How to become a diplomat

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A career as a diplomat is exciting and varied, and can take you around the world. Find out how to become a diplomat.

What is a diplomat?

A diplomat is a civil servant who works in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. You will be responsible for promoting British interests overseas. You may specialise in a particular area:

  • Consular officer - You will focus on helping British citizens living abroad. This could include assisting with visas and passports. 
  • Political officer - You will build relationships with the country you are based in. This might include negotiating agreements and looking for matters of mutual interests. You will also monitor political developments in this country and report back to the Foreign Office.
  • Economic officer - This type of diplomat focuses on trade and the economy. That means striking trade deals, encouraging investment and exporting to the UK.
  • Public diplomacy officer - You'll engage the public in the country you're based in. This can involve organising campaigns and events. You are responsible for fostering good will and relations.
There are different types of diplomat.
There are different types of diplomat.

How much does a diplomat earn?

A diplomat can earn between £32,000 - £46,000. This will depend on the seniority and responsibilities of the role.

What does a diplomat do?

A diplomat's daily responsibilities could include:

  • Monitoring political events
  • Analysing the implications for the UK
  • Reporting back to the Foreign Office
  • Developing policies and strategies
  • Communicating with other governments
  • Negotiating deals and agreements
  • Handling queries and requests for information
  • Admin and official documentation

What skills do diplomats need?

As well as formal training, you will need a number of personal skills to become a diplomat. This includes:

What qualifications do you need to become a diplomat?

You will need formal qualifications to become a diplomat. You can become a lower-level diplomatic assistant with GCSEs and A Levels. However, you will need at least a 2:2 degree to become a diplomat.

You don't need a specific degree to become a diplomat. However, some degrees may be more relevant than others, such as sociology, history or politics.

Our Sociology BA (Hons) degree will give you a deeper understanding of how society works. You'll study key theories and social issues, such as religion, immigration, justice and violence. At the University of Central Lancashire, we take an international perspective towards sociology. This can help you understand the problems in foreign countries, and how this can then affect international relations.

Our History BA (Hons) degree can also give you a greater understanding of international relations, as you understand the historic links or fractures between nations. You'll cover both British and international history, including key events like colonisation which have a lasting legacy. History also develops your analytical skills, as you determine the impact and significance of events. This will help you in your role as a diplomat, as you will be able to assess the importance of political changes or events.

International Relations, Sociology or History could equip you with the skills you need.
International Relations, Sociology or History could equip you with the skills you need.

Civil Service Fast Stream

If you graduate with at least a 2:2 degree you can apply for the Diplomatic and Development Civil Service Fast Stream. This is a 5 year scheme for graduates to gain skills and experience, before becoming a diplomat.

During your first year, you will be based in the UK. This will be a policy role, allowing you to see the process behind developing policies. In your second year, you could apply to work overseas or an operational role in the UK. In your third to fifth years, you will be assigned to a post overseas. There are a diverse range of roles available, and the Foreign Office will take your preferences into account.

To be accepted on the Civil Service Fast Stream, you will need to be a British citizen and pass vetting. You will also need to pass a range of online and in-person assessments.

Where next?

A career as a diplomat is challenging and requires a lot of skill. However, it is also exciting and gives you the chance to experience different cultures. We hope this has helped you understand how to become a diplomat. Browse our courses below.