WASHINGTON—Applications are now available online for the Washington Field Office’s (WFO) 2024 Citizens Academy, to be held May 1 to June 5 at the office’s headquarters in Washington, D.C.

The Citizens Academy program gives business, faith, civic, and community leaders an inside look at the FBI. Students gain insight into the structure and operation of the FBI, obtain an overview of the legal basis for the FBI’s jurisdiction, learn about the services the FBI provides, and even participate in firearms demonstrations and other practical problem-solving activities.

“The Citizens Academy is one of our most important community outreach events as it gives the people we serve a rare chance to see the FBI in action,” said Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg. “Graduates will have a better understanding of how the Washington Field Office fulfills its mission and the breadth of its responsibilities. The Citizens Academy also leads to future opportunities to participate in crime prevention and youth education efforts that benefit our local communities.”

Applicants should be business, civic, faith, or community leaders; should be at least 21 years old; must live or work within WFO’s area of responsibility (Washington, D.C., and the following counties in Virginia: Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Fauquier, Manassas, Loudoun, and Prince William), and must pass a limited background assessment with fingerprinting. Non-U.S. citizens may participate.

A nomination form is available on the Community Outreach section of our website at https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/washingtondc/community-outreach. The form can also be accessed directly via https://forms.fbi.gov/fbi-citizens-academy-nomination-form-washington-field/view. Those applying for the academy for themselves, or nominating others, must complete the form and submit it according to the stated guidelines by February 29.

There is no cost to attend the academy, and individuals chosen through the selection process will be notified by email.

Questions can be directed to WFO’s Community Outreach team by email at WFOCOP@fbi.gov.