Notes, Chapter 8

2021 E6 Study Guide

8.1. Enlisted Promotion Systems

The enlisted promotion system supports DoD Directive 1304.20, Enlisted Personnel Management System (EPMS), by providing visible, relatively stable career progression opportunities; attracting, retaining, and motivating the kinds and numbers of people the military needs; and ensuring a reasonably uniform application of the principle of equal pay for equal work among the services. While many significant changes have taken place with the enlisted promotion systems in recent years, there are some standardized, consistent aspects that Airmen recognize and rely on for fair and accurate consideration for promotion. AFI 36-2502, Enlisted Airman Promotion/Demotion Programs, provides detailed information regarding enlisted promotion systems. Note: This chapter applies to Regular Air Force enlisted promotions.

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8.1. Enlisted Promotion Systems

The enlisted promotion system supports DoD Directive 1304.20, Enlisted Personnel Management System (EPMS), 28 July 2005, by providing visible, relatively stable career progression opportunities; attracting, retaining, and motivating the kinds and numbers of people the military needs; and ensuring a reasonably uniform application of the principle of equal pay for equal work among the services. While many significant changes have taken place with the enlisted promotion systems in recent years, there are some standardized, consistent aspects that Airmen recognize and rely on for fair and accurate consideration for promotion. AFI 36-2502, Enlisted Airman Promotion and Demotion Programs, 16 April 2021, provides detailed information regarding enlisted promotion systems. Note: This chapter applies to RegAF enlisted promotions.

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8.2. Promotion Quotas

The Department of Defense limits the number of Airmen the Regular Air Force may have in the top five enlisted grades. Promotion quotas for Staff Sergeant through Chief Master Sergeant are tied to fiscal year-end strength and are affected by funding limits, regulatory limits, and the number of projected vacancies in specific grades. Public law, as outlined in Title 10 United States Code, Armed Forces, limits the number of Airmen who may serve in the Regular Air Force in the top two enlisted grades. The authorized average of enlisted members on Regular Air Force status (other than for training) in pay grades E-8 and E-9 in a fiscal year may not be more than 2.5 percent and 1.25 percent, respectively.

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8.2. Promotion Quotas

The Department of Defense limits the number of Airmen the RegAF may have in the top five enlisted grades. Promotion quotas for Staff Sergeant through Chief Master Sergeant are tied to fiscal year-end strength and are affected by funding limits, regulatory limits, and the number of projected vacancies in specific grades. Public law, as outlined in Title 10, U.S.C., Armed Forces, Chapter 36, Promotion, Separation, and Involuntary Retirement of Officers on the Active Duty List, limits the number of Airmen who may serve in the RegAF in the top two enlisted grades. The authorized average of enlisted members on RegAF status (other than for training) in pay grades E-8 and E-9 in a fiscal year may not be more than 2.5 percent and 1.25 percent, respectively.

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8.3. Enlisted Promotion Opportunities

While the Air Force promotion system is designed to promote eligible Airmen recommended by their commander on a noncompetitive basis, there are additional opportunities and factors for Airmen to consider regarding promotions.

Airman Below-the-Zone Promotion Program. Under the Airman Below-the-Zone Program, Airmen in the grade of Airman First Class may compete for early advancement to Senior Airman if they meet the minimum eligibility criteria. If promoted to Senior Airman below-the-zone, the promotion effective date is six months before their fully qualified date. Airmen are considered for below-the-zone promotion in the month (December, March, June, or September) before the quarter (January - March, April - June, July - September, or October - December) that they are eligible.

Stripes for Exceptional Performers Program. The Stripes for Exceptional Performers (STEP) Program is designed to meet those unique circumstances that, in a commander's judgment, clearly warrant promotion. The STEP Program is intended to promote Airmen for compelling, although perhaps not quantifiable, reasons. Isolated acts or specific achievements should not be the sole basis for promotion under this program.

Under the STEP Program, commanders at various organizational levels may promote a limited number of exemplary performing Airmen with exceptional potential to the grades of Staff Sergeant through Technical Sergeant. An individual may not receive more than one promotion under any combination of promotion programs within a 12-month period. One exception is that Senior Airmen must serve six months of time in grade before being promoted to Staff Sergeant. Commanders must ensure personnel who are promoted meet eligibility requirements.

Weighted Airman Promotion System. NCOs and SNCOs compete for promotion and test under the Weighted Airman Promotion System (WAPS) in the control Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) held on the promotion eligibility cutoff date. Contributing factors are "weighted" or assigned points based on the importance relative to promotion. The PFE contains a wide range of Air Force knowledge, while the SKT covers AFSC broad technical knowledge. The Air Force makes promotion selections under the WAPS within, not across, each AFSC. This means those who are eligible will compete for promotion with those individuals currently working in their AFSC. Selectees are individuals with the highest scores in each AFSC, within the quota limitations. If more than one individual has the same total score at the cutoff point, the Air Force promotes everyone with that score.

