"(b)    The Board shall receive applications for the Foreign Affairs examinations and nominate candidates between the ages of twenty-three and thirty-eight, inclusive, who are physically fit and who in their opinion may, by reason of academic training or practical experience, or both, be qualified to take the examinations: Provided, That any person who, prior to the approval of this Act, has passed the Foreign Affairs Officers written examination while in the Foreign Service shall be considered eligible if he falls within the age limit provided for in this Act: Provided, further, That any person who is holding a responsible position in the service of the Department or in the Foreign Service for at least two years prior to the date of the examination and who is physically fit and a degree holder requiring at least four academic years in any college recognized by the Government be qualified to take the examinations, regardless of the maximum age limit prescribed herein. Foreign Affairs examinations shall be open only to Filipino citizens. No person married to an alien may take these examinations without the written consent of the Secretary of Foreign Affairs." 

Approved: June 4, 1957