jerkybeef4
SNA-BDCP Applicant
I didn’t use the formula sheet because I didn’t know there was one
I think it was solid to have the formulas memorized though
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1,001 questions about the ASTB (post your scores & ask your questions here!)
- Thread starter edato
- Start date
I think it was solid to have the formulas memorized thoughHey ya'll, just took the ASTB for the first time yesterday and scored a 53 7/9/8. Wanted to share some advice and tips, as many do here, from my experience. Thank you to all in this thread who have helped me along the way!
To give some background, I graduated from college this past May with a Bachelor's of Arts in Psychology and a Minor in Family Studies with a 3.91 GPA. I was worried about math and mechanics mainly as I knew I hadn't done much math since high school due to my major, and I never took any physics classes throughout my academic career, so I knew I needed to focus on these areas most. To study I mainly used the ASTB Prep App, Gomez Drive math worksheets, Gomez Drive mechanics practice tests, Jantzen SIM, and the CRAM flashcards everyone uses, along with the Quizlet folder for ANIT from this post HungryGoliath2018's Quizlet Folder.
Math: This section of the test was pretty easy after having gone through the Gomez worksheets and ASTB Prep App topics. Ran into some simple geometry (some simple geometry formulas provided on the test), probability, logarithms, fractions, and simplifying complex polynomials; that's all I can remember. I did use a tutor to get me back into the math concepts, which I would highly recommend if you know math is an area you struggle in; especially since math has the most weight out of the OAR toward your AQR, PFAR, and FOFAR. Kicked me out with about 10 minutes left.
Reading: As many say, boring lol. The passages aren't too long but it can be hard to choose the correct answer as many of them could be true, but you are looking for the one you can simply infer from the information you're given. Not much to say here, just try your best. I didn't practice reading at all before the test. Used up all of the time.
Mechanics: Only used the Gomez drive practice tests and ASTB Prep App to study. Very simple but I'm not very good at mechanics so it was a little harder for me lol. Some easy questions I had to calculate for such as work or velocity. Know the formulas and simple machines and you should be set here, especially if it's one of your strong suits.
ANIT: Study the CRAM flashcards and the Quizlet set I've linked above, as well as all info provided from the ASTB Prep App and this section should be a walk in the park. Had to guess on a couple I've never seen before across any of the Gauges people have shared but it was simple to use process of elimination.
UAV & Terrain ID: USE UAV AND TERRAIN ID PRACTICE TESTS FROM THE PREP APP!!! I cannot stress enough how easy these two sections are if you practice using the app. Get your reaction time below 2 secs for the UAV portion and make sure you practice using the hard mode that uses NE, SE, NW, and SW directions, as these popped up on my test. For TID, I don't think time matters much, I used up almost all 30 seconds sometimes. It is a lot easier on the test than it is on the app; so if you become good on the app, it shouldn't be a problem on the test.
Stick & Throttle + DLT & Emergency Procedures: If you have the money buy the X52 to practice. Use the Jantzen SIM every night before bed on the highest difficulty. The test is much easier if you practice this way as it is around 2.5 notches up from the medium difficulty of the SIM. I didn't practice Emergency Procedures at all, but its extremely easy if you just write down the instructions they give you for each scenario and reference it as it happens. It's important to do your best to keep tracking as the EP appear, so keep that in mind and don't stop just to flip the switches where they need to go.
During the test I thought I was doing awful and would need to retake, but to my surprise, I qualified for ISEL first try. By no means should you follow my advice to a T; practice what you're weakest in, go through all of the Gomez drive you can, and try your best to memorize as much as you can for ANIT. Remember to take a breath between tests, if you feel like you're doing bad ignore that feeling, don't think about past tests as it progresses or say "dang I think I got that wrong," what's important is giving 110% to each question that comes up or the next test, regardless of if you think you missed one or not. Overall, study as much as you can, I studied for a week straight leading up to my test and that's the only thing I focused on. It's not as bad as you think I promise; come prepared and ready and remember you have 3 tries, 1 bad test will not define you for the rest of your career.
I'm off to medical now which I believe is my biggest hurdle. You all got this, believe in yourself, and go 110% in everything you do. I wish you all the best of luck, and perhaps we'll see each other at OCS and Flight School one day!
To give some background, I graduated from college this past May with a Bachelor's of Arts in Psychology and a Minor in Family Studies with a 3.91 GPA. I was worried about math and mechanics mainly as I knew I hadn't done much math since high school due to my major, and I never took any physics classes throughout my academic career, so I knew I needed to focus on these areas most. To study I mainly used the ASTB Prep App, Gomez Drive math worksheets, Gomez Drive mechanics practice tests, Jantzen SIM, and the CRAM flashcards everyone uses, along with the Quizlet folder for ANIT from this post HungryGoliath2018's Quizlet Folder.