Senior Noncommissioned Officer Promotions. Consideration for promotion to the grades of Master Sergeant, Senior Master Sergeant, and Chief Master Sergeant is a two-phased process. Phase I consists of the WAPS. Phase II consists of the central evaluation board held at Air Force Personnel Center. Promotion selection is determined by a combination of total points from Phase I and phase II in each AFSC within the quota limitations. If more than one individual has the same total score at the cutoff point, the Air Force promotes everyone with that score.

In-System Supplemental Promotion Process. The in-system supplemental action is typically processed on a monthly basis. Eligible Staff Sergeants through Senior Master Sergeants whose weighable data changes in their promotion file compete monthly for promotion consideration. In-system supplemental consideration also applies to Airmen who test after initial selects have been made, such as deployed Airmen, or anyone who was unable to test during their normal testing window.

Senior Noncommissioned Officer Supplemental Promotion Process. The SNCO supplemental board is for those members promotion-eligible to Master Sergeant, Senior Master Sergeant, or Chief Master Sergeant. Supplemental evaluation boards are conducted on a semiannual basis. SNCOs may request to meet the supplemental board if they believe they have a valid request. With the exception of a missing static closeout date evaluation, there are no automatic approvals for supplemental board consideration when a record did not meet a previous board for which they were eligible. Supplemental promotion consideration may not be granted if an error or omission appeared on the data verification record or in the SNCO selection record located in the personnel records display application, and the individual did not take the necessary steps to correct the error prior to promotion selection or prior to the evaluation board. Fully documented supplemental consideration requests, to include proof of corrective or follow-up actions taken by the individual to correct the error, are submitted to the military personnel section in writing with the recommendation of the individual's unit commander. The military personnel section forwards the request to Air Force Personnel Center for final approval.

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8.3. Enlisted Promotion Opportunities

While the USAF promotion system is designed to promote eligible Airmen recommended by their commander on a noncompetitive basis, there are additional opportunities and factors for Airmen to consider regarding promotions.

Airman Below-the-Zone Promotion Program. Under the Airman Below-the-Zone Program, Airmen in the grade of Airman First Class may compete for early advancement to Senior Airman if they meet the minimum eligibility criteria. If promoted to Senior Airman below-the-zone, the promotion effective date is six months before their fully qualified date. Airmen are considered for below-the-zone promotion in the month (December, March, June, or September) before the quarter (January - March, April - June, July - September, or October - December) that they are eligible.

Stripes for Exceptional Performers Program. The Stripes for Exceptional Performers (STEP) Program is designed to meet those unique circumstances that, in a commander's judgment, clearly warrant promotion. The STEP Program is intended to promote Airmen for compelling, although perhaps not quantifiable, reasons. Isolated acts or specific achievements should not be the sole basis for promotion under this program.

Under the STEP Program, commanders at various organizational levels may promote a limited number of exemplary performing Airmen with exceptional potential to the grades of Staff Sergeant through Technical Sergeant. An individual may not receive more than one promotion under any combination of promotion programs within a 12-month period. One exception is that Senior Airmen must serve six months of time in grade before being promoted to Staff Sergeant. Commanders must ensure personnel who are promoted meet eligibility requirements.

Weighted Airman Promotion System. NCOs and SNCOs compete for promotion and test under the Weighted Airman Promotion System (WAPS) in the control Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) held on the promotion eligibility cutoff date. Contributing factors are "weighted" or assigned points based on the importance relative to promotion. The Promotion Fitness Exam (PFE) contains a wide range of USAF knowledge, while the Specialty Knowledge Test (SKT) covers AFSC broad technical knowledge. The USAF makes promotion selections under the WAPS within each AFSC, not across all AFSCs. This means those who are eligible will compete for promotion with those individuals currently working in their AFSC. Selectees are individuals with the highest scores in each AFSC, within the quota limitations. If more than one individual has the same total score at the cutoff point, the USAF promotes everyone with that score.

Senior Noncommissioned Officer Promotions. Consideration for promotion to the grades of Master Sergeant, Senior Master Sergeant, and Chief Master Sergeant is a two-phased process. Phase I consists of the WAPS. Phase II consists of the central evaluation board held at Air Force Personnel Center. Promotion selection is determined by a combination of total points from Phase I and Phase II in each AFSC within the quota limitations. If more than one individual has the same total score at the cutoff point, the USAF promotes everyone with that score.

