Does Air Force Take Prior Service?
If you’re a veteran or an individual with prior military service, you may be wondering if the Air Force accepts prior service members for enlistment or commissioning. The answer is yes, the Air Force does accept prior service members, and this article will guide you through the process and highlight the benefits of joining the Air Force as a prior service member.
Types of Prior Service
The Air Force accepts prior service members who have served in the military, including:
- Active Duty: Prior service members who have served in the Air Force or other branches of the military, including the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard.
- Reserve and National Guard: Prior service members who have served in the Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard, or other reserve components.
- Warrant Officers: Prior service warrant officers who have served in the Air Force or other branches of the military.
- Veterans: Prior service members who have served in the military and have not been discharged or separated for at least 180 days.
Benefits of Joining the Air Force as Prior Service
Joining the Air Force as a prior service member has several benefits, including:
- Veteran’s Preference: Prior service members are eligible for veteran’s preference points when applying for Air Force jobs.
- Prior Learning Credit: The Air Force recognizes prior service training and experience, which can translate to credits towards Air Force technical training.
- Faster Promotion: Prior service members may be eligible for faster promotion due to their prior experience and training.
- Increased Base Pay: Prior service members may be eligible for higher base pay due to their prior experience and training.
Enlistment Process for Prior Service
The enlistment process for prior service members is similar to that of new recruits, with some exceptions. Prior service members must:
- Meet Eligibility Requirements: Prior service members must meet the Air Force’s eligibility requirements, including age, citizenship, and education.
- Apply for Prior Service Enlistment: Prior service members must submit an application for prior service enlistment, which includes providing documentation of their prior military service.
- ASVAB Test: Prior service members must take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test to determine their aptitude for various Air Force jobs.
- Medical Evaluation: Prior service members must undergo a medical evaluation to ensure they meet the Air Force’s physical fitness standards.
- Background Check: Prior service members must undergo a background check to ensure they have no felony convictions or other disqualifying factors.
Commissioning Process for Prior Service
The commissioning process for prior service members is similar to that of new officers, with some exceptions. Prior service members must:
- Meet Eligibility Requirements: Prior service members must meet the Air Force’s eligibility requirements for officer commissioning, including education and training.
- Apply for Officer Commissioning: Prior service members must submit an application for officer commissioning, which includes providing documentation of their prior military service and education.
- Officer Qualifying Test: Prior service members must take the Officer Qualifying Test (OQT) to assess their knowledge and skills.
- Interview with a Board: Prior service members must interview with a board of officers to determine their suitability for commissioning.
- Commissioning Ceremony: Prior service members who are selected for commissioning will participate in a commissioning ceremony, during which they will be officially commissioned as officers.
Table: Prior Service Commissioning Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Meet Eligibility Requirements | Meet Air Force eligibility requirements for officer commissioning |
| Apply for Officer Commissioning | Submit application and supporting documentation |
| Officer Qualifying Test | Take OQT to assess knowledge and skills |
| Interview with a Board | Interview with a board of officers |
| Commissioning Ceremony | Officially commissioned as an officer |
Conclusion
The Air Force accepts prior service members for enlistment and commissioning, and the process is similar to that of new recruits and new officers, respectively. Prior service members have several benefits, including veteran’s preference, prior learning credit, faster promotion, and increased base pay. If you’re a prior service member considering joining the Air Force, we hope this article has provided you with valuable information to help you get started.