Math: This section of the test was pretty easy after having gone through the Gomez worksheets and ASTB Prep App topics. Ran into some simple geometry (some simple geometry formulas provided on the test), probability, logarithms, fractions, and simplifying complex polynomials; that's all I can remember. I did use a tutor to get me back into the math concepts, which I would highly recommend if you know math is an area you struggle in; especially since math has the most weight out of the OAR toward your AQR, PFAR, and FOFAR. Kicked me out with about 10 minutes left.
Reading: As many say, boring lol. The passages aren't too long but it can be hard to choose the correct answer as many of them could be true, but you are looking for the one you can simply infer from the information you're given. Not much to say here, just try your best. I didn't practice reading at all before the test. Used up all of the time.
Mechanics: Only used the Gomez drive practice tests and ASTB Prep App to study. Very simple but I'm not very good at mechanics so it was a little harder for me lol. Some easy questions I had to calculate for such as work or velocity. Know the formulas and simple machines and you should be set here, especially if it's one of your strong suits.
ANIT: Study the CRAM flashcards and the Quizlet set I've linked above, as well as all info provided from the ASTB Prep App and this section should be a walk in the park. Had to guess on a couple I've never seen before across any of the Gauges people have shared but it was simple to use process of elimination.
UAV & Terrain ID: USE UAV AND TERRAIN ID PRACTICE TESTS FROM THE PREP APP!!! I cannot stress enough how easy these two sections are if you practice using the app. Get your reaction time below 2 secs for the UAV portion and make sure you practice using the hard mode that uses NE, SE, NW, and SW directions, as these popped up on my test. For TID, I don't think time matters much, I used up almost all 30 seconds sometimes. It is a lot easier on the test than it is on the app; so if you become good on the app, it shouldn't be a problem on the test.
Stick & Throttle + DLT & Emergency Procedures: If you have the money buy the X52 to practice. Use the Jantzen SIM every night before bed on the highest difficulty. The test is much easier if you practice this way as it is around 2.5 notches up from the medium difficulty of the SIM. I didn't practice Emergency Procedures at all, but its extremely easy if you just write down the instructions they give you for each scenario and reference it as it happens. It's important to do your best to keep tracking as the EP appear, so keep that in mind and don't stop just to flip the switches where they need to go.
During the test I thought I was doing awful and would need to retake, but to my surprise, I qualified for ISEL first try. By no means should you follow my advice to a T; practice what you're weakest in, go through all of the Gomez drive you can, and try your best to memorize as much as you can for ANIT. Remember to take a breath between tests, if you feel like you're doing bad ignore that feeling, don't think about past tests as it progresses or say "dang I think I got that wrong," what's important is giving 110% to each question that comes up or the next test, regardless of if you think you missed one or not. Overall, study as much as you can, I studied for a week straight leading up to my test and that's the only thing I focused on. It's not as bad as you think I promise; come prepared and ready and remember you have 3 tries, 1 bad test will not define you for the rest of your career.
I'm off to medical now which I believe is my biggest hurdle. You all got this, believe in yourself, and go 110% in everything you do. I wish you all the best of luck, and perhaps we'll see each other at OCS and Flight School one day!
Nohopenaldo
Member
Some wisdom would be nice from the people here:
first attempt half asleep got a 5/7/5, my recruiter is insisting that I dont retake it but I genuinely believe I can get a 7/7/7 specially when i got 1 wrong on the emergency because it the buttons were mapped differently and on the UAV i got 3 wrong because the sound giving me the direction threw me off and I had to remove my headset after that. Should I follow my recruiter's advice and send it or retake it for a better score? i dont qualify for I-SEL as I needed a reenlisting waiver anyways.
first attempt half asleep got a 5/7/5, my recruiter is insisting that I dont retake it but I genuinely believe I can get a 7/7/7 specially when i got 1 wrong on the emergency because it the buttons were mapped differently and on the UAV i got 3 wrong because the sound giving me the direction threw me off and I had to remove my headset after that. Should I follow my recruiter's advice and send it or retake it for a better score? i dont qualify for I-SEL as I needed a reenlisting waiver anyways.
fighter-cat22
SNA BDCP Applicant
Considering the back up for the SNA boards right now you probably have time to retest.