In-System Supplemental Promotion Process. The in-system supplemental action is typically processed on a monthly basis. Eligible Staff Sergeants through Senior Master Sergeants whose weighable data changes in their promotion file compete monthly for promotion consideration. In-system supplemental consideration also applies to Airmen who test after initial selects have been made, such as deployed Airmen, or anyone who was unable to test during their normal testing window.

Senior Noncommissioned Officer Supplemental Promotion Process. The SNCO supplemental board is for those members promotion-eligible to Master Sergeant, Senior Master Sergeant, or Chief Master Sergeant. Supplemental evaluation boards are conducted on a semiannual basis. SNCOs may request to meet the supplemental board if they believe they have a valid request. With the exception of a missing static closeout date evaluation, there are no automatic approvals for supplemental board consideration when a record did not meet a previous board for which they were eligible. Supplemental promotion consideration may not be granted if an error or omission appeared on the data verification record or in the SNCO selection record located in the personnel records display application, and the individual did not take the necessary steps to correct the error prior to promotion selection or prior to the evaluation board. Fully documented supplemental consideration requests, to include proof of corrective or follow-up actions taken by the individual to correct the error, are submitted to the military personnel section in writing with the recommendation of the individual's unit commander. The military personnel section forwards the request to Air Force Personnel Center for final approval.

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8.4. Promotion Cycles and Eligibility

The Air Force establishes promotion cycles to ensure timely periodic promotions and to permit accurate forecasting of vacancies. Promotion cycles also balance the promotion administrative workload and provide promotion eligibility cutoff dates (PECD). Factors for promotion eligibility may include: proper skill level, sufficient time in grade, sufficient time in service, commander recommendation, completion of enlisted professional military education (PME), completion of a college degree, cumulative years of enlisted service, and high year of tenure.

Note: Air Force Reserve promotions are based on a combination of position vacancy, time-in-grade, time-in-service, fitness, and completion of appropriate professional military education.

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8.4. Promotion Cycles and Eligibility

The USAF establishes promotion cycles to ensure timely periodic promotions and to permit accurate forecasting of vacancies. Promotion cycles also balance the promotion administrative workload and provide promotion eligibility cutoff dates (PECD). Factors for promotion eligibility may include: proper skill level, sufficient time in grade, sufficient time in service, commander recommendation, completion of enlisted professional military education (PME), completion of a college degree, cumulative years of enlisted service, and high year of tenure. Note: Air Reserve Components promotions are based on a combination of position vacancy, time-in-grade, time-in-service, fitness, and completion of appropriate professional military education.

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8.5. Basic Promotion Guidelines

The basic promotion guidelines for enlisted members are provided here.

Promotion to Airman. Airman Basic may be promotion eligible to Airman at six months of time in grade.

Promotion to Airman First Class. Airman may be promotion eligible to Airman First Class at 10 months of time in grade. Airmen initially enlisting for a period of six years are promoted from Airman Basic to Airman First Class upon completion of either technical training or 20 weeks of technical training after graduation from basic military training (whichever occurs first). The date of rank for Airman First Class is then adjusted to the signatory date on the basic military training certificate, without back pay and allowances.

Promotion to Senior Airman. Airmen may be promotion eligible to Senior Airman upon completion of 36 months of time in service and 20 months of time in grade or 28 months of time in grade (whichever occurs first). Required skill level in primary Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) is 3-level. Senior Airman below-the-zone is a one-time promotion consideration to advance to Senior Airman six months earlier than basic promotion timelines to Senior Airman.

Promotion to Staff Sergeant. Senior Airmen may be promotion eligible to Staff Sergeant upon completion of three years of time in service and six months of time in grade. The PECD for promotion to Staff Sergeant is 31 March. The test cycle is May - June. Required skill level in primary AFSC is 5-level.

Promotion to Technical Sergeant. Staff Sergeants may be promotion eligible to Technical Sergeant upon completion of five years of time in service and 23 months of time in grade. The PECD for promotion to Technical Sergeant is 31 January. The test cycle is February - March. Required skill level in primary AFSC is 7-level.

Promotion to Master Sergeant. Technical Sergeants may be promotion eligible to Master Sergeant upon completion of eight years of time in service and 24 months of time in grade. The PECD for promotion to Master Sergeant is 30 November. The test cycle is February - March. Required skill level in primary AFSC is 7-level.

Promotion to Senior Master Sergeant. Master Sergeants may be promotion eligible to Senior Master Sergeant upon completion of 11 years of time in service and 20 months of time in grade. The PECD for promotion to Senior Master Sergeant is 30 September. The test cycle is December. Required skill level in primary AFSC is 7-level.

