Lurking FT for the last 15 years (here's my tip: password management software), but wanted to put in a plug for getting GE quick.
Originally Posted by
paul21
Submitted 1AM 4/16
Conditionally approved 9AM 4/16
15+ appointments available at ORD 4/17
It's possible to finish the interview 48 hours after submission?
I say
YES (but I didn't want to leave work right away).
Total time from application to approval: 49 hours, 50 minutes. Until approval letter: 50 hours, 24 minutes.
I was heading to DC last week, and on Tuesday a co-worker in the DC office told me bring my passport and apply for GE down there. I applied at the end of the day Tuesday April 21 and flew down that night. Hounding the GOES site all day Wednesday with no status change. Received conditional-approval Thursday morning 10am-ish, noted the next BOS appointment was in August and IAD was also weeks out, but that Friday April 24 there was practically 100% openings at:
WASHINGTON, DC ENROLLMENT CENTER
1300 Pennsylvania Ave, NW 2.4D, Suite 2.5A
Washington, DC 20229
but I was flying out early Friday AM. On a hunch I went down after lunchtime Thursday 24 April and tried for a walkin. It was empty, I politely asked, explaining the wait until August, they took me. 10 minutes in and out, approved. Before I took the Metro back to the office my approval letter had arrived.
I don't know if it had any effect, but I've had a passport since childhood, haven't travelled internationally in the last 5 years, and nowhere "interesting" in 15 years, and have held security clearance. In fact, I think it is just due to HQ having optimal supply and demand.
If you are waiting on an appointment, and can get into downtown DC (even forcing a long layover at DCA could do it Metro+walk 25 minutes each way) walk-in or even reschedule.