Nohopenaldo
Member
that was my logic too. If you apply and dont get selected, do you get submitted for the following board or do you have to wait a specific period? Next board convenes in March so I might just hit the books hard and retake it.
fighter-cat22
SNA BDCP Applicant
Pretty sure if they “Pro-Rec No” you, then you have to wait an allotted time before submitting again unless you make a major change to your package. If the board is cancelled then they’ll automatically move you into the next one.
Nohopenaldo
Member
Corrected, my question was more regarding if there was an allotted/timeout time. thank you for answering. I might hit the books and take it in early January. 3 months should be enough.
fighter-cat22
SNA BDCP Applicant
That’s more than enough time. Considering you already know what to expect on the test, I’m certain you’ll do great.
aagmanrelan
Member
Hello,
I am thinking of retaking my ASTB
My first attempt was 66 8/6/7
I am trying get I-SEL scores so that I do not have to worry about board cancellations.
Are there any suggestions from Re-takers on how should I prepare.
I am thinking of retaking my ASTB
My first attempt was 66 8/6/7
I am trying get I-SEL scores so that I do not have to worry about board cancellations.
Are there any suggestions from Re-takers on how should I prepare.
Nohopenaldo
Member
if you qualify for I-SEL on paper, I personally would specially since we have till January for the March Board. i got 5/7/5 and I'm going to retake it. I have a feeling it's going to get competitive before FY27.
Not a retaker but your OAR scores seem high. Based on trends (oar vs aqr/pfar/fofar scores) I would assume your ur PBM portion fell short. You could probably replicate a similar OAR score anyway, so just brush up on the ANIT stuff from the cram flashcards, and really focus on PBM. Get a x52 from ebay or something if you don't have it already. Practice the UAV until you don't have to process the direction in ur head. Practice the terrain association following the compass trick or until you come up with ur own little tricks.
Nohopenaldo
Member
100% this. your OAR scores are really high so I genuinely think you can easily get 7/7/7 now that you know how the test is administrated
BenMSpeaks
New Member
Hi everyone,
Just took the ASTB-E today and scored a 58 7/7/7! All credit goes to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
Here are some tips:
Math: This section blindsided me. I thought I was prepared but I'm pretty sure I did bad. Make sure you know how to simplify huge polynomials. ACT math seemed pretty similar from what I remember. It kicked me out after 17 questions I think.
Reading: Eliminate incorrect answers. Stay locked in. If an answer isn't 100% from the passage rule it out.
Mechanics: Seemed super easy to me. Just practice, I saw quite a few questions I had seen before actually (a lot from the app you can download below).
ANIT: Know aircraft anatomy. Don't remember any history questions. I studied more for this section than any other, and I felt like I did well on it.
NATFI: Did not hate this section as much as most people. Just be honest and eat some trail mix while you do it.
PBM: Use Jantzen sim and OAR Prep App. Drop some cash and get the joystick + throttle (X52 Saitek/Hotas), my personal one was the exact same one that I had in the test. I got 100% on the UAV Sim. I think I did okay on the terrain navigation, but I heard you may not need that if you're going pilot, just NFO? Joystick and throttle were not hard. Also, the way the test was for the Dichotic Listening portion was if you hear an odd OR even number in the target ear, press the trigger (even numbers, right hand) or the clutch (odd numbers, left hand). I believe the Jantzen sim says "Press the trigger if you hear an even number in your left ear" vs. the real thing: "press the trigger if you hear an even number in your target ear". Someone correct me if I'm wrong about the Jantzen sim.
Overall Tips:
- The FIRST THING YOU SHOULD DO is read the section of this that has to do with the ASTB-E: https://www.docdroid.net/Ebpc2bm/peterson-study-book-pdf . To my knowledge, it is the best guide for the test. Also, you should know how the scores interrelate to some degree, so you're not thinking "I can do bad on this section because I'm really good at this section, etc."
- Figure out where you're weak and work on it. I didn't take high school physics so that was a disadvantage, I practiced that extra. I had never flown an airplane so I learned as much as I could about airplanes. I was good at reading because of high school debate and kinda practiced for that one.
- Stay calm! I think I bombed the math section at least partially because I was so nervous at the beginning.
