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What are my chances? Thoughts and opinions?
I have been working through the application process for an active duty position and ultimately a slot at UPT through OTS. I have been gleaning as much information from as many sources as possible, but would like to hear some feedback from those who have maybe had direct experiences with this sort of thing before me. I have taken the AFOQT, my scores being 99/97/99/92/88/87, cleared MEPS, and taken the TBAS with my overall PCSM being 99. My overall GPA (including classes that I have taken after earning my bachelors) is a 3.2, and I am 31 years old. What are thoughts and opinions of my chances of being offered a slot at UPT through OTS? I have heard a large majority of UPT slots go to Academy and ROTC graduates. Do my scores and “stats” stack up only against other OTS applicants? Or am I being compared to Academy and ROTC members as well? If my scores are higher than an Academy or ROTC applicant, will that potentially place me higher on a list and closer to a UPT slot?
I’m trying to fill in some blanks of my understanding as I gather the final pieces for my application. The process is what it is, and all I can do is put my best foot forward, but having a better understanding of the process helps foster a proper mindset as I await an answer to my application.
Thanks in advance to any and all advice and the time taken to help inform me.
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This discussion was modified 4 months, 2 weeks ago by
MGB.
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This discussion was modified 4 months, 2 weeks ago by
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6 Replies
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Fantastic scores, solid GPA, I say hammer down and go for it! I’d recommend going for Application Prep session. Best of luck!
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Hey,
We should connect and stay in touch going forward, as I’m very similar to you in terms of numbers and am starting to pivot away from Guard/Reserves due to the protracted rushing commitments and limited amount of time left.
I’d say we should be hopefully optimistic but definitely have a back up as my understanding is that the competition for OTS spots is intense. I’d have to dredge up where I found this again, but, our GPAs are on the lower end of selectees while our test scores are on the high end. Furthermore, it seems very rare that folks in their 30s get picked up, but, I did not have data for the ages of the entire applicant pool. Are you exercising all your other options as well (guard/reserve/unsponsored)?
I assume you already are, but, get in touch with an AD officer accessions recruiter. They will need to label you as “competitive” for them to move forward with your package. They may label you non-competitive as they did me with your GPA, but I argued it (based on AFOQT/PCSM and flight hours) and they decided to proceed with me. Be patient but persistent as it seems like these recruiters are overloaded with work (rated and non-rated boards and hundreds upon hundreds of applicants!). You may be way ahead of me here but just wanted to get the info out as there seems to be less gouge on going active duty. I’m aiming to have my packet squared away by 25OTS01 due on 22 Sep.
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This reply was modified 4 months, 2 weeks ago by Colin.
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This reply was modified 4 months, 2 weeks ago by
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MGB,
Give yourself every chance to win. Seriously.
The needs of the USAF change constantly. Some boards are hyper competitive, and sometimes the USAF planned poorly and everyone on the OTS board gets picked up.
You’ve got 4-5 swings at the bat for a OTS UPT board + lots of opportunities to apply to guard/reserve boards.
Don’t worry about getting bad news from one or multiple boards, because 100 “no” and 1 “Yes”. That’s good enough to become an pilot.
Cheers!
Husky
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Thanks for all the responses. I appreciate the encouragement and opinions. I am beginning to looking into ANG routes as well but have mostly been focusing on active duty up until this point.
Can I use all of the same application material (test scores, MEPS results, etc.) for ANG applications? Anything new or different I may need to add into those applications?
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MGB, lots of that stuff will carry over to your ANG apps. Keep and eye on that clock you’ll want to move quickly so you stay GTG for age.
Tons of great resources on the website and the forums. You can also schedule a 1 on 1 general strategy session to build a bespoke plan with a coach.
Keep at it!
Cheers!
Husky
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MGB,
Your AFOQT and PCSM score make you very competitive for a Guard or Reserve UPT Slot!
I give all my clients this advice when it comes to “how do I start with the Guard and Reserve?”
Pretty simple: What is important to you? Is it Airframe? Location of the Unit? How will I be able to balance a civilian and military job? Are there full-time opportunities at the Unit?
Lots of different variables. However, right them down and rank in order “what are the most important things to you?’
Once you filter that out, it will make researching and visiting a Guard or Reserve Unit easier because the units you choose probably have members who are just like you!
As for age, I never say never, but fighters might be a “stretch”. You will probably have better luck with Mobility Air Forces (MAF) units (C-130, C-17, KC-135, KC-46).
As Husky said, lots of resources available to you here at Bogidope to help guide you through this process.
Looking forward to helping you out!
D.J.
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