Another older guy chances

[Rover125]

I have been studying for AQOFT but have not taken yet due to family/work. I am doing pretty well on subtests but the math/arithmetic is where I need the most improvement.

One of the squadrons I am interested in is hiring for UPT that has an early November deadline for applications. I am not sure if I can get enough practice done in time to take the tests and still submit the application in time. The problem is my age (now 29) and they do not hire above 30.

Would I be better off just waiting it out another month or two and likely improving my scores and just let this chance with this squadron go? Another squadron I am interested in will be accepting application around Jan-Feb. 2024, so would be more prepared for the test, despite being a little older. This is the one closest to my home and is a fighter squadron, so I know age will work against me. Although they advertise not interviewing applicants older than 30. 

-Civilian Background (legacy airline) 

-A little over 5000hrs, multiple type ratings, former check airman

-2.7 GPA that I finished after flying professionally

-Studying constantly for AFOQT so I can get 90+ score

Again, I know age will work against me particularly with the local fighter squadron. I would love to fly for this squadron but I am aware with my age that I will likely have to expand my search. Do you think I'd have a shot at any squadron and would it be best to wait for the local squadron hiring in January? Thank you.

[brabus]

How long have you been studying/taking practice tests? You may be at a point of diminishing returns and it’s best to just rip the bandaid off and take the test (and at least be able to make the app deadline in Nov). At some point, “a couple more months” isn’t going to make a difference in the test outcome.

[Rover125]

I've only gotten really focused the last few weeks. Biggest hurdle for me was regaining all that math knowledge/arithmetic reasoning that I forgot about. Now I have gotten in a groove of studying and doing practice tests. Spend a couple hours a day at least spread across the subtests. Perhaps I hesitate since I feel that if I take the test within the next few weeks, I may not get a good enough score that will last mean into the new year when applying to other units.

The downside would be if I wait until November to take it, there will be another squadron that I likely won't get looked at next year. If I was younger I wouldn't hesitate waiting, but I know it's literally now or never and time is not on the side, so I need to keep as many options open as possible.

[Rover125]

1 hour ago, brabus said:

How long have you been studying/taking practice tests? You may be at a point of diminishing returns and it’s best to just rip the bandaid off and take the test (and at least be able to make the app deadline in Nov). At some point, “a couple more months” isn’t going to make a difference in the test outcome.

I guess put another way, would the "x" amount of extra points if I waited until November be worth it when it comes to a hiring board? Another concern would be if I did poorly on the test next month, I may have to wait too long to retest by the time my desired squadron would be hiring in January-February, thus being stuck with a lower score.

[Sketch]

Which specific sections are you studying for? Have you been focusing on the ones that make up the pilot score or all of them?

[Rover125]

On 9/22/2023 at 1:42 PM, Sketch said:

Which specific sections are you studying for? Have you been focusing on the ones that make up the pilot score or all of them?

I decided against moving forward with the test. It’s just not for me after all. 
 

I am going to pursue professional baseball umpiring as another career. Some opportunities that won’t require the same level commitment as the ANG.

[Magic24]

35 minutes ago, Rover125 said:

I decided against moving forward with the test. It’s just not for me after all. 
 

I am going to pursue professional baseball umpiring as another career. Some opportunities that won’t require the same level commitment as the ANG.

 

[Rover125]

15 hours ago, Magic24 said:

 

Thanks. This is my shot and I’m going to take it.