Can Anyone Become an Alchemist in Fullmetal Alchemist?

 In the world of Fullmetal Alchemist, those who can perform alchemy, also known as Alchemists, seem to possess immense superpowers. They can shoot fiery flames from their fingers, build multistory walls in a matter of seconds, and conjure up swords, spears, and even cannons from the ground, to name just a few examples.

Seeing how easily they can bend the laws of nature, the question arises: are they the chosen ones or can anyone learn to be an alchemist? Are alchemical abilities something you're born with, like the Gifts in My Hero Academia, or is it something you can learn, like the concept of Nen in Hunter x Hunter?

Between Science and Magic

In the world of Fullmetal Alchemist, Alchemy really sits between science and magic. In fact, to be an alchemist, you need to be extremely well-versed in many conventional scientific areas, such as mathematics, physics, and most important of all, chemistry.

After all, Alchemy works according to the three basic principles: Understanding, Deconstruction and Reconstruction. Alchemists must be able to immediately Understand the molecular structure of an object before Deconstructing that object and then Rebuilding it into a completely new object. This process requires a deep understanding of Advanced Chemistry and Molecular Science, among other things.

That said, such knowledge is only the first half of Alchemy; the other half is the knowledge of manipulating Earth energy and creating Transmutation Circles. After all, the energy that makes an alchemical process possible comes from the great increase in energy caused by the movement of the Earth's Crusts and Tectonic Plates.

Furthermore, this energy needs to be channeled through a Transmutation Circle to perform an alchemical process. Needless to say, different applications require different types of Transmutation Circles. That's why this part of the equation is very similar to magic.

The Gate of Truth

Within the soul of every living being, there is a portal-like structure known as the Portal of Truth. This portal is adorned with beautiful engravings that cover the entire portal. The size and design of the portal varies from person to person. After all, the portal is carved through individual knowledge and experience in life.

The Gate of Truth itself represents the individual's potential in Alchemy. And, since each individual has their own Gate of Truth within their soul, this means that everyone has the potential to become an alchemist. So, regarding the question of whether anyone can become an Alchemist, the answer is a resounding yes.

However, it is worth highlighting the fact that no one can see this portal. The overwhelming majority of people do not even know about the existence of this portal within them. The only people who have a chance to see this portal are those who commit the ultimate sin in Alchemy, which is Human Transmutation. This is why only the Elric Brothers, their teacher, Colonel Mustang, and a few other people in the series have seen their Portals of Truth.

Alchemist vs State Alchemist

Now that we know that everyone has the potential to become an Alchemist, provided they are willing to learn about it, it's time to talk about the difference between an ordinary Alchemist and individuals known as State Alchemists. After all, while everyone can learn about Alchemy, only the most talented can become State Alchemists.

As the name suggests, a State Alchemist is an alchemist who has been officially recognized and employed by the country of Amestris. To become one, an alchemist must pass a series of extremely difficult tests, including written exams, psychological assessments, and practical exams witnessed by the upper echelons of the Amestris army, including the Führer himself. If the individual passes the rigorous exams, the Führer will grant them an official title, which is how Edward got the name "Fullmetal Alchemist".

A State Alchemist enjoys many benefits, such as full financial support from the Government in any research they desire, access to many public and state resources, and, since a State Alchemist is equivalent to a Major in the Amestris army, they too can exercise your military privileges, such as commanding troops, using military assets, and accessing military-grade information, among other things.

That said, since the country of Amestris considers its State Alchemists to be part of the army, it means that the Government can compel them to risk their lives on the front lines at any time. In addition, they are also required to submit the results of their research to the Government on time. Failure to do so will mean your license will be revoked. So it's not all flowers and rainbows for the State Alchemists in Amestris.

But it is obvious that it is certainly one of the best professions that anyone can have in this country. After all, they have access to an insane amount of money, command a fairly high level of authority, and enjoy the respect and admiration of the people.