Your degree can be in any subject of your choosing. However, fields of study like engineering, physics, mathematics, geography, and meteorology will translate especially well to the kind of duties you’ll be performing as a pilot. [2] X Research source It’s a good idea to enroll at your earliest convenience to give yourself plenty of time to meet your academic requirements, especially if you’ll be also be working while you’re in school.
Follow-up screenings typically involve physical examinations and tests designed to show that you’re built to operate aircraft safely.
Even common sight defects such as partial color blindness or astigmatism could be enough to disqualify you and put an end to your journey before it begins. In rare cases, it may be possible for your commanding officers to request a waiver if they think that you’d be a good candidate for a pilot position despite testing below standard for vision. Keep in mind that it could take several months for your waiver to be approved. [6] X Research source
All 5 branches of the U. S. military train and employ pilots for various types of air missions. However, the majority of combat initiatives are carried out by the Air Force and the Navy. [8] X Research source Joining the military is a big commitment, one that comes with a high degree of responsibility and potential risk. Take some time to consider your options in-depth before coming to a decision.
If you plan on becoming a Marine, you’ll need to retake your PFT every 6 months to ensure that you’re staying in peak condition. You can start preparing for your PFT in advance by doing things like building your endurance and performing calisthenics exercises regularly. [10] X Research source
The resistance added to each exercise in the strength component is a factor of your individual body weight. To figure out how much weight you’ll be expected to bench press, for example, you would multiply your weight by 0. 8. The FACT is a separate physical exam administered specifically to pilots. The exercises that comprise it revolve around conditioning the body to withstand high amounts of G-forces in flight.
Scoring is grouped into 4 values—1 cumulative score for the MST, RCT, and MCT, which determine your Officer Aptitude Rating (OAR for short), and 3 separate scores for the remaining subjects. If you happen to fail the ASTB on your first attempt, you can retake it up to 2 times. After that, you won’t be permitted to take it again. [13] X Research source
It’s not necessary to have any independent flight experience prior to beginning your formal flight training. Along with fundamental combat aviation skills, you’ll be learning key support, safety, and emergency protocols and leadership principles, all of which are meant to shape you into the best pilot you can possibly be. [16] X Research source
Following your specialized undergraduate training, you’ll be pushed into 1 of 4 advanced training tracks depending on your performance and overall class standing. Different tracts are centered around different aircraft, operation protocols, and aviation skills. Be aware that it could take you anywhere from 14 to 49 weeks to complete your advanced flight training. This makes it one of the most intensive training programs in the entire U. S. military.
As part of this investigation, officials will look at factors like your citizenship status, education and employment history, and known organizational affiliations. Assuming you make it through the initial phase, they’ll also interview your friends, relatives, and other personal acquaintances. [19] X Research source In some cases, SSBI investigators may also run a National Agency Check with Local Agency Check and Credit Check (NACLC) on your live-in spouses or roommates.
