so I've been told that the academy is 6 months, but you're saying it's now 101 days, approximately 3 months and some change. is this right? cause man, 6 months away is a lot.
@@Tell_Nikki goodness lol i searched as well online and it said 89 days, but regardless it is long. when it comes to weekends, are you allowed to stay with family and return before the weekday?
Nikki, big thank you. I'm applying now and I found your knowledge, insight and personal experiences very helpful!! Definitely going to watch your other videos! Big up to you! 🙏🏽💪🏽
I have a few things scheduled. I have read a lot of things people complain about the looooong working hours and the mandatory OT, I also read that it is really hard to get leave approved. How true is all this? Im trying to put 2 and 2 together before making a decision.
Every port is different. Scheduled hours are typically 8, or 10 hour shifts. There are situations of mandatory OT. The leave situation, I never experienced. Now if you're trying to get a date someone with seniority chose before you, you might not get that leave if you're needed. I had no issues with taking leave.
So...the beginning, with the yelling to induce stress, is that the entire academy too? I did local PD for 5 years, went through 8 months of an academy. It was everyday, every hour/break we would be doing laps around the building, we would be doing push ups sit ups, leg lifts, squats and duck walks until muscle failure and then go back into class all while getting yelled at. "Smoke" sessions, is the academy like that too? I see a lot of posts saying it is like that and worse and then I see if you're prior military/LE it's nothing
Hi Nikki, thank you for the video. Question for ya, did you have to do the Spanish Portion of it? I will be stationed in Long Beach Seaport in California.
Thank you for your videos! Question, I currently live in San Francisco, are we allowed to leave campus and fly back and forth during our weekend/off days while at the academy?
Hello, I was hearing that the academy for CBP was structured like a military boot camp where you had to march everywhere and also go through uniform and possibly room inspections. Is this true? I've done the military boot camp waa in the Marine corps 2001-2008, I've been to FLETC for my current job and we didnt have to do all that, plus I've been in law enforcement on the local level since 2007 and went through (2) police academy 6-months each which was hell. Im older in good shape, but I'm not sure if i want to go through booot camp style training again with yelling and all that. I just want to get the training like I did at Fletc in 2013 and not with all that extra unnecessary stuff.
@Tell_Nikki OK, thanks! That's good to hear. Did they pay for relocation to your new station? I currently live in the DMV area and want San Francisco or maybe Houston, TX, or even overseas if that's available. I was just wondering because moving a whole household would cost me a lot of money to do on my own.
I recently just finished my medical and fitness exam… how long does it take for my results to come in and how long does it take for me to be called for the interview
Was there a Spanish or language test you needed to pass there like BP or is that not required for CBP? I noticed in the Moto video it didn’t mention it
I applied 2 months ago and i have submitted and passed everything so far im just missing the poly and the interview. Havent heard yet about my background but already submitted. Was it fast for only being 2 months from the start of application?
I had a question about the hiring process. I had my adjuster contact me and clarify stuff about my polygraph and e quip. Is this normal? I know this decides if I move forward in the process.
My name is David. What can I look forward to in the structural interview and polygraph? You said that people told you that fail the polygraph. Could you please give us some advice? For both Structure and Polygraph? Also, should I begin reading Customs laws ahead of time to do well in the exams?
Hi. There is no info for the SI nor poly that you will find bc it is not information privy to others who have not experienced it. There is nothing I can share except be honest.
Hi, I’m currently waiting to EOD. I’m hearing you can’t bring a vehicle to FLETC, but some are saying you can just not on day 1. Any clarification on that?
This is my first time hearing this. Unless something has changed in the last 3 years, which it could've, but you can take your vehicle to Fletc and the 1st day.
Congratulations!!!! The process is the hard part. The academy is easy, as everything is set up for you to be successful. Just do your part, and you're all good!
So if you pass the pushups, sprint, and 1.5 mile run. How much would you say that they make you run a week for PT throughout your 5 months there? I just got my final offer and Im not going to lie I do struggle a bit with the running. Ive been practicing but I think I can make the time for the 1.5 mile run by the time I get sent down. But im a bit worried if they make us run more in longer distances throughout the week. Can you elaborate on what the fitness will be like after you pass the 3 Fitness graduation standard tests?
