OFFICER and AIRCREW 'CANDIDATES' PLEASE READ THIS THREAD FIRST!
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OASC Medical (Eyesight) reply
Morning everyone,
Received my eye-sight results from the OASC this morning via my local AFCO, and it wasn't good news.
I was told I am unfit for Pilot, WSO, WSOp & WSOp (L) due to an Astigmatism in my right eye (the weaker of my eyes). I'm not sure if this means permanetly or temporarily.
I'm pretty gutted, had my heart set out on a Flying career, not even worth considering for the Royal Navy or AAC as Aircrew as my eyes aren't even close to what they as asking for.
Time to close the door on Aviation and look into another career.
Thanks.
Received my eye-sight results from the OASC this morning via my local AFCO, and it wasn't good news.
I was told I am unfit for Pilot, WSO, WSOp & WSOp (L) due to an Astigmatism in my right eye (the weaker of my eyes). I'm not sure if this means permanetly or temporarily.
I'm pretty gutted, had my heart set out on a Flying career, not even worth considering for the Royal Navy or AAC as Aircrew as my eyes aren't even close to what they as asking for.
Time to close the door on Aviation and look into another career.
Thanks.
Sorry, but if it was temporarily, they'd say so. An eye isn't going to correct itself to that degree.
Why does that bar you from the FAA and the AAC, though? Are we not constantly under the impression that their eyesight requirements are below that of the RAF's? Or are you now saying that your eyes have been discovered to be too bad for all of them?
Why does that bar you from the FAA and the AAC, though? Are we not constantly under the impression that their eyesight requirements are below that of the RAF's? Or are you now saying that your eyes have been discovered to be too bad for all of them?
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Wander00,
I already hold a ENG1 Medical for the Merchant Navy and I passed the eyesight standards for that in March 2011.
The standards were 6/60 or better in each eye. Thing is no Astigmatism was found during my eye test by a MCA Optician.
I already hold a ENG1 Medical for the Merchant Navy and I passed the eyesight standards for that in March 2011.
The standards were 6/60 or better in each eye. Thing is no Astigmatism was found during my eye test by a MCA Optician.
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OASC Bulletin 30
In this submission we will cover the updated Pilot Aptitude Test Battery.
Following a recent comprehensive analysis of the mental thought processes that are an integral element of modern day Pilot training, it was clear that a revised, more sophisticated, battery of aptitude tests was essential for the selection of candidates to operate the new, more technologically advanced platforms on the front line. In essence, the updated test battery better reveals an individual’s ability to maintain a high level of auditory and visual perception, together with rapid and accurate mental processing supported by sound short-term and medium-term memory function. Additionally, the candidate must have excellent visual-spatial ability and sound situational awareness in a highly dynamic environment. The updated Pilot battery consists of 7 different competencies that vary from Strategic Task Management to the more ‘traditional’ Psychomotor skills and represents a considerable challenge to the prospective RAF pilot.
The updated test battery is now in place and will take the candidate, on average, about 6 hours to complete (not including rest breaks). As before, the test will be scored out of 180 with the pass mark set at 112; however, OASC may impose a higher Current Competitive Score (CCS) when forecast recruitment numbers are low. Each of the tested competencies is measured on a standard nine point scale (or Stanine) and for each competency an acceptable minimum stanine has been set. Therefore, in addition to achieving the required overall score, candidates must also pass the set stanine score for each competency. OASC will only call candidates forward for the Exercise Phase who have passed the aptitude tests, and achieved a score at or above the CCS.
Aptitude scores are valid for 12 months and there is no limit on the number of times that the tests can be taken. However, as previously stated, 12 months must have elapsed from the previous test date before another attempt can be made. Furthermore, Candidates must still meet all the relevant eligibility criteria; particularly, if successful, they must be able to start Initial Officer Training before their 26th birthday.
Remember that aptitude tests are designed to test an individual’s innate ability; therefore no amount of preparation will change the outcome. However, our general advice is to arrive relaxed, well rested and ensure you have had a good breakfast as the aptitude tests will take some hours to complete.
Please note that, although OASC will endeavour to answer generic questions that arise, we will not be engaging or commenting on individual cases. In those cases, the individual is advised to contact their nearest AFCO who will be able to deal with any queries. All information published is for information only.
