Daytona Beach Campus

Pilot or Combat Systems Operator

Competition for rated slots is based on merit and is very competitive. The Air Force seeks the highest qualified applicants for Pilot, Navigator and Air Battle Manager career fields. A selection board at AFROTC Headquarters, not at local detachments, determines rated positions. Selection for a rated position is based on a cadet's Order of Merit, which is determined by the following criteria:

  • Cumulative GPA
  • Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) results: based on a 100-point scale and consisting of sit-ups, push ups and a one-and-a-half mile run.
  • Pilot Candidate Scoring Method (PCSM) results:

    • Comprised of:

    • Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT) Pilot score: a standardized, multiple-choice test similar to the SAT in format. AFOQTs are administered several times during the school year. Cadets may take the AFOQT twice (six months apart) with the most recent score being used towards the PCSM score.
    • Test of Basic Aviation Skills (TBAS) score: Consists of five sub-tests which measure psychomotor skills, cognitive aptitude and personality traits.
    • Total flying hours: While flying hours contribute to the overall PCSM score, they constitute only a small percentage of the total. While helpful, it is not necessary to have flight hours to get a rated position.
  • Field Training (FT) Results: Cadets train and are selected for FT. This is a mandatory program designed to develop leadership and discipline and to determine potential for entry into the Professional Officer Course. FT typically occurs between the sophomore and the junior year.
  • Commander's Ranking: The Detachment Commander evaluates cadets based on the "whole person" concept and ranks them in relation to their peers. Overall officership potential is determined based on (but not limited to) a cadet's maturity, judgment and overall performance within cadet corps.

NOTE: Academic major is not a factor for rated selection, contrary to popular belief. A cadet interested in a rated slot and majoring in Aeronautical Science or Aerospace Engineering, for example, is not given higher consideration over a cadet majoring in Psychology.

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