Must-Have Resources:
- ASTB Prep App (mostly helpful for ANIT and PBM): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eagleedge.astboarprep&hl=en-US
- Jantzen Sim: https://jomo1-1.github.io/ASTB-remade/
- X52 Hotas/Saitek controller (this is new, probably save some money and buy used): https://www.officesupply.com/techno...1181&msclkid=874879b5a056132d205c1151c9c682e9
- ASTB Tutoring (this app is lame in a lot of ways, but for the Mechanics and ANIT it is really good): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/astb-tutoring/id1559384853
Just took the ASTB-E today and scored a 58 7/7/7! All credit goes to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
Here are some tips:
Math: This section blindsided me. I thought I was prepared but I'm pretty sure I did bad. Make sure you know how to simplify huge polynomials. ACT math seemed pretty similar from what I remember. It kicked me out after 17 questions I think.
Reading: Eliminate incorrect answers. Stay locked in. If an answer isn't 100% from the passage rule it out.
Mechanics: Seemed super easy to me. Just practice, I saw quite a few questions I had seen before actually (a lot from the app you can download below).
ANIT: Know aircraft anatomy. Don't remember any history questions. I studied more for this section than any other, and I felt like I did well on it.
NATFI: Did not hate this section as much as most people. Just be honest and eat some trail mix while you do it.
PBM: Use Jantzen sim and OAR Prep App. Drop some cash and get the joystick + throttle (X52 Saitek/Hotas), my personal one was the exact same one that I had in the test. I got 100% on the UAV Sim. I think I did okay on the terrain navigation, but I heard you may not need that if you're going pilot, just NFO? Joystick and throttle were not hard. Also, the way the test was for the Dichotic Listening portion was if you hear an odd OR even number in the target ear, press the trigger (even numbers, right hand) or the clutch (odd numbers, left hand). I believe the Jantzen sim says "Press the trigger if you hear an even number in your left ear" vs. the real thing: "press the trigger if you hear an even number in your target ear". Someone correct me if I'm wrong about the Jantzen sim.
Overall Tips:
- The FIRST THING YOU SHOULD DO is read the section of this that has to do with the ASTB-E: https://www.docdroid.net/Ebpc2bm/peterson-study-book-pdf . To my knowledge, it is the best guide for the test. Also, you should know how the scores interrelate to some degree, so you're not thinking "I can do bad on this section because I'm really good at this section, etc."
- Figure out where you're weak and work on it. I didn't take high school physics so that was a disadvantage, I practiced that extra. I had never flown an airplane so I learned as much as I could about airplanes. I was good at reading because of high school debate and kinda practiced for that one.
- Stay calm! I think I bombed the math section at least partially because I was so nervous at the beginning.
Must-Have Resources:
- ASTB Prep App (mostly helpful for ANIT and PBM): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eagleedge.astboarprep&hl=en-US
- Jantzen Sim: https://jomo1-1.github.io/ASTB-remade/
- X52 Hotas/Saitek controller (this is new, probably save some money and buy used): https://www.officesupply.com/techno...1181&msclkid=874879b5a056132d205c1151c9c682e9
- ASTB Tutoring (this app is lame in a lot of ways, but for the Mechanics and ANIT it is really good): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/astb-tutoring/id1559384853
jerkybeef4
SNA-BDCP Applicant
Awesome scores best of luck to you!
foolishjuan
STA-21 SNA Applicant
SEEKING GUIDANCE ON MY SITUATION:
SORRY FOR LONG POST ANY FEEDBACK IS GREATLY APPRECIATED!!
I am currently Active Duty submitting for STA-21 (Pilot option), unfortunately I was not selected this year again, and have about two more years of eligibility. My main problem is my ASTB scores. My first attempt was a laughable 3/3/4, (2021) at the time I was unaware of the lifetime attempts limit of three and the extensiveness of the exam. I was told it was a requirement, and I just sent it. That was a mistake. My second attempt wasn't until May 2024, I was studying for the SAT and ASTB in tandem and didn't perform well on the ASTB 2/4/4 but, my SAT scores were decent. Also, this exam was rushed due to me going Underway for my ships work up cycle and not knowing if I had a chance to take it before the 1 JUL submission date for STA-21.
Throughout all of work up phase I studied as much as I could being an LPO of 80-160 Sailors at any given time, and lack of internet or materials while underway. I downloaded the ASTB Prep app and tried to spend at least 2-3 hours a day on there. I was finally showing progress and understanding the information, so I wanted to try my third and final attempt. However, I am deployed so that's almost impossible, except that I got lucky and a test proctor happened to be on deployment with us and had the testing equipment on board. So, May 2025 I got my test date and planned to take it on the ship, everything was working fine until I started taking the exam. The exam logged me out over 10 times, gave me black screens, skipped instructional portions, and would freeze for up to 10 minuets at a time. After about 5 hours of testing/ troubleshooting I scored a 3/4/5 which is still below the minimum. I was crushed and basically had to accept I'd never fly in the navy or marines. My proctor reached out to Apex and after reviewing my test I was granted a retake on my performance-based measures portion. I'm currently working on a request to retake the entire thing but if that does not happen it will just be for PBM.