Information regarding a career in the RAF can be found at http://www.raf.mod.uk/careers
Following a recent comprehensive analysis of the mental thought processes that are an integral element of modern day Pilot training, it was clear that a revised, more sophisticated, battery of aptitude tests was essential for the selection of candidates to operate the new, more technologically advanced platforms on the front line. In essence, the updated test battery better reveals an individual’s ability to maintain a high level of auditory and visual perception, together with rapid and accurate mental processing supported by sound short-term and medium-term memory function. Additionally, the candidate must have excellent visual-spatial ability and sound situational awareness in a highly dynamic environment. The updated Pilot battery consists of 7 different competencies that vary from Strategic Task Management to the more ‘traditional’ Psychomotor skills and represents a considerable challenge to the prospective RAF pilot.
The updated test battery is now in place and will take the candidate, on average, about 6 hours to complete (not including rest breaks). As before, the test will be scored out of 180 with the pass mark set at 112; however, OASC may impose a higher Current Competitive Score (CCS) when forecast recruitment numbers are low. Each of the tested competencies is measured on a standard nine point scale (or Stanine) and for each competency an acceptable minimum stanine has been set. Therefore, in addition to achieving the required overall score, candidates must also pass the set stanine score for each competency. OASC will only call candidates forward for the Exercise Phase who have passed the aptitude tests, and achieved a score at or above the CCS.
Aptitude scores are valid for 12 months and there is no limit on the number of times that the tests can be taken. However, as previously stated, 12 months must have elapsed from the previous test date before another attempt can be made. Furthermore, Candidates must still meet all the relevant eligibility criteria; particularly, if successful, they must be able to start Initial Officer Training before their 26th birthday.
Remember that aptitude tests are designed to test an individual’s innate ability; therefore no amount of preparation will change the outcome. However, our general advice is to arrive relaxed, well rested and ensure you have had a good breakfast as the aptitude tests will take some hours to complete.
Please note that, although OASC will endeavour to answer generic questions that arise, we will not be engaging or commenting on individual cases. In those cases, the individual is advised to contact their nearest AFCO who will be able to deal with any queries. All information published is for information only.
Information regarding a career in the RAF can be found at http://www.raf.mod.uk/careers
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Taylor. The only advice I can give you is to look at the great big thread at the top of the page entitled............................OASC 'CANDIDATES and WANNABES,PLEASE READ THIS THREAD FIRST (NEW THREAD). I would post a link to it but I wouldn’t want to do everything for you.
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Taylor-04
Taylor. Good question. My understanding of what is going on at the moment is that the RAF is not recruiting for pilots. However, I believe there are a few residual applicants in the system who if deemed competitive will sit in a hold until required. My advice would be to concentrate on getting your A-Levels and once you have got your results visiting your AFCO to start the application process. You may have a wait before you are called forward but I’m sure the wait will be worth it. In the meantime, I would suggest that you research the branch(es) you are applying for thoroughly, go on station visits, speak to serving personnel, find out about the RAF whilst getting/keeping fit and keeping an eye on what is going on in the world. Good luck. I hope this helps.
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Hi Taylor.
It is my understanding that pilot recruitment is frozen until at least April 2012, so it is not possible to even apply until then unless they change their mind beforehand.
There is a quote from OASC regarding this a few pages back I think.
Sorry to bear bad news!
It is my understanding that pilot recruitment is frozen until at least April 2012, so it is not possible to even apply until then unless they change their mind beforehand.
There is a quote from OASC regarding this a few pages back I think.
Sorry to bear bad news!
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Your comment about recruiting for Pilot (and other branches) may well be true, however, you still need to visit your AFCO and register your interest on the Careers Information Line. This way, once the the branches start to re-open, your details will be in the system and your application will be processed. Don't wait until the rumours of the branches opening appear on here because you may miss your chance!
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Ahh OK I did not know that.
I went to OASC in November last year but since failing that I have given up the dream so am somewhat out of the loop.
Can you imagine how many backlogged applications they will have to process when they open recruiting again?
I pity the wannabes in waiting I tell you.
I went to OASC in November last year but since failing that I have given up the dream so am somewhat out of the loop.
Can you imagine how many backlogged applications they will have to process when they open recruiting again?
I pity the wannabes in waiting I tell you.
