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Navigating the Foreign Service Specialist Assessment: Case Management Exercise (CME)

If you’re advancing in the Foreign Service hiring process as an Office Management Specialist or Information Management Specialist candidate, your next step is the Case Management Exercise (CME). This essential phase of the assessment process requires careful planning and adherence to specific guidelines. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through the scheduling and completion of your CME.

Choosing Your CME Format: In-Person or Online

Candidates have the option to complete the CME either in person at a Pearson VUE Test Center or remotely from their own computer via Pearson VUE’s OnVUE system. Here’s how to decide which option is best for you:

  • In-Person Testing: Choose this option if you prefer a controlled testing environment and need immediate technical support.
  • Online Testing: Ideal for those who are comfortable with remote testing and have a suitable and quiet environment at home.

To begin, follow the instructions in your invitation letter. This includes creating a new account with Pearson VUE using the details provided, even if you already have an existing account. You must schedule your CME within the 30-day window specified in your invitation letter. The dates outside this range are not guaranteed, except under exceptional circumstances.

Scheduling Your CME

  1. Create a Pearson VUE Account: Use the information from your invitation letter to set up your new account.
  2. Select Your Test Date: Choose a date within the authorized 30-day window. If you miss this window, rescheduling may not be possible unless for emergency reasons.
  3. Complete the CME: You will receive an invitation from SpecialistScheduling@state.gov within two weeks of completing your CME to schedule the final stage of the assessment—the Structured Interview.

Reasonable Accommodation

If you require special accommodations due to a disability under the Rehabilitation Act, you must request this through the Pearson VUE Accommodations Portal at least two weeks before your intended CME date. Note that you cannot schedule your CME until your accommodation request is approved. For existing accommodation requests, contact Pearson VUE Accommodations at 1-800-486-0450 for scheduling assistance and specify your involvement in the Foreign Service Specialist Appointment System (FSSAS).

Plagiarism & AI Policy

The Department of State enforces strict policies regarding the integrity of application materials. Here are the key points:

  • Original Responses Required: All narrative responses must be created independently. Plagiarism from other sources will result in disqualification.
  • No AI Assistance: The use of artificial intelligence tools, such as ChatGPT, for writing or assisting in your application is strictly prohibited. Violating this policy will lead to disqualification.

Candidates are encouraged to produce thoughtful, well-crafted responses while adhering to grammatical and stylistic standards. The Department of State conducts thorough analyses to ensure compliance with these guidelines.

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