It depends on your instructor for the physical classes. They are going to make you put in work, but they may not necessarily have you running on the track.
@@Tell_Nikki Would I lose my job if I pass the initial running test but say the following week im not able to keep up during a run in a physical class?
👋 hi, question what about the academic part inside the academy what did that look like and how was it, was it similar to the entrance exams 🤔 did you find it hard ? THANK YOU IN ADVANCE! ❤️
No. I didn't think it was hard. I made sure I studied a few days before testing and initially I participated in a study group, but also assisted people individually in my class if they needed additional help.
How was life on campus/the dorms? Also is there a reason on why some people get a roommate and others don’t? I would honestly hate to be put in taj and have a roommate 😅
@08bhynson08 no one can live with you in the dorm, and guests are allowed on campus only for graduation. They can move in the area of Glynco/Brunswick GA or you can meet them off campus in the area.
@@Tell_Nikki thank you. I just got an email for my schedule medical test at a local urgent care, what about PT test, is it at a 3rd party vendor or actual CBP facility?
You would be applying for a position as a Customs and Border Protection Officer, which requires passing the academy in order to have the job. Must be 21 and older, you can visit usajobs.gov to apply. I would recommend a 18 yo to get work experience and learn a trade. Then apply close to their 21st bday.
For CBP, it was replaced for the academy portion. So, no. There is a driving course there for other agencies, and certain CBP trainings incorporate it.
@@Tell_Nikki oh okay, I’m not a good driver at all so I was very worried about this haha thank you! glad to hear that there is no driving def she course or any sort of driving taught at the academy for cbp
@@Tell_Nikki one more question! is there any math involved in the cbp academics/testing? im very bad at math😭 they recently removed the math section for the entrance exam so im hoping that’s a good sign
Me too - my eod is in July !! I’m excited and anxious at the same time .. I’m a mother of a 5 yo so .. I’m stressing about that . @nikki - thanks for all the information and videos !! Nice to see another woman of color in this position.
Hello. I hate this particular time it didn't work out for you. However, remain hopeful and optimistic! This shouldn't affect your future applications for government jobs. Keep applying and don't give up!
@anthonyu6495 So you passed the poly, but they failed your background right before going to GA? What on the background made them pass you over? Thank you for replying. I am in the position you are in
Don't tell folks that 😂 idk about the bus situation, I lived in a central location for everything, so it was rare I took the bus. You must be at the Taj?
If you are a veteran, then the age cap does not apply..you will have to apply under VRA. If you have previously been a federal LEO then the age cap does not apply. You do have to at least be referred for the position (considered eligible) prior to 40 if the other 2 situations I listed are not applicable to you.
Correction: Training is now 101 days (still doesn't Include holidays nor weekends)
so I've been told that the academy is 6 months, but you're saying it's now 101 days, approximately 3 months and some change. is this right? cause man, 6 months away is a lot.
@afatblft93 the 101 days exclude weekends and holidays. These are not calendar days. So it's over 5 months. It's long lol
@@Tell_Nikki goodness lol i searched as well online and it said 89 days, but regardless it is long. when it comes to weekends, are you allowed to stay with family and return before the weekday?
@afatblft93 yes, as long as the facility (FLETC) isn't considered shutdown.
I heard the academy is 6 weeks I’m so confused
Nikki, big thank you. I'm applying now and I found your knowledge, insight and personal experiences very helpful!! Definitely going to watch your other videos! Big up to you! 🙏🏽💪🏽
Thank you! Im glad it was helpful! Good luck throughout your process!
I’m excited for this opportunity. I passed my polygraph now all I have left is my background investigation
Congratulations! Good luck on the rest of your journey! Please keep me posted on it!
Hi ma’am
I just want to say thank you for your videos . It definitely gave me some insight on what I would experience and expect .
Hello. I'm glad they have been helpful!
Hey Nikki, appreciate the inside look into the academy. I'm getting my mind right for the next step.
My son is there right now. Thank you for the window into his training.