Promotion to Chief Master Sergeant. Senior Master Sergeants may be promotion eligible to Chief Master Sergeant upon completion of 14 years of time in service and 21 months of time in grade. The PECD for promotion to Chief Master Sergeant is 31 July. The test cycle is September. Required skill level in primary AFSC is 9-level.

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8.5. Basic Promotion Guidelines

The basic promotion guidelines for enlisted members are provided here.

Promotion to Airman. Airman Basic may be promotion eligible to Airman at six months of time in grade.

Promotion to Airman First Class. Airman may be promotion eligible to Airman First Class at 10 months of time in grade. Airmen initially enlisting for a period of six years are promoted from Airman Basic to Airman First Class upon completion of either technical training or 20 weeks of technical training after graduation from basic military training (whichever occurs first). The date of rank for Airman First Class is then adjusted to the signatory date on the basic military training certificate, without back pay and allowances.

Promotion to Senior Airman. Airmen may be promotion eligible to Senior Airman upon completion of 36 months of time in service and 20 months of time in grade or 28 months of time in grade (whichever occurs first). Required skill level in primary Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) is 3-level. Senior Airman below-the-zone is a one-time promotion consideration to advance to Senior Airman six months earlier than basic promotion timelines to Senior Airman.

Promotion to Staff Sergeant. Senior Airmen may be promotion eligible to Staff Sergeant upon completion of three years of time in service and six months of time in grade. The PECD for promotion to Staff Sergeant is 31 March. The test cycle is May - June. Required skill level in primary AFSC is 5-level.

Promotion to Technical Sergeant. Staff Sergeants may be promotion eligible to Technical Sergeant upon completion of five years of time in service and 23 months of time in grade. The PECD for promotion to Technical Sergeant is 31 January. The test cycle is February - March. Required skill level in primary AFSC is 7-level.

Promotion to Master Sergeant. Technical Sergeants may be promotion eligible to Master Sergeant upon completion of eight years of time in service and 24 months of time in grade. The PECD for promotion to Master Sergeant is 30 November. The test cycle is February - March. Required skill level in primary AFSC is 7-level.

Promotion to Senior Master Sergeant. Master Sergeants may be promotion eligible to Senior Master Sergeant upon completion of 11 years of time in service and 20 months of time in grade. The PECD for promotion to Senior Master Sergeant is 30 September. The test cycle is December. Required skill level in primary AFSC is 7-level.

Promotion to Chief Master Sergeant. Senior Master Sergeants may be promotion eligible to Chief Master Sergeant upon completion of 14 years of time in service and 21 months of time in grade. The PECD for promotion to Chief Master Sergeant is 31 July. The test cycle is September. Required skill level in primary AFSC is 9-level.

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8.6. Accepting Promotion

Selects to the grade of Master Sergeant and Senior Master Sergeant with more than 18 years Total Active Federal Military Service (TAFMS) by effective date of promotion will sign an AF Form 63, Active Duty Service Commitment (ADSC) Acknowledgement Statement, or a Statement of Understanding within 10 duty days after selections are confirmed. In addition, all Chief Master Sergeant-selects, regardless of TAFMS, will sign an AF Form 63 or a Statement of Understanding within 10 duty days after selections are confirmed. The form will acknowledge that Master Sergeant-selects and Senior Master Sergeant-selects must obtain two years of service retainability and incur a two-year active duty service commitment (ADSC) from the effective date of promotion to qualify for non-disability retirement. Chief Master Sergeant-selects must acknowledge and obtain three years of service retainability and incur a three-year ADSC from the effective date of promotion to qualify for non-disability retirement. Failure to withdraw an existing retirement application (approved or pending) within 10 duty days from presentation of the AF Form 63 or the Statement of Understanding will result in removal from the selection list.

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8.6. Accepting Promotion

Selects to the grade of Master Sergeant and Senior Master Sergeant with more than 18 years Total Active Federal Military Service (TAFMS) by effective date of promotion will sign an AF Form 63, Active Duty Service Commitment (ADSC) Acknowledgement Statement, or a Statement of Understanding within 10 duty days after selections are confirmed. In addition, all Chief Master Sergeant-selects, regardless of TAFMS, will sign an AF Form 63 or a Statement of Understanding within 10 duty days after selections are confirmed. The form will acknowledge that Master Sergeant-selects and Senior Master Sergeant-selects must obtain two years of service retainability and incur a two-year active duty service commitment (ADSC) from the effective date of promotion to qualify for non-disability retirement. Chief Master Sergeant-selects must acknowledge and obtain three years of service retainability and incur a three-year ADSC from the effective date of promotion to qualify for non-disability retirement. Failure to withdraw an existing retirement application (approved or pending) within 10 duty days from presentation of the AF Form 63 or the Statement of Understanding will result in removal from the selection list.

