The big difference between the ACT and the SAT is that the ACT includes a "Science" portion. This obviously doesn't impact your STA package at all, unless you consider if you bombed Science it would lower your overall score. STA is only interested in your Reading and Math scores. However, college admissions will look at the total score (if you do not have a 2-year degree already) when you apply to schools.
Both exams test the same aptitudes. The popular rumor is SAT is harder, but having taken both I would say they were equal in difficulty. I actually scored higher on my SAT which is the one I turned into my package. Both Universities and STA-21 Board won't care which exam you took.
To all of you new applicants, junior Sailors - I STRONGLY encourage you to read the FY17 STA-21 fleet brief, if you haven't already. They will update it for FY18 but 99% the information will still apply. We still have a few months before the FY18 message is released. Here's a few things you can do to help yourself out in the meantime:
- Take courses. There's a couple of semesters/quarters before packages need to be zipped up and mailed. MATH! -- If you're not AT Calculus level, knock out the pre-reqs (College Algebra, Trig). If you are, take Calc I & II. Take Physics I & II. Show the board that you are ready for and WANT this. How can the board think you are serious about your education if you aren't taking classes?
- Start pulling your record. No matter what anyone tells you, the board has no access to your ESR during the board. All they will know about you is what is included in that envelope. Get your transcripts, evals, awards, LOA/LOCs, everything in order. Start drafting your personnel statement, letters of recommendation, etc.
- Network. Try to put out feelers toward the wardroom so you can start getting your boards together. Higher ranking personnel hold more weight with regards to appraisals. However, higher ranking personnel are harder to schedule. Plan in advance.
- Learn about the community you are applying for. This is especially true if you are applying outside of your rate. Talk to the O's. Know the career path, milestones from Ensign >> Admiral within that community. Review the program authorization for what you are applying for. Know it line for line.
- Read and learn OPNAVINST 1420 1B.
- Improve physical fitness. Aim for Excellent + on 2017 Cycle I PRT.
Once the message drops (Feb-Mar), you should be at a 90% solution on your package and ready to schedule your Internal and External boards which will be the last 10%.
Finally, a piece of advice -- and this may come off as harsh to some of you -- but I'm not one for BS or blowing smoke up anyone's ass. There will be 50 or less people selected for this program, and 35-40 are going to be Nukes. If you are applying for Pilot, NFO, Intel, OCEANO, whatever, there's going to be a quota of somewhere between 0 to (mayyybe) 2. Many EXTREMELY qualified people are/will be applying for their second, third, forth time (go read the previous years' threads). If you are applying because you think having the shiniest boots in the division entitles you to a commission, you want to get school paid for, or you want to transfer early -- you need to reassess why you are doing this. This is something that requires full commitment. You will not have a chance to get picked up otherwise. Selection isn't the end goal, it's the beginning of a new struggle.
There's an immense amount of information on this site; arguably more than anywhere else re: STA-21. Former selectees are always peeking in and offering to help. Utilize all available resources.
If anyone has any questions, I am more than happy to help out and completely open for transparency.