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There may be a lot of people in the system once recruiting starts but this shouldn't put people off applying. OASC has got to give the jobs to someone so i guess as long as individuals make themselves as selectable as possible then they stand a chance. You have been through the process before so should know how to best prepare yourself for another attempt; assuming you are still chasing your dream. If you are - don't give up on it! Equally, don't worry about the others that are in the system - they will be driven on by their own motivation!
Krueger flap.
I read this thread now and again - plus others - and sometimes think replies to questions are somewhat kurt to say the least.
Your reply to Taylor04 falls within this and in my opinion was completely uncalled for. Who do you think you are? He was simply asking a question.
Don't bother trying to enter into an online war of words. I can't be ars*d.
TN.
I read this thread now and again - plus others - and sometimes think replies to questions are somewhat kurt to say the least.
Your reply to Taylor04 falls within this and in my opinion was completely uncalled for. Who do you think you are? He was simply asking a question.
Don't bother trying to enter into an online war of words. I can't be ars*d.
TN.
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Torantonight, I couldn't agree more. I am very much a believer that there is no such thing as a stupid question. It is a huge deal for someone to commit to the Armed Forces, therefore I have nothing but respect for those who seek answers to the many questions that they are bound to have in order to prepare themselves. I just hope the wannabes only take heed of those people who offer positive and constructive answers.
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OASC Bulletin 31
During this bulletin, we would like to cover the subject of Corneal Refractive Surgery for Aircrew. The submission is fairly heavy-going but it should serve to give you some guidance. As ever, if you need further information, you should contact your local AFCO. Please note that there seems to be an issue with the formatting of this message therefore some letter a's have been replaced for @ symbols for some reason.
Until quite recently Corneal Refractive Surgery (CRS) was not permitted in either existing aircrew or recruits, however increasing evidence has emerged, much of it from the USA, of the safety of CRS in the military flying environment. There are still hazards and problems associated with CRS which must be considered before embarking on surgery.
CRS may be performed by a number of methods. Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) involves the reshaping of the anterior corneal surface by photoablation using an ultraviolet excimer laser. The corneal epithelium is removed prior to treatment and grows back over the treated zone within 4-6 days. Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis (LASEK) is a modification of PRK where a thin flap of corneal epithelium is created. The underlying corneal stroma is ablated in the same way as PRK but the flap of epithelium is replaced and acts as a bandage lens. The visual outcome is very similar to PRK but pain and haze are reduced. Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) involves the cutting of an actual flap of corneal stromal tissue and ablating the underlying stromal bed, before replacing the flap. Disruption of the epithelial layer is kept to a minimum and this avoids the aggressive healing response that leads to the formation of haze. Pain is also minimised and visual recovery occurs within 1-2 days. For those with low levels of myopia, outcomes in terms of visual performance for all of these techniques are very similar.
It is impossible to guarantee the result of surgery as healing and scar formation vary however the final uncorrected visual acuity after PRK and LASEK is comparable 12 months after treatment; LASEK is associated with less pain and visual recovery is more rapid although LASEK does produce more intra-operative pain. The most common complications following surgery include dry eyes, haze and reduced best corrected visual acuity; more serious complications include infection, inflammation and problems with the corneal flap. Postoperative best uncorrected visual acuity has been reported at 6/12 or better (the minimum standard for pilot selection is 6/12 or better uncorrected in each eye) in 46-100% of eyes depending on the degree of initial short sightedness. It should be noted that postoperative 6/6 vision may be subjectively different from preoperative best corrected 6/6 vision due to a reduction in contrast sensitivity.
Aircrew are normally recruited at an age before ocular maturity when CRS may not provide long-term refractive stability. CRS is not recommended below the age of 21 for this reason; however aircrew recruits may be accepted subject to the following criteria:
(a) CRS by PRK, LASEK and LASIK only.
(b) A minimum of one year to have elapsed since surgery
(c) Minimum age at application of 22.
(d) Subject’s refraction to have been stable for at least 6 months.
(e) Recorded pre-operative refractive error must not exceed –5.00 to +2.00 dioptres in any meridian
(f) Post operative visual acuity within current aircrew visual recruitment limits
If the preceding criteria are met candidates are to be referred to the Consultant Adviser in Ophthalmology (RAF) for assessment by the Officer and Aircrew Selection Centre. OASC will continue to screen RAF candidates via corneal topography to identify those who have had undeclared CRS.