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8.7. Promotion Sequence Numbers

The Air Force Personnel Center assigns promotion sequence numbers to Airmen selected for promotion to Staff Sergeant through Chief Master Sergeant based on date of rank, TAFMS, and date of birth. Supplemental selectees are assigned promotion sequence numbers of .9 (increment previously announced) or .5 (unannounced future increment).

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8.7. Promotion Sequence Numbers

The Air Force Personnel Center assigns promotion sequence numbers to Airmen selected for promotion to Staff Sergeant through Chief Master Sergeant based on date of rank, TAFMS, and date of birth. Supplemental selectees are assigned promotion sequence numbers of .9 (increment previously announced) or .5 (unannounced future increment).

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8.8. Declining Promotion

Airmen may decline a promotion in writing by submitting a letter to the military personnel flight (MPF). MPF will ensure Military Personnel Data System (MilPDS) is updated and ensure the declination is entered in the member's electronic records. This may be accomplished any time prior to the promotion effective date.

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8.8. Declining Promotion

Airmen may decline a promotion in writing by submitting a letter to the military personnel flight (MPF). MPF will ensure Military Personnel Data System (MilPDS) is updated and ensure the declination is entered in the member's electronic records. This may be accomplished any time prior to the promotion effective date.

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8.9. Promotion Ineligibility

There are many reasons why an Airman may be considered ineligible for promotion, such as approved retirement, declination for extension or reenlistment, court-martial conviction, control roster action, no commander recommendation, failure to appear for scheduled testing without a valid reason, and absent without leave. When individuals are ineligible for promotion, they cannot test, cannot be considered if already tested, and the projected promotion, if already selected, will be canceled.

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8.9. Promotion Ineligibility

There are many reasons why an Airman may be considered ineligible for promotion, such as approved retirement, declination for extension or reenlistment, court-martial conviction, control roster action, no commander recommendation, failure to appear for scheduled testing without a valid reason, and absent without leave. When individuals are ineligible for promotion, they cannot test, cannot be considered if already tested, and the projected promotion, if already selected, will be canceled.

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8.10. Individual Responsibilities

Preparing for promotion testing is an individual responsibility. All promotion eligible individuals must know their eligibility status, maintain specialty and military qualifications, initiate a self-study plan, obtain all applicable study references as outlined in the Enlisted Promotions References and Requirements Catalog (EPRRC), ensure their selection folder is accurate if it will be reviewed by the central evaluation board, and be prepared to test on the beginning of the testing window. The importance of individual responsibility cannot be overemphasized. Members who will be unavailable during the entire testing cycle must be prepared to test prior to their departure, even if that is before the first day of the testing cycle. Airmen may opt to test early provided the correct test booklets are available.

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8.10. Individual Responsibilities

Preparing for promotion testing is an individual responsibility. All promotion eligible individuals must know their eligibility status, maintain specialty and military qualifications, initiate a self-study plan, obtain all applicable study references as outlined in the Enlisted Promotions References and Requirements Catalog (EPRRC), ensure their selection folder is accurate if it will be reviewed by the central evaluation board, and be prepared to test on the beginning of the testing window. The importance of individual responsibility cannot be overemphasized. Members who will be unavailable during the entire testing cycle must be prepared to test prior to their departure, even if that is before the first day of the testing cycle. Airmen may opt to test early provided the correct test booklets are available.

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8.11. Enlisted Promotion Test Compromise

Airmen must use a self-initiated program of individual study and effort under the Weighted Airman Promotion System (WAPS). Group study (two or more people) for the purposes of enlisted promotion testing is strictly prohibited. This prohibition protects the integrity of the promotion testing program by ensuring promotion test scores are a reflection of each member's individual knowledge. Enlisted personnel who violate these prohibitions are subject to prosecution under Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice for violating a lawful general regulation. Conviction can result in a dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, and confinement for up to two years. Information concerning enlisted promotion test compromise is contained in AFI 36-2605, Air Force Military Personnel Testing System.

Note: Training designed to improve general military knowledge does not constitute group study as long as the intent of the training is not to study for promotion tests. Likewise, training to improve general study habits or test-taking skills is permissible if the training does not focus on preparing for promotion tests.

Restrictions on Group Study. Restrictions on group study and additional specific test compromise situations regarding promotion tests are briefly covered here.

- Discussing promotion test content with anyone other than the test control officer or test examiner is prohibited. Written inquiries or complaints about a test are handled by the test control officer.

