Midshipman’s Guide to Aviation

This is not an all-inclusive summary and by no means guarantees your selection for Naval Aviation; however it will help answer some basic questions about the timeline and things you can do to increase your chances of someday wearing wings of gold.

Remember that you will always be a Naval Officer first and an Aviator second. With that, being well rounded is the hallmark of a Naval Officer: Academics, physical fitness, technical knowledge and community service are just a few of the areas in which you are expected to excel.

The component parts that go into your aviation application are GPA, PT score, class ranking and ASTB. They are weighted differently and unfortunately Pensacola keeps the percentages a secret, so it’s imperative you do well in all areas. They are looking for well-rounded people who do many different things well, not someone who is a PT stud but has a 1.6 GPA.

You can only take the ASTB 3 times in your life so it’s imperative to prepare yourself accordingly and get it right the first time. You can start by going to

NAMI is the Naval Aerospace Medical Institute and they are flight docs and researchers who come up with our medical guidelines.

Other resources:

Here’s your 4 year timeline for success. I am not your mother, father or babysitter and will not baby you through the process; however, I will bend over backwards for you if you are active in YOUR career. If you have questions, ASK!

Freshmen:

  • Join the aviation club and familiarize yourself with the platforms
  • Consult with Juniors/Seniors about the ASTB
  • Have an eye exam done to determine the need for LASIK/PRK
  • Take the ASTB if you’re prepared and ready
  • Ask questions and stay motivated

Sophomore:

  • Continue to say involved in the aviation club and ASTB prep
  • Begin counseling on any waiver issues with the Aviation Officer
  • Take the ASTB if you’re prepared and ready
  • Ask questions and stay motivated

Summer:

  • Have LASIK/PRK surgery if needed (after your summer cruise)
  • There’s a 6 month minimum “recovery” period post-surgery before you can submit a waiver request
  • Waivers have to be submitted and approved to be eligible

Junior Fall Semester:

  • Take a leadership role in the Aviation club
  • Put max effort into ASTB study and prep

Junior Spring Semester:

  • Take ASTB early in the semester so as to not interfere with coursework and midterms, etc…
  • Complete pre-commissioning physical and ensure that all waivers documents are submitted
  • Submit service selection preferences and verify that yourASTB score has been entered into OPMIS
  • REMEMBER, this is your last semester to excel before Service Selection

Summer:

  • Service Selection will take place in August before you return to school. Ensure that OPMIS and all records are up to date. See the Aviation Officer and Admin to verify.

SeniorFall:

  • Sit back and wait for the good news
  • Consult with the Aviation Lieutenant about expectations, preparations, Introductory Flight Screening (IFS), Aviation Pre-flight Indoctrination (API), moving and life in Pensacola
  • Talk with previous graduates about the “gouge”
  • Begin swimming a minimum of once per week
  • Keep your mind open about platforms, expectations and stay motivated!!!

Senior Spring:

  • Prepare for commissioning
  • Consult with the Aviation Lieutenant about expectations, preparations, Introductory Flight Screening (IFS), Aviation Pre-flight Indoctrination (API), moving and life in Pensacola
  • Talk with previous graduates about the “gouge”
  • Visit
  • Begin swimming a minimum of once per week
  • Keep your mind open about platforms, expectations and stay motivated!!!

Post Commissioning:

Enjoy all your hard work and success thus far becoming a Commissioned Officer and get ready for the ride of your life!