mate
just apply. i'm in the navy fast jet pipeline at the mo, and it would seem the crabs are having snags with too many numbers and not enough places to fill so even those who pass courses are being scrutinised. if they are low average they may still be chopped despite passing the course thus filling the light blue rotary and ME slots.
best advice i got when going for aib was be myself and don't try to bulls**t the board. they'll see right through you. but don't forget the guys who usher you between interview stages at the aib are also consulted at the decision making! also your age is not against you, many of the guys i joined with were in their mid twenties.
best of luck