- Sharing pretests or lists of test questions recalled from a current or previous promotion test; personal study materials; underlined or highlighted study reference material; and commercial study guides with other individuals is prohibited.

- Placing commercial study guide software on government computers is prohibited. While Airmen may use commercial study materials in preparation for promotion testing, the Air Force does not recommend, endorse, or support commercial study guides.

- Creating, storing, or transferring personal study notes on government computers is prohibited. Government computers may only be used to view electronic versions of official study references.

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8.11. Enlisted Promotion Test Compromise

Airmen must use a self-initiated program of individual study and effort under the Weighted Airman Promotion System (WAPS). Group study (two or more people) for the purposes of enlisted promotion testing is strictly prohibited. This prohibition protects the integrity of the promotion testing program by ensuring promotion test scores are a reflection of each member's individual knowledge. Enlisted personnel who violate these prohibitions are subject to prosecution under Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice for violating a lawful general regulation. Conviction can result in a dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, and confinement for up to two years. Information concerning enlisted promotion test compromise is contained in AFMAN 36-2664.

Note: Training designed to improve general military knowledge does not constitute group study as long as the intent of the training is not to study for promotion tests. Likewise, training to improve general study habits or test-taking skills is permissible if the training does not focus on preparing for promotion tests.

Restrictions on Group Study. Restrictions on group study and additional specific test compromise situations regarding promotion tests are briefly covered here.

- Discussing promotion test content with anyone other than the test control officer or test examiner is prohibited. Written inquiries or complaints about a test are handled by the test control officer.

- Sharing pretests or lists of test questions recalled from a current or previous promotion test; personal study materials; underlined or highlighted study reference material; and commercial study guides with other individuals is prohibited.

- Placing commercial study guide software on government computers is prohibited. While Airmen may use commercial study materials in preparation for promotion testing, the USAF does not recommend, endorse, or support commercial study guides.

- Creating, storing, or transferring personal study notes on government computers is prohibited. Government computers may only be used to view electronic versions of official study references.

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8.12. Distribution of Enlisted Promotion Test Study References

The Barnes Center for Enlisted Education, Air Force Career Development Academy is responsible for providing promotion eligible members access to WAPS Career Development Courses. They are available on-line at: http://cdc.aetc.af.mil/. The site is updated to coincide with release of the EPRRC. Study materials, such as instructions, manuals, or technical orders, are made available online at: http://www.e-publishing.af.mil or other approved repositories. Individuals may ask unit WAPS monitors to order study reference material listed in the catalog that is not locally available. According to AFI 36-2605, promotion eligible Airmen must have access to reference materials at least 60 days before the scheduled test date. If not, the Airman may request a delay in testing.

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8.12. Distribution of Enlisted Promotion Test Study References

The Barnes Center for Enlisted Education, Air Force Career Development Academy is responsible for providing promotion eligible members access to WAPS Career Development Courses. They are available on-line at: https://www.omsq.af.mil/index.htm. The site is updated to coincide with release of the EPRRC. Study materials, such as instructions, manuals, or technical orders, are made available online at: http://www.e-publishing.af.mil or other approved repositories. Individuals may ask unit WAPS monitors to order study reference material listed in the catalog that is not locally available. According to AFMAN 36-2664, promotion eligible Airmen must have access to reference materials at least 60 days before the scheduled test date. If not, the Airman may request a delay in testing.

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8.13. Promotion Eligibility Cutoff Date

The promotion eligibility cutoff date (PECD) is used to determine Airman promotion eligibility as well as the cutoff date that will determine when contents of the selection folder and information on promotion evaluation briefs must be updated and complete. The PECD is the date that promotion criteria is considered for promotion, such as the data provided on the Data Verification Brief, that is used for promotion board evaluation consideration. For SNCOs, this information is then used to post the SNCO evaluation brief filed in the SNCO selection folder.

Promotion Criteria. As the Air Force continues to offer opportunities for career broadening and special duty assignments, it is important to mention that individuals with a reporting identifier or special duty identifier, designated as their control Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) on the PECD, will compete within that reporting identifier or special duty identifier. Otherwise, Master Sergeants being considered for promotion to Senior Master Sergeant will compete for promotion in the superintendent level of the control AFSC they held as of the PECD. Likewise, Senior Master Sergeants being considered for promotion to Chief Master Sergeant will compete for promotion in the chief enlisted manager code of the control AFSC they held as of the PECD.

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8.13. Promotion Eligibility Cutoff Date

The promotion eligibility cutoff date (PECD) is used to determine Airman promotion eligibility as well as the cutoff date that will determine when contents of the selection folder and information on promotion evaluation briefs must be updated and complete. The PECD is the date that promotion criteria are considered for promotion, such as the data provided on the Data Verification Brief, that is used for promotion board evaluation consideration. For SNCOs, this information is then used to post the SNCO evaluation brief filed in the SNCO selection folder.

