carefully.

Mistake 4: Underestimating Figural Reasoning

Figural reasoning is unfamiliar for many candidates.

Practice visual patterns before test day.

Mistake 5: Trying to Game the Personality Assessment

Personality items may measure consistency.

If you try to create a fake profile, your answers may contradict each other.

Mistake 6: Treating Preferences as Unimportant

Preferences and Interests can still matter because the FBI is evaluating fit for Special Agent work.

Answer thoughtfully and honestly.

Mistake 7: Choosing Overly Aggressive SJT Answers

Federal law enforcement judgment is not about choosing the most forceful response.

Strong answers are usually professional, lawful, safe, accountable, and procedure-based.

Mistake 8: Practicing Only One Section

The Phase I test includes multiple assessment types.

Do not practice only logic or only personality questions.

Mistake 9: Not Training for Time Pressure

A three-hour assessment requires mental endurance.

Use timed practice.

Mistake 10: Assuming Passing Phase I Guarantees a Job

Passing Phase I does not guarantee employment.

You may still need to pass Phase II, PFT, background investigation, medical review, and final selection.

FBI Phase 1 Study Plan

If You Have 30 Days

Week 1

  • Read the official FBI testing overview.
  • Learn the five Phase I sections.
  • Take a diagnostic practice test.
  • Identify weak sections.

Week 2

  • Practice Logic-Based Reasoning.
  • Focus on if-then rules, all/some/none statements, and must-be-true conclusions.

Week 3

  • Practice Figural Reasoning and Situational Judgment.
  • Review visual patterns, rotations, mirrors, and judgment scenarios.

Week 4

  • Practice Personality Assessment and Preferences and Interests.
  • Take full timed simulations.
  • Review weak areas.
  • Begin preparing for Phase II and PFT.

If You Have 14 Days

Days 1-2

  • Review official FBI instructions.
  • Learn the test sections.
  • Take a short diagnostic.

Days 3-5

  • Practice Logic-Based Reasoning.

Days 6-8

  • Practice Figural Reasoning.

Days 9-10

  • Practice Situational Judgment.

Days 11-12

  • Review Personality and Preferences sections.
  • Practice consistency and honest response patterns.

Day 13

  • Take a timed mixed simulation.

Day 14

  • Light review and test-day preparation.

If You Have 7 Days

Day 1

  • Read official materials.
  • Take a diagnostic.

Day 2

  • Practice Logic-Based Reasoning.

Day 3

  • Practice more logic under time pressure.

Day 4

  • Practice Figural Reasoning.

Day 5

  • Practice Situational Judgment.

Day 6

  • Take a mixed timed practice set.

Day 7

  • Light review and prepare for the exam.

If You Have 24 Hours

If your FBI Phase 1 Test is tomorrow:

  1. Read your official instructions carefully.
  2. Review the five test sections.
  3. Practice 10 logic questions.
  4. Practice 10 figural reasoning questions.
  5. Review SJT decision principles.
  6. Review personality consistency strategy.
  7. Confirm test location, ID, timing, and scheduling details.
  8. Sleep as well as possible.

Free vs Paid FBI Phase 1 Prep

Free preparation is useful for:

  • understanding the Phase I format;
  • reviewing official FBI information;
  • seeing sample question styles;
  • identifying weak areas;
  • learning the five assessment sections;
  • building initial confidence.

Paid preparation may be useful if:

  • the FBI Special Agent opportunity is important;
  • you want full timed Phase I simulations;
  • you struggle with logic-based reasoning;
  • you struggle with figural reasoning;
  • you need SJT practice;
  • you want detailed answer explanations;
  • you want structured preparation across all five sections;
  • you failed before;
  • you need to prepare quickly.

Related guides on this site:

Official FBI Special Agent careers page

Official FBI Special Agent application and evaluation process

Official FBI Testing Overview Guide

Official FBI Special Agent overview

Official FBI Special Agent documents and downloads

Official FBI Special Agent physical requirements

FBI Phase 1 Test-Day Tips

Before the test:

  • read your official FBI instructions;
  • confirm the test date, location, and time;
  • bring required identification;
  • understand the five assessment sections;
  • sleep well the night before;
  • eat appropriately before testing;
  • arrive early if testing in person;
  • do not attempt last-minute heavy cramming.

During the test:

  • read instructions carefully;
  • answer logic questions only from the provided facts;
  • watch for all, some, none, only, if, must, and may;
  • scan figural patterns systematically;
  • answer personality items honestly;
  • stay consistent across behavioral sections;
  • choose SJT answers that show integrity and sound judgment;
  • manage time;
  • remain calm if one section feels difficult.

After the test:

  • follow FBI candidate instructions;
  • monitor your email;
  • prepare for Phase II if you pass;
  • continue PFT preparation;
  • keep documents organized;
  • review the rest of the Special Agent selection process.

FBI Phase 1 Preparation Checklist

Before your FBI Phase 1 Test, make sure you can:

  • explain the five test sections;
  • solve all/some/none logic questions;
  • solve if-then reasoning questions;
  • avoid unsupported conclusions;
  • identify visual patterns;
  • solve rotation and reflection questions;
  • answer personality items honestly;
  • maintain consistency across behavioral sections;
  • choose professional SJT responses;
  • manage a three-hour assessment;
  • follow official FBI testing instructions.

You may also want to review:

FAQ

What is the FBI Phase 1 Test?

The FBI Phase 1 Test is a computerized assessment used in the FBI Special Agent selection process. It includes Logic-Based Reasoning, Figural Reasoning, Personality Assessment, Preferences and Interests, and Situational Judgment.

How long is the FBI Phase 1 Test?

FBIJOBS describes the Phase I test as an approximately three-hour computerized exam, including check-in and check-out procedures.

What is on the FBI Phase 1 Test?

The test includes five assessments: Logic-Based Reasoning, Figural Reasoning, Personality Assessment, Preferences and Interests, and Situational Judgment.

Is the FBI Phase 1 Test hard?

It can be challenging because it combines logic, visual reasoning, personality, preferences, judgment, time pressure, and a long testing session.

How do I prepare for FBI Phase 1 logic questions?

Practice all/some/none statements, if-then rules, must-be-true conclusions, unsupported conclusions, and passage-based reasoning. Use only the information provided.

How do I prepare for FBI Phase 1 figural reasoning?

Practice visual patterns, rotations, reflections, missing figures, shape sequences, added or removed elements, and abstract rule detection.

Should I try to game the personality assessment?

No. Answer honestly and consistently. Trying to create a fake perfect profile can create contradictions.

What happens after the FBI Phase 1 Test?

If you pass Phase I and remain eligible, you may continue to Phase II, which may include a written assessment and structured interview, followed by additional hiring steps such as PFT, background investigation, medical review, and final selection.

Does passing the FBI Phase 1 Test guarantee a job?

No. Passing Phase I does not guarantee employment. It is one step in the Special Agent selection process.

Are these official FBI Phase 1 questions?

No. The questions on this page are practice-style examples. They are not official FBI, DOJ, USAJOBS, OPM, or federal agency questions.