Acadis courses are so fun. By the way, since July 2023 academy has been 101 days. I was in the first 101 day class.
How are you liking it so ? And did you get the stationed you wanted?
I have a few things scheduled. I have read a lot of things people complain about the looooong working hours and the mandatory OT, I also read that it is really hard to get leave approved. How true is all this? Im trying to put 2 and 2 together before making a decision.
Every port is different. Scheduled hours are typically 8, or 10 hour shifts. There are situations of mandatory OT. The leave situation, I never experienced. Now if you're trying to get a date someone with seniority chose before you, you might not get that leave if you're needed. I had no issues with taking leave.
So...the beginning, with the yelling to induce stress, is that the entire academy too? I did local PD for 5 years, went through 8 months of an academy. It was everyday, every hour/break we would be doing laps around the building, we would be doing push ups sit ups, leg lifts, squats and duck walks until muscle failure and then go back into class all while getting yelled at. "Smoke" sessions, is the academy like that too? I see a lot of posts saying it is like that and worse and then I see if you're prior military/LE it's nothing
I switched over from being a dental office manager, former Educator and counselor. It's nothing crazy
Hi Nikki, thank you for the video.
Question for ya, did you have to do the Spanish Portion of it?
I will be stationed in Long Beach Seaport in California.
Hello. No, I didn't. Your location seems it won't require it either, but I'm not certain.
Sweet. Thank you very much!
Thank you for your videos! Question, I currently live in San Francisco, are we allowed to leave campus and fly back and forth during our weekend/off days while at the academy?
Yes, unless fletc tells you otherwise
Hello, I was hearing that the academy for CBP was structured like a military boot camp where you had to march everywhere and also go through uniform and possibly room inspections. Is this true?
I've done the military boot camp waa in the Marine corps 2001-2008, I've been to FLETC for my current job and we didnt have to do all that, plus I've been in law enforcement on the local level since 2007 and went through (2) police academy 6-months each which was hell. Im older in good shape, but I'm not sure if i want to go through booot camp style training again with yelling and all that. I just want to get the training like I did at Fletc in 2013 and not with all that extra unnecessary stuff.
Hello. I have never been in the military or any police academy but this experience wasn't like a boot camp the entire time.
@Tell_Nikki OK, thanks! That's good to hear. Did they pay for relocation to your new station? I currently live in the DMV area and want San Francisco or maybe Houston, TX, or even overseas if that's available. I was just wondering because moving a whole household would cost me a lot of money to do on my own.
You are responsible for your move. Overseas opportunities will come when you get some time in, then apply and if chosen, they pay for that relocation
I recently just finished my medical and fitness exam… how long does it take for my results to come in and how long does it take for me to be called for the interview
If you check out my first two videos, you'll get my process timeline. Process times vary
Was there a Spanish or language test you needed to pass there like BP or is that not required for CBP? I noticed in the Moto video it didn’t mention it
For certain ports yes there is
Can you explain why you wanted this job and where do you want to work? Do you want to work at the airport or border patrol?
Hello. That is explained in my last step of my process and final offer videos
I applied 2 months ago and i have submitted and passed everything so far im just missing the poly and the interview. Havent heard yet about my background but already submitted. Was it fast for only being 2 months from the start of application?
I don't know anyone else's process but I wouldn't complain nor worry about the speed being too fast. Lol. Background may take the longest
About working out after training hours is there a weightroom/gym where we can lift and train throughout the CBP academy
Yes, there is an indoor gym, and there are free weights outside near the main track
Thank you 🙏🏽 I leave in May your videos been holding it down 😂
@@andrewwilliam6335 congratulations!! May is almost here. Enjoy your time!
I had a question about the hiring process. I had my adjuster contact me and clarify stuff about my polygraph and e quip. Is this normal? I know this decides if I move forward in the process.
It's normal if they need to get additional information
Thank you, I was just kinda nervous cause I'm so close to being done. All I'm wishing for is my BI to contact me.
My name is David. What can I look forward to in the structural interview and polygraph? You said that people told you that fail the polygraph. Could you please give us some advice? For both Structure and Polygraph? Also, should I begin reading Customs laws ahead of time to do well in the exams?