Promotion Criteria. As the USAF continues to offer opportunities for career broadening and special duty assignments, it is important to mention that individuals with a reporting identifier or special duty identifier, designated as their control Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) on the PECD, will compete within that reporting identifier or special duty identifier. Otherwise, Master Sergeants being considered for promotion to Senior Master Sergeant will compete for promotion in the superintendent level of the control AFSC they held as of the PECD. Likewise, Senior Master Sergeants being considered for promotion to Chief Master Sergeant will compete for promotion in the chief enlisted manager code of the control AFSC they held as of the PECD.

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8.14. Data Verification Record

The Data Verification Record (DVR) is the document utilized for promotion consideration and is the most important tool to review to ensure information on a promotion record is complete. All eligible Airmen must review their DVR in the Automated Records Management System/Personnel Records Display Application (ARMS/PRDA). If an error or omission is noted, the Airman must immediately contact his or her military personnel flight for assistance. The military personnel flight will update the Military Personnel Data System with the correct data and update the DVR on virtual military personnel flight. Airmen should review the updated record to verify changes have been completed accurately. Data reflected on the DVR should not be confused with the Data Verification Brief or a Single Unit Retrieval Format, commonly referred to as SURF.

Data Verification Record Review Steps:

-Access the Air Force Portal.

-Access PRDA.

-Under My Sections, select PRDA.

-The Selection Folder category within PRDA is the "As Is" record.

-The Board category within PRDA is the "As Met" record.

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8.14. Data Verification Record

The Data Verification Record (DVR) is the document utilized for promotion consideration and is the most important tool to review to ensure information on a promotion record is complete. All eligible Airmen must review their DVR in the Automated Records Management System/Personnel Records Display Application (ARMS/PRDA). If an error or omission is noted, the Airman must immediately contact his or her military personnel flight for assistance. The military personnel flight will update the Military Personnel Data System with the correct data and update the DVR on virtual military personnel flight. Airmen should review the updated record to verify changes have been completed accurately. Data reflected on the DVR should not be confused with the Data Verification Brief or a Single Unit Retrieval Format, commonly referred to as SURF.

Data Verification Record Review Steps:

-Access the USAF Portal.

-Access PRDA.

-Under My Sections, select PRDA.

-The Selection Folder category within PRDA is the "As Is" record.

-The Board category within PRDA is the "As Met" record.

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8.15. Promotion Test Development

The Air Education and Training, Studies and Analysis Squadron, Airman Advancement Section, Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, produces all Air Force enlisted promotion tests, which are written by Airmen for Airmen. Teams of SNCOs travel to work in-house with test development specialists and apply their knowledge and expertise to develop current, relevant, and accurate test questions for enlisted promotion testing. At the beginning of a test development project, the most current tests are administered to the test development teams. This gives test writers the point of view of the test takers and helps them evaluate how the test content relates to performance in their specialties. Teams will also carefully check the references of each question for currency and accuracy. Only after this is accomplished do the teams begin developing new test questions. During test development, test development specialists provide psychometric and developmental expertise required to ensure the tests are credible, valid, and fair to all examinees.

Promotion Fitness Examination. The Promotion Fitness Examinations (PFE) measure military and supervisory knowledge required of Staff Sergeants, Technical Sergeants, and Master Sergeants. For the PFE, test development specialists select Chief Master Sergeants based on Air Force demographics, extensive experience, and diverse major command representation to develop and validate questions.

Specialty Knowledge Tests. Specialty Knowledge Tests (SKT) measure important job knowledge required in a particular specialty. For SKTs, test development specialists work closely with Air Force career field managers to stay abreast of changes affecting career fields which may impact promotion test development. SNCOs, based on their specialties and job experiences, are selected to develop and validate SKT questions. Resources used to develop SKEs include Career Field Education and Training Plans, occupational analysis data, and experiences to ensure test content is related to important tasks performed in the specialty.

2022 E6 Study Guide

8.15. Promotion Test Development

The Air Education and Training, Studies and Analysis Squadron, Airman Advancement Section, Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, produces all USAF enlisted promotion tests, which are written by Airmen for Airmen. Teams of SNCOs travel to work in-house with test development specialists and apply their knowledge and expertise to develop current, relevant, and accurate test questions for enlisted promotion testing. At the beginning of a test development project, the most current tests are administered to the test development teams. This gives test writers the point of view of the test takers and helps them evaluate how the test content relates to performance in their specialties. Teams will also carefully check the references of each question for currency and accuracy. Only after this is accomplished do the teams begin developing new test questions. During test development, test development specialists provide psychometric and developmental expertise required to ensure the tests are credible, valid, and fair to all examinees.

