DHS Adjudications Officer Written Test

[CAPA]

RE: DHS Adjudications Officer Written Test

Does anyone have any information regarding the DHS Adjudications Officer Written Test? Format, attire, etc.

In addition, does anyone have any knowledge of the position? Typical day, job satisfaction, training, etc.

Thanks,
CAPA

[mleslie]

We can't really talk about the test, format etc. Attire? Well its just a test, there is no interview done at the same time, so I wouldn't worry about showing up in a three piece suit, but I probably wouldn't show up in torn jeans.

Knowledge of the position? I was an II doing DAO work. Its different. Not enforcement, you are granting or denying benefits. Depending on the office you may work at you will either be assisgned to a section that only adjudicates one type of application, like N-400s (Application for Naturalization). If you work at a smaller office you may adjudicate all kinds of applications, N-400, I-485 (application to adjust status to permanent resident), etc.

I found it challenging, working with the law (Immigration and Nationality Act), finding a tough denial and researching the law to deny it and then writing the denial. Job satisfaction depends on the individual, if you want a LE position then you won't be satisfied in this position. Each office is given goals to accomplish for the fiscal year, I was the only one adjudicating N-600/643s so I challenged myself to exceed the goal every year. I found ways to challenge myself in the position.

Typical day in our office (which was a small office). DAOs began work at 0730 and began interviewing at 0800. About 1/2 hour break for lunch. Typical case load on 485 day was 10 to 12 cases. When not interviewing they should be catching up on their continued cases and denying or approving those. Its basicly a desk bound position.

Training is 4 to 5 weeks at FLETC, learning Immigration Law, Naturalization Law, activity prep (intro to different forms etc.). I haven't attended the DAO course, only IOBTC.

Honestly, it isn't that bad of a job. When I was an II, I did not want to be a DAO and I hated doing their work when I was lower graded then they were. But the position I held in that office really helped me to learn alot about the INA and how to research law.

Hope this helps.

[BCIS_Officer]

I'm currently a Center Adjudications Officer working I-485 and I-140 employment-based applications. The job is interesting but does become monotonous after a year or so doing the same application. However, there are excellent opportunities for advancement (at least in the Service Centers where there are many more supervisory positions available) and the automatic pay raise every year is awesome. Training at FLETC can be fun as well but it makes those of us seeking a special agent career longing even more (seeing all the Secret Service, ATF and OIG agents training). As far as the test, most people score very well but it can be difficult. The logical reasoning section is the longest and hardest but some of the TEA preparation materials such as the one for the U.S. Marshall's are very helpful.

[CAPA]

Mleslie and BCIS Officer, thank you for the replies, very informative. The letter scheduling me for the writing test states the test will take approximately one hour. I wonder if the test still includes the logical reasoning?

BCIS do you agree, no suit, business casual is fine?

Thanks again, I appreciate it.

CAPA

[noknock]

I know you didn't ask me, but for the half a dozen government tests I took 10 years ago there was a GS-3 OPM employee administering the test who could care less what you are wearing. They only care about seeing your photo i.d.

[BCIS_Officer]

I agree with "no knock". When I took the CAO/DAO test back in January there was a GS-3 OPM official administering the test and he only cared about the photo identification. I suggest you wear something comfortable and casual.

I don't think the logical reasoning portion is on the test any longer. DHS came out with a new format adopted from Immigration & Customs Enforcement -- an online questionnaire and a 1 hour written assessment to replace the older 3-hour exam with the logical reasoning and reading comprehension portion. I don't know anything about the writing assessment as it became the standard only a few months ago. Good luck and let us know how you did!!!

[mleslie]

Mleslie and BCIS Officer, thank you for the replies, very informative. The letter scheduling me for the writing test states the test will take approximately one hour. I wonder if the test still includes the logical reasoning?

BCIS do you agree, no suit, business casual is fine?

Thanks again, I appreciate it.

CAPA

This is just a writing assesment test, not like the TAPS test that INS used to have.

[mleslie]

I know you didn't ask me, but for the half a dozen government tests I took 10 years ago there was a GS-3 OPM employee administering the test who could care less what you are wearing. They only care about seeing your photo i.d.

Whassss up noknock? Find me a job yet?

[noknock]

Still looking for a job for you mleslie. ALthough you are sitting plush with your current gig. I still can't believe where you are living!!!!

[mleslie]

Want to change jobs? Dude you should see the eagles here.

[yd0331]

This is just a writing assesment test, not like the TAPS test that INS used to have.

I applied for this position a month ago and got the same letter about taking a one-hour writing test. So after you take and pass the writing assessment test, what is the next step in the process? I am an Americorps VISTA with noncompetitive eligibilty and I was wondering why I'm having to take a written test in the 1st place.

[mleslie]

Its just the way they annuonced the position