Hi. There is no info for the SI nor poly that you will find bc it is not information privy to others who have not experienced it. There is nothing I can share except be honest.
IMO, No, you don't need to study ahead of time.
Hi, I’m currently waiting to EOD. I’m hearing you can’t bring a vehicle to FLETC, but some are saying you can just not on day 1. Any clarification on that?
This is my first time hearing this. Unless something has changed in the last 3 years, which it could've, but you can take your vehicle to Fletc and the 1st day.
@@Tell_Nikki Ok, thank you so much.
My EOD is Sep 9th!
Academy is October 8th
Congratulations!!!! The process is the hard part. The academy is easy, as everything is set up for you to be successful. Just do your part, and you're all good!
So if you pass the pushups, sprint, and 1.5 mile run. How much would you say that they make you run a week for PT throughout your 5 months there? I just got my final offer and Im not going to lie I do struggle a bit with the running. Ive been practicing but I think I can make the time for the 1.5 mile run by the time I get sent down. But im a bit worried if they make us run more in longer distances throughout the week. Can you elaborate on what the fitness will be like after you pass the 3 Fitness graduation standard tests?
It depends on your instructor for the physical classes. They are going to make you put in work, but they may not necessarily have you running on the track.
@@Tell_Nikki Would I lose my job if I pass the initial running test but say the following week im not able to keep up during a run in a physical class?
@cvg6486 the run isn't based on class. Go check out my academy complete video to get an idea
@@Tell_Nikki Alright will do thanks so much nikki!
👋 hi, question what about the academic part inside the academy what did that look like and how was it, was it similar to the entrance exams 🤔 did you find it hard ? THANK YOU IN ADVANCE! ❤️
No. I didn't think it was hard. I made sure I studied a few days before testing and initially I participated in a study group, but also assisted people individually in my class if they needed additional help.
Was the academic part mostly about laws we gotta learn or what did the academic part look like🤔 and thanks for the fast response ❤️🫶🏼
@jessicamelchor2724 there's alot to cover for the academic portion. Multiple choice tests and hands on test as though you're on duty.
Thank you ! Looking forward for more of your videos
How was life on campus/the dorms? Also is there a reason on why some people get a roommate and others don’t? I would honestly hate to be put in taj and have a roommate 😅
The older dorms are like motels lol but they are clean. Campus life was chill . You make it work for you
Idk how they assign rooms
What about spouses and kids can they visit or live with you? If they can visit what days can they and can they not visit?
Are you referring to preacademy or at FLETC?
@@Tell_NikkiFLETC
@@Tell_Nikkiyes FLETC
@08bhynson08 no one can live with you in the dorm, and guests are allowed on campus only for graduation. They can move in the area of Glynco/Brunswick GA or you can meet them off campus in the area.
@@Tell_Nikki oh ok thank you for the info
Is there any swimming involved at the academy, because I can’t swim 😅😅
No
Thank Gawd 😂
@@iamdanielle_ 😂
Never to late to learn though!
Can you talk about the work schedule, mandatory overtime etc ? Also is it better to work at a airport or at border?
Work schedule and OT are Port specific, meaning based off of your duty station.
Airport vs Land border is individual preference. I preferred to be in the AC as much as possible.
How much do you get paid for the academy ? Is it full pay or less ?
It's full pay based on your GS level. Just no OT. It is extremely rare of getting OT or night differential pay.
can you explain about the PT entrance step test, there's not a lot of information on it.
th-cam.com/video/tKPAXQBNG4A/w-d-xo.htmlsi=aVDAa1W8NFmqqbno
This is how the step test goes. It's for 5 minutes. You are required to remain on beat.
@@Tell_Nikki oh wow, thank you so much. It's more slower than I had anticipated, i thought was rapid step test non stop for 5 mins. LOL
@jakesmith9321 it may be a little faster, but not that much. Make sure you stretch good before the PT-1.
@@Tell_Nikki thank you. I just got an email for my schedule medical test at a local urgent care, what about PT test, is it at a 3rd party vendor or actual CBP facility?
