State Department Changes Foreign Service Test, Adds ‘America First’ Focus to Diplomat Training

The U.S. State Department is implementing sweeping changes to how it recruits and trains diplomats, including revisions to the Foreign Service exam and a new “America First” focus in orientation programs.

According to the department, the updated exam will now emphasize American history, foreign policy concepts, and logical reasoning. Officials say questions tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion—commonly referred to as DEI—have been removed, with the goal of eliminating what they describe as ideological content from the hiring process.

In addition to testing changes, the State Department is revamping its onboarding program for new diplomats. The updated curriculum will include lessons centered on diplomatic history and the administration’s “America First” foreign policy approach, along with readings from historical figures like George Washington and John Quincy Adams.

The move is part of a broader effort to reshape the diplomatic corps following significant staffing changes in recent years, including the departure of hundreds of experienced foreign service officers. Officials say the reforms are designed to modernize the department and better align it with current national priorities.

However, the changes are drawing criticism from some within the diplomatic community. The American Foreign Service Association warns the updates could introduce political ideology into a traditionally nonpartisan process, raising concerns about how future diplomats are selected and trained.

Critics argue that reducing diversity-focused efforts and shifting training priorities could impact the effectiveness and global perception of U.S. diplomacy. Supporters, meanwhile, say the reforms will strengthen the country’s ability to represent its interests on the world stage.

As the changes roll out, the debate continues over how best to balance professional diplomacy with evolving political priorities.

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