Intelligence Community security clearance process (2024)

FAQs

How to answer a security clearance question? ›

How long does the security clearance process take? The security clearance process takes an average of three to four months to complete but can take up to a full year to complete depending on your background.

A top secret security clearance is a determination by the U.S. government that an individual can access highly sensitive information or data that affects national security. Obtaining a top secret clearance requires passing a Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI) and can take 6 to 18 months.

You are not a U.S. citizen. You were dishonorably discharged from the military. You are currently involved in illegal drug use. You have been judged as mentally incompetent or mentally incapacitated by a mental health professional.

The answer to a good security question should be obvious. In addition, it should be easy to remember, but at the same time remain secret to others. The answer should be immediately remembered as soon as the user receives the security question.

SCI classifications are only cleared for a few people and the background investigation process as well as the continual monitoring is extremely intensive. The amount of time it takes to receive a security clearance is usually between six months to one year, if all goes well.

During the background investigation, we interview neighbors, friends, supervisors, and co-workers to evaluate your character, trustworthiness, and loyalty to the United States. We also look into any conflicts of interest or potential for coercion, as well as your ability to protect sensitive information.

Security Clearance Adjudicative Process

The clearance process for Secret level access uses an investigation called the National Agency Check with Law and Credit that goes back five years, while the clearance process for Top Secret uses a Single Scope Background Investigation that goes back ten years.

For that reason, the person deciding your case won't necessarily deny your clearance application just because you have a low credit score. There is no specific credit score needed for security clearance.

Top secret clearance: This type of security clearance is the most restrictive and provides access to information that can cause grave damage to national security if disclosed without authorization. Must be reinvestigated for continued eligibility every five years.

Is SCI higher than Top Secret? ›

Information "above Top Secret," a phrase used by the media, means either Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) or Special Access Program (SAP). It is not truly "above" Top Secret, since there is no clearance higher than Top Secret.

Whether you're applying for a job with the border patrol or as a cia agent, a number of cleared careers require a successfully completed polygraph examination. The vast majority of both Secret and Top Secret security cleared positions do not require a polygraph.

A history of drug addiction, drug involvement, or alcoholism can provide a barrier to receiving security clearance. Past issues with drugs or alcohol may disqualify you from receiving security clearance. Current, ongoing use of an illegal drug will automatically disqualify you.

The average cost to process a TOP SECRET clearance is between $3,000 and about $15,000, depending upon individual factors. The government pays the cost of clearances for military personnel and civilian government employees.

Between 2015 and 2020, about 2-5% of security clearance applications faced denial each year. According to the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA), Financial Issues caused 29% of denials in 2020,which isn't surprising considering the amount of debt most Americans carry.

You may mention your level of clearance, that you underwent polygraph tests and investigations into your background, the dates of polygraphs taken and descriptions of work you performed. Avoid mentioning the following: The specific details of your work, particularly sensitive data relating to them.

Sample Answer: I want to work for your company because I understand the importance of a security team to your property. I know that my job is to keep your staff and property safe from harm. I'm excited to be a part of your team and to work with you in the future. Question: Why should we hire you?

Be Honest: Background investigators value honesty above all else. Be forthcoming about your past experiences, including any past legal issues or employment terminations. Review Civil/Criminal Record: Check your own civil/criminal record to ensure accuracy.