Corneal Refractive Surgery for Ground Branches
The following methods of surgical correction of long or short sightedness are considered suitable for candidates for ground branches on an individual, case by case basis:
(a) Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK)
(b) Laser epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK)
(c) Laser in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK)
(d) Intrastomal corneal rings (ICRs), otherwise known as Intrastomal corneal segments (ICSs).
Entry will not be considered for candidates who have undergone radial keratotomy (RK) or astigmatic keratotomy (AK). Documentary evidence must be produced to confirm that their preoperative refractive error was no more than +6.00 or -6.00 dioptres in either eye and the best spectacle corrected visual acuity no worse than 6/9 in either eye, in addition at least 12 months is to have elapsed since last surgery. There are to have been no significant visual side effects secondary to the surgery affecting daily activities or night vision and refraction is to be stable; as defined by two refractions performed on each eye at least 6 months apart, with no more than 0.50 dioptre difference in the spherical equivalent of either eye. Specialist visual function testing must have been carried out with satisfactory results at least 12 months following surgery, this is to include assessment of refraction, symmetry of visual acuity, high and low contrast sensitivity (with and without glare sources) or contrast acuity analysis, astigmatism, glare, corneal clarity, masked mild hypermetropia and night vision.
Please note that, although OASC will endeavour to answer generic questions that arise, we will not be engaging or commenting on individual cases. In those cases, the individual is advised to contact their nearest AFCO who will be able to deal with any queries. All information published is for information only.
Information regarding a career in the RAF can be found athttp://www.raf.mod.uk/careers
Until quite recently Corneal Refractive Surgery (CRS) was not permitted in either existing aircrew or recruits, however increasing evidence has emerged, much of it from the USA, of the safety of CRS in the military flying environment. There are still hazards and problems associated with CRS which must be considered before embarking on surgery.
CRS may be performed by a number of methods. Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) involves the reshaping of the anterior corneal surface by photoablation using an ultraviolet excimer laser. The corneal epithelium is removed prior to treatment and grows back over the treated zone within 4-6 days. Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis (LASEK) is a modification of PRK where a thin flap of corneal epithelium is created. The underlying corneal stroma is ablated in the same way as PRK but the flap of epithelium is replaced and acts as a bandage lens. The visual outcome is very similar to PRK but pain and haze are reduced. Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) involves the cutting of an actual flap of corneal stromal tissue and ablating the underlying stromal bed, before replacing the flap. Disruption of the epithelial layer is kept to a minimum and this avoids the aggressive healing response that leads to the formation of haze. Pain is also minimised and visual recovery occurs within 1-2 days. For those with low levels of myopia, outcomes in terms of visual performance for all of these techniques are very similar.
It is impossible to guarantee the result of surgery as healing and scar formation vary however the final uncorrected visual acuity after PRK and LASEK is comparable 12 months after treatment; LASEK is associated with less pain and visual recovery is more rapid although LASEK does produce more intra-operative pain. The most common complications following surgery include dry eyes, haze and reduced best corrected visual acuity; more serious complications include infection, inflammation and problems with the corneal flap. Postoperative best uncorrected visual acuity has been reported at 6/12 or better (the minimum standard for pilot selection is 6/12 or better uncorrected in each eye) in 46-100% of eyes depending on the degree of initial short sightedness. It should be noted that postoperative 6/6 vision may be subjectively different from preoperative best corrected 6/6 vision due to a reduction in contrast sensitivity.
Aircrew are normally recruited at an age before ocular maturity when CRS may not provide long-term refractive stability. CRS is not recommended below the age of 21 for this reason; however aircrew recruits may be accepted subject to the following criteria:
(a) CRS by PRK, LASEK and LASIK only.
(b) A minimum of one year to have elapsed since surgery
(c) Minimum age at application of 22.
(d) Subject’s refraction to have been stable for at least 6 months.
(e) Recorded pre-operative refractive error must not exceed –5.00 to +2.00 dioptres in any meridian
(f) Post operative visual acuity within current aircrew visual recruitment limits
If the preceding criteria are met candidates are to be referred to the Consultant Adviser in Ophthalmology (RAF) for assessment by the Officer and Aircrew Selection Centre. OASC will continue to screen RAF candidates via corneal topography to identify those who have had undeclared CRS.
Corneal Refractive Surgery for Ground Branches
The following methods of surgical correction of long or short sightedness are considered suitable for candidates for ground branches on an individual, case by case basis:
(a) Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK)
(b) Laser epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK)
(c) Laser in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK)
(d) Intrastomal corneal rings (ICRs), otherwise known as Intrastomal corneal segments (ICSs).
