exNavyOffRec
Well-Known Member
That 285+ to be competitive stuff is bullshit. Over the last three boards there have been several individuals picked up with high 260-275 PFTs. Does running a 285+ put you in a stronger position for selection? Perhaps? Beyond the members that sit on the selection board, no one can tell you what a competitive score is. Why? Because each package is made up of more parts than just a PFT, and every group of candidates will have a different spread of scores and qualities. The board members are looking for candidates that exemplify the qualities of a Marine Officer, which goes much deeper than being able to PT all day. This is not to say that you should allow your PFT to suffer, each part of your package should be as strong as you can possibly make it, but absolutely do not allow yourself to be discouraged from applying to a board because you're "only" running a 285 or 298. The worst thing that can happen is that you are non-select, and if that happens you pick yourself back up and improve for the next board. What do you think that shows? Initiative, Perseverance, Dedication, a drive to work hard at something that is not easy because you want it. It shows that you're not going to give up when things get tough. Those are the things that will eventually lead to a select.
I think the OSO's have a lot of say in the applicants application, more than the the USN OR's, the OSO that was in the same area as me seemed push his guys to be over 290, he ended up quietly sending over a few guys that seemed to top off at 285, they ended up getting picked up SNA.