My question is if the retake for the whole ASTB is not granted, will redoing PBM actually effect my overall scores? According to Apex each score has the potential to be affected by my PBM retake, for my ASTB wizards is this true? and do you think it will get me to the 4/5/5 mark (Minimum scores for navy) or higher if I was to ace the PBM?
FAQ:
Q: why not OCS
A: I'm already 8 years AD and I don't think I can complete a bachelors in 2 years while on the Ship on deployment, and with another one scheduled right after. I cannot compete with the 18- and 19-year-olds in here getting 9/9/9 OR 8/8/8 I have the leadership, accolades, etc. but definitely not the scores. Also, in my opinion my package is more geared toward STA-21 vis OCS.
Q: Why not study harder
A: I downloaded the resources I found in these forums to use underway, but didn't have access to all of them, and I gave my best shot at it or so I thought and fell short.
Q: Why not try something else?
A: Currently I'm not ready to give up, ultimately it could be denial, but I still believe I have a fighting chance VIA STA-21 after getting some more college credits.
Again, any feedback is appreciated even negative, I will take it in stride. Just want to talk to people about this who may have a better understand or a way forward. Lastly I have a redacted copy of this year's STA21 package if you want to see what caliber of sailor I am or have ideas for a way forward! Thank you!
SORRY FOR LONG POST ANY FEEDBACK IS GREATLY APPRECIATED!!
I am currently Active Duty submitting for STA-21 (Pilot option), unfortunately I was not selected this year again, and have about two more years of eligibility. My main problem is my ASTB scores. My first attempt was a laughable 3/3/4, (2021) at the time I was unaware of the lifetime attempts limit of three and the extensiveness of the exam. I was told it was a requirement, and I just sent it. That was a mistake. My second attempt wasn't until May 2024, I was studying for the SAT and ASTB in tandem and didn't perform well on the ASTB 2/4/4 but, my SAT scores were decent. Also, this exam was rushed due to me going Underway for my ships work up cycle and not knowing if I had a chance to take it before the 1 JUL submission date for STA-21.
Throughout all of work up phase I studied as much as I could being an LPO of 80-160 Sailors at any given time, and lack of internet or materials while underway. I downloaded the ASTB Prep app and tried to spend at least 2-3 hours a day on there. I was finally showing progress and understanding the information, so I wanted to try my third and final attempt. However, I am deployed so that's almost impossible, except that I got lucky and a test proctor happened to be on deployment with us and had the testing equipment on board. So, May 2025 I got my test date and planned to take it on the ship, everything was working fine until I started taking the exam. The exam logged me out over 10 times, gave me black screens, skipped instructional portions, and would freeze for up to 10 minuets at a time. After about 5 hours of testing/ troubleshooting I scored a 3/4/5 which is still below the minimum. I was crushed and basically had to accept I'd never fly in the navy or marines. My proctor reached out to Apex and after reviewing my test I was granted a retake on my performance-based measures portion. I'm currently working on a request to retake the entire thing but if that does not happen it will just be for PBM.
My question is if the retake for the whole ASTB is not granted, will redoing PBM actually effect my overall scores? According to Apex each score has the potential to be affected by my PBM retake, for my ASTB wizards is this true? and do you think it will get me to the 4/5/5 mark (Minimum scores for navy) or higher if I was to ace the PBM?
FAQ:
Q: why not OCS
A: I'm already 8 years AD and I don't think I can complete a bachelors in 2 years while on the Ship on deployment, and with another one scheduled right after. I cannot compete with the 18- and 19-year-olds in here getting 9/9/9 OR 8/8/8 I have the leadership, accolades, etc. but definitely not the scores. Also, in my opinion my package is more geared toward STA-21 vis OCS.
Q: Why not study harder
A: I downloaded the resources I found in these forums to use underway, but didn't have access to all of them, and I gave my best shot at it or so I thought and fell short.
Q: Why not try something else?
A: Currently I'm not ready to give up, ultimately it could be denial, but I still believe I have a fighting chance VIA STA-21 after getting some more college credits.
Again, any feedback is appreciated even negative, I will take it in stride. Just want to talk to people about this who may have a better understand or a way forward. Lastly I have a redacted copy of this year's STA21 package if you want to see what caliber of sailor I am or have ideas for a way forward! Thank you!