The Enhanced Subject Interview (ESI) is a required part of all investigations and periodic reinvestigations for Top Secret clearances. It is also a standard part of Moderate Risk Background Investigations (MBIs) for Moderate Risk Public Trust Positions and Background Investigations (BIs) for High Risk Public Trust positions. The ESI was previously called a Personal Subject Interview (PRSI). ESIs are conducted by federal investigators (Special Agents) and federal contract investigators (Special Investigators). Interview procedures vary slightly from agency to agency, but most agencies follow the same basic format and cover the same topical areas…

Some federal clearances for Sensitive Compartment Information (SCI) and other Special Access Programs (SAP) require a polygraph screening examination in addition to a Single Scope Background Investigation. Generally polygraph exams are not used when only a collateral security clearance is needed. The Office of Personnel Management, which conducts 90% of all federal background investigations, does not conduct polygraph exams. Polygraph screening exams are conducted by Intelligence Community agencies that adjudicate SCI and/or SAP eligibility…