@jakesmith9321 that's when you will take PT as well
How long did the whole process take from start to finish? I just went to a job fair yesterday and I want to apply to become a CBP officer…..
Hello. Check out my first 2 videos. You will get exact dates for my process
I applied on Feb 1 2023, my final offer: jan 28, 2024.
@@pr_glockfan 1 year is a nice turnaround!
Where do you sign up for the academy? recommend going after high school?
You would be applying for a position as a Customs and Border Protection Officer, which requires passing the academy in order to have the job. Must be 21 and older, you can visit usajobs.gov to apply. I would recommend a 18 yo to get work experience and learn a trade. Then apply close to their 21st bday.
I’m from mass n I wanna know if you stay in the academy while in training
I don't understand
Hello, is the pft2 before or after the academy?
Hello. Unless something has changed, there is no pft2
Question, is there any defensive driving or any type of driving taught at the academy?
For CBP, it was replaced for the academy portion. So, no. There is a driving course there for other agencies, and certain CBP trainings incorporate it.
@@Tell_Nikki oh okay, I’m not a good driver at all so I was very worried about this haha thank you! glad to hear that there is no driving def she course or any sort of driving taught at the academy for cbp
@sniff790 lol, I understand. You have no worries
@@Tell_Nikki one more question! is there any math involved in the cbp academics/testing? im very bad at math😭 they recently removed the math section for the entrance exam so im hoping that’s a good sign
@sniff790 it's a little math, but a very small percentage. Nothing to really stress over.
Are they allowed to use phone at the academy or is restricted?
Phone restrictions are in place during work hours
Does USCP get military style training?
From the people I know who were prior military, they would state no
@@Tell_Nikki okay.
I just got my final offer
Congratulations!! Your patience paid off!
Me too - my eod is in July !! I’m excited and anxious at the same time .. I’m a mother of a 5 yo so .. I’m stressing about that .
@nikki - thanks for all the information and videos !! Nice to see another woman of color in this position.
Congratulations!! I pray you have a strong support system that can ease your mind while you're in training. You got this!
I got my EOD in July and my location what I wanted ., thanks for your amazing videos and support 🙏
Congratulations!!
Got my Structure Interview next week any tips & advice to pass?
Just don't overthink
Another quick question do you get paid your base salary during pre academy?
@@YZJR yes
About the academic part How many written exams? And what was the minimum score on written exams?
8, I think it was a 70
Thank you and do you know by any chance for border patrol?
@@vincentchestang4089 no
How do the pay work
Check out my video before this, it goes over pay
So I wasn't found suitable for Cbpo, which is dumb even tho I was being honest. How does that affect me if I want to apply to other government jobs
Hello. I hate this particular time it didn't work out for you. However, remain hopeful and optimistic! This shouldn't affect your future applications for government jobs. Keep applying and don't give up!
@anthonyu6495 How did you find out you were not suitable? Was that after you went to pre academy or before? Was it the poly or background?
@@terrydel9987 it was before the academy after my poly I think the start of my background
@anthonyu6495 So you passed the poly, but they failed your background right before going to GA? What on the background made them pass you over? Thank you for replying. I am in the position you are in
Bring your car because them buses always full 😭
Don't tell folks that 😂 idk about the bus situation, I lived in a central location for everything, so it was rare I took the bus. You must be at the Taj?
Did you have a roommate while at fletc?
If you're staying in the Taj, yes. The other dorm buildings, you share the same toilet and shower with one person, but have your own rooms.
@@Tell_Nikki do you know if the same applies for US Capitol Police?
All that extra is a joke, especially for CBP😂😂😂😂😂
🤷🏽♀️
you have nice eyes
Can you apply after you turn 40?
If you are a veteran, then the age cap does not apply..you will have to apply under VRA. If you have previously been a federal LEO then the age cap does not apply. You do have to at least be referred for the position (considered eligible) prior to 40 if the other 2 situations I listed are not applicable to you.
@@Tell_Nikki not a veteran but I am a former TSA employee but it seems like that experience doesn’t count.
@@1983JG no that won't