Entry will not be considered for candidates who have undergone radial keratotomy (RK) or astigmatic keratotomy (AK). Documentary evidence must be produced to confirm that their preoperative refractive error was no more than +6.00 or -6.00 dioptres in either eye and the best spectacle corrected visual acuity no worse than 6/9 in either eye, in addition at least 12 months is to have elapsed since last surgery. There are to have been no significant visual side effects secondary to the surgery affecting daily activities or night vision and refraction is to be stable; as defined by two refractions performed on each eye at least 6 months apart, with no more than 0.50 dioptre difference in the spherical equivalent of either eye. Specialist visual function testing must have been carried out with satisfactory results at least 12 months following surgery, this is to include assessment of refraction, symmetry of visual acuity, high and low contrast sensitivity (with and without glare sources) or contrast acuity analysis, astigmatism, glare, corneal clarity, masked mild hypermetropia and night vision.
Please note that, although OASC will endeavour to answer generic questions that arise, we will not be engaging or commenting on individual cases. In those cases, the individual is advised to contact their nearest AFCO who will be able to deal with any queries. All information published is for information only.
Information regarding a career in the RAF can be found athttp://www.raf.mod.uk/careers
Last edited by OASC; 21st Jun 2011 at 15:02.
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OASC Bulletin 32
The OASC started to provide bulletins on PPRuNe just over a year ago; the aim was to provide prospective candidates, interested in an RAF career, with clear and accurate information about the OASC Selection Process and related issues. However, it was always our intention to withdraw from the forum at some point, and that time has now come.
Nevertheless, all the OASC Bulletins have been reviewed and updated, where appropriate, so that all the information contained therein is accurate today; however, it will not be updated again.
For further information we attach 2 links (below); firstly to the RAF Careers website and secondly to a new RAF College website that will contain information relating to OASC and OACTU.
http://www.raf.mod.uk/careers
http://www.raf.mod.uk/rafcollegecranwell
As ever, if you have any questions regarding the OASC Selection Process or related issues then our advice is for you to contact your local Armed Forces Careers Office so that you get accurate, informed and up to date information.
In closing, we have received many complimentary comments from those who have visited the Selection Centre over the last year regarding the information posted on PPRuNe by the OASC; we hope that our engagement on the forum has been of assistance to those in the process of choosing a career in the RAF.
OASC
Nevertheless, all the OASC Bulletins have been reviewed and updated, where appropriate, so that all the information contained therein is accurate today; however, it will not be updated again.
For further information we attach 2 links (below); firstly to the RAF Careers website and secondly to a new RAF College website that will contain information relating to OASC and OACTU.
http://www.raf.mod.uk/careers
http://www.raf.mod.uk/rafcollegecranwell
As ever, if you have any questions regarding the OASC Selection Process or related issues then our advice is for you to contact your local Armed Forces Careers Office so that you get accurate, informed and up to date information.
In closing, we have received many complimentary comments from those who have visited the Selection Centre over the last year regarding the information posted on PPRuNe by the OASC; we hope that our engagement on the forum has been of assistance to those in the process of choosing a career in the RAF.
OASC
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i havent posted on here for a while, but i thought i would let you guys know that i finally attended phase 2 OASC at cranwell
it didnt end well this morning, and i didnt get to do the medical, interview or fitness and to be honest and i'm pretty devasted.
I enjoyed selection, and feel lucky to have got there, but the feeling of not getting to the interview / med / fit test part is awful, and i'm not going to lie, i've shed many tears today
the main piece of advice i can take away from today and the past couple of days is "dont be a sheep, stand out"
it didnt end well this morning, and i didnt get to do the medical, interview or fitness and to be honest and i'm pretty devasted.
I enjoyed selection, and feel lucky to have got there, but the feeling of not getting to the interview / med / fit test part is awful, and i'm not going to lie, i've shed many tears today
the main piece of advice i can take away from today and the past couple of days is "dont be a sheep, stand out"
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I think you are really brave writing your raw feelings on here. The RAF only want people with that level of passion. Let your emotions now be your inspiration to drive you on and help you develop yourself for your next attempt. I know many individuals who have taken 2 or even 3 attempts to get through the selection process. Their tenacity paid off in the end as I'm sure it will for you - so don't give up!