Promotion Fitness Examination. The Promotion Fitness Examinations (PFE) measure military and supervisory knowledge required of Staff Sergeants and Technical Sergeants. For the PFE, test development specialists select Chief Master Sergeants based on USAF demographics, extensive experience, and diverse major command representation to develop and validate questions.

Specialty Knowledge Tests. Specialty Knowledge Tests (SKT) measure important job knowledge required in a particular specialty. For SKTs, test development specialists work closely with USAF career field managers to stay abreast of changes affecting career fields which may impact promotion test development. SNCOs, based on their specialties and job experiences, are selected to develop and validate SKT questions. Resources used to develop SKEs include Career Field Education and Training Plans, occupational analysis data, and experiences to ensure test content is related to important tasks performed in the specialty.

2021 E6 Study Guide

8.16. Enlisted Promotions References and Requirements Catalog

Published annually on 1 October, the Enlisted Promotions References and Requirements Catalog (EPRRC), lists all enlisted promotion tests authorized for administration and the study references associated with these tests. Every question on a promotion test comes from one of the publications listed in the EPRRC, and only publications used to support questions on a given promotion test are listed. The study references for the PFE are the grade-specific Enlisted Promotion Study Guides derived from AFH 1, Airman. The study references for SKTs are often a combination of Career Development Courses and technical references. Career Development Courses used as study references may be different from those issued for upgrade training. The catalog also contains administrative and special instructions for test control officers. The EPRRC is available at: https://www.omsq.af.mil/.

2022 E6 Study Guide

8.16. Enlisted Promotions References and Requirements Catalog

Published annually on 1 October, the Enlisted Promotions References and Requirements Catalog (EPRRC), lists all enlisted promotion tests authorized for administration and the study references associated with these tests. Every question on a promotion test comes from one of the publications listed in the EPRRC, and only publications used to support questions on a given promotion test are listed. The study references for the PFE are the grade-specific Enlisted Promotion Study Guides derived from AFH 1. The study references for SKTs are often a combination of Career Development Courses and technical references. Career Development Courses used as study references may be different from those issued for upgrade training. The catalog also contains administrative and special instructions for test control officers. The EPRRC is available at: https://www.omsq.af.mil/.

2021 E6 Study Guide

8.17. Promotion Test Administration and Scoring

Promotion tests are administered to all Airmen competing for promotion to the grades of Staff Sergeant through Chief Master Sergeant. Test administration procedures are standardized to ensure fairness for all members competing for promotion. Strict procedures are used for handling, storing, and transmitting test booklets and answer sheets at all times. All promotion tests are electronically scored at Air Force Personnel Center following thorough quality control steps to ensure accurate test results are recorded for each member. The test scanning and scoring process contains many safeguards to verify accuracy.

Test Scores. A minimum score of 40 points is required on a PFE. A minimum score of 40 points is required on a SKT. A combined score of 90 points is required. Airmen who score the minimum 40 points on either exam (when taking both examinations) must score a minimum 50 on the other one to meet the minimum combined score of 90. For those testing PFE only, a minimum score of 45 is required (combined score of 90 when doubled).

2022 E6 Study Guide

8.17. Promotion Test Administration and Scoring

Promotion tests are administered to all Airmen competing for promotion to the grades of Staff Sergeant through Technical Sergeant. Test administration procedures are standardized to ensure fairness for all members competing for promotion. Strict procedures are used for handling, storing, and transmitting test booklets and answer sheets at all times. All promotion tests are electronically scored at Air Force Personnel Center following thorough quality control steps to ensure accurate test results are recorded for each member. The test scanning and scoring process contains many safeguards to verify accuracy.

Test Scores. A minimum score of 40 points is required on a PFE. A minimum score of 40 points is required on a SKT. A combined score of 90 points is required. Airmen who score the minimum 40 points on either exam (when taking both examinations) must score a minimum 50 on the other one to meet the minimum combined score of 90. For those testing PFE only, a minimum score of 45 is required (combined score of 90 when doubled).

2021 E6 Study Guide

8.18. Promotion Points

Calculating points for promotion can be a somewhat complex, but not complicated process. The complete charts, to include exceptions and notes for calculating points and factors for promotion, are included in AFI 36-2502, Enlisted Airman Promotion/Demotion Programs.

2022 E6 Study Guide

8.18. Promotion Points

Calculating points for promotion can be a somewhat complex, but not complicated process. The complete charts, to include exceptions and notes for calculating points and factