ocanadaperfect
I am not exactly sure about that actually. Technically I believe you can think it that way or I suggest you should think the biggest enemy is yourself. I personally reckon as long as you can fulfill their requirements, show them your PERSONALITY in the interview should be ok. Simply because personality is a very very important component they will consider. Cathay seems like to train cadets in their way. So I really dont think lack of flying experience or have 3000 jet hours what so ever will be a definite advantage. And I really dont think a 6 month AE course or a 61 weeks course will be a big difference for them as well.
But I think schweizer2 is also right as well. They can simply select who they want in either courses I reckon. It really depends on your flying experience. In fact, since they have a high demand on pilots atm. So just show yourself in the interview and you will be fine.