How to become a Border Force officer
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working your way up
- applying directly
- a graduate training scheme
College
You could do a college course which could help you to develop some of the skills and knowledge needed in this role.
Relevant courses include:
Level 3 Diploma in Public Services
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
You could do a public service operational delivery advanced apprenticeship with the Civil Service.
Entry requirements
To do this apprenticeship, you'll need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths
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Work
You could join the Civil Service as a Border Force assistant officer, then apply for an officer post when vacancies become available.
To do this, you'll usually need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English and maths, or equivalent qualifications.
Direct Application
You could apply directly to become a Border Force officer. To enter at officer level, you may need at least 2 A levels at grade E or above, or equivalent qualifications.
Other Routes
You can apply through the Civil Service Fast Stream if you have a degree.
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Further information
You can find out more about working as a Border Force officer from Border Force and Civil Service Careers.