Living Abroad and Security Clearance

[Cato87]

Hello, I am new to these forums and I am considering a career in the military. I am not sure which branch I want to join, but my MOS of choice would most likely be intelligence. I noticed that a "secret clearance" was required to be considered for this MOS and was told by a less than concrete source that living abroad would mess the clearance process up.

Is this true, if so, are there waivers availible? I am currently applying to graduate schools, about half of which are not in the U.S.

I am applying to 3 schools in the United Kingdom, one school in Israel, and one school in Eygpt.
If I studied in a foriegn country, would it prevent my clearance should I decide to apply for MOS in intel?

[Punisher4]

Living abroad makes it much harder to get a Secret Clearance right at enlistment. The process is very long and the agency is quite backed up with packets waiting to be investigated. It can be done, but you should know that most recruiters do not have the time and resources to put towards processing a Secret Security Clearance for an applicant.

The easiest way to get the clearance is to take a Regular job in the Army (or other branch) and apply once you are on the "inside". The process is much quicker and easier for people who are already serving in an Active Military Unit.

Anything else you need to know, just ask.

Punisher4

[Cato87]

Couple follow-ups.

Does starting in one MOS and switching to another like you recommend run the risk of hurting your career?

Which MOS would help me get into intel? Probably looking at intel for Navy or Marines

Any specific course work I should take in grad school that would help me? my UG was Math (Pure, not applied) and philosophy. Should I attempt to take some UG science or engineering courses while in grad school?My apps are for masters programs in Divinity, War Studies, and Middle East Studies but the schools allow for some elective cred in other fields.

[Punisher4]

Can't really speak for the Navy or Marines, but I know that you can recl*** (switch jobs) in the Army with very little negative impact on your career. You would end up going to a recl*** school, but depending on your rank (and how far along into your career you are) that should be it.

I would look at or consider Political Science type courses...but I can see where the War Studies / Middle East Studies would come in handy as well.

The easiest way to put it is that you can get an intel job in the Army, but it may not be available right away at first enlistment. The best way to pursue this though is to sit down and talk to a recruiter, whether it be an Army recruiter or otherwise.