Which Navy Wide Advancement Exam Candidate Group?
The Navy Wide Advancement Exam (NWAE) is a standardized test designed to assess a sailor’s knowledge and skills in their rate or job. The exam is administered by the Navy’s Fleet Readiness Centers and is used to determine promotion eligibility for active duty and Reserve sailors. But, did you know that not all sailors take the same NWAE? There are three different NWAE candidate groups, each with its own unique requirements and eligibility criteria.
Candidate Group 1: Eligible for Enlisted Advancement
- Sailors with 12 or more years of active service: If you’ve served for at least 12 years, you’re eligible to take the NWAE for enlisted advancement.
- Must have completed Advanced Individual Training (AIT) or Technical Training: Sailors who have completed AIT or Technical Training are eligible to take the NWAE, regardless of their years of service.
- Meet the CNO’s vision: Sailors must meet the Chief of Naval Operations’ (CNO) vision for the Navy’s personnel system, which includes requirements for leadership, education, and career progression.
Candidate Group 2: Eligible for Limited Duty Officer (LDO) Advancement
- Sailors with 13 or more years of active service: If you’ve served for at least 13 years, you’re eligible to take the NWAE for LDO advancement.
- Must have a bachelor’s degree: Sailors who have a bachelor’s degree are eligible to take the NWAE for LDO advancement.
- Meet the CNO’s vision: Like Candidate Group 1, sailors must meet the CNO’s vision for the Navy’s personnel system.
Candidate Group 3: Eligible for Warrant Officer Advancement
- Sailors with 14 or more years of active service: If you’ve served for at least 14 years, you’re eligible to take the NWAE for Warrant Officer advancement.
- Must have a bachelor’s degree and specialized knowledge or skills: Sailors who have a bachelor’s degree and specialized knowledge or skills in a specific field are eligible to take the NWAE for Warrant Officer advancement.
- Meet the CNO’s vision: Sailors must meet the CNO’s vision for the Navy’s personnel system.
Important Dates and Deadlines
- NWAE Administration: The NWAE is administered twice a year, in March and September.
- Candidate Group Deadline: Candidates must submit their NWAE eligibility package and take the exam within 12 months of their intended advancement date.
- Results Release: NWAE results are typically released within 60-90 days of the exam administration date.
Benefits of NWAE Advancement
- Promotion Opportunities: The NWAE provides promotion opportunities for active duty and Reserve sailors, allowing them to advance in their careers and take on new challenges.
- Increased Responsibility: Advancement through the NWAE provides sailors with increased responsibility and leadership opportunities, which can lead to greater job satisfaction and a sense of fulfillment.
- Better Compensation: Advancement through the NWAE can result in increased compensation and benefits, which can improve a sailor’s quality of life and overall well-being.
NWAE Eligibility Package
- Form 1069/7: The NWAE eligibility package requires sailors to complete Form 1069/7, which provides a detailed description of their work experience, training, and qualifications.
- Ratings and Descriptions: Sailors must provide a list of their ratings and descriptions, as well as any relevant education and training.
- Recommendations: Candidates may provide letters of recommendation from their supervisors or other senior leaders to support their NWAE eligibility.
Conclusion
The NWAE is a critical tool for advancing in the Navy, providing promotion opportunities and increased responsibility for active duty and Reserve sailors. But, did you know that not all sailors take the same NWAE? The three different candidate groups have unique requirements and eligibility criteria, which must be met in order to take the exam. By understanding which candidate group you belong to, you can better prepare for the exam and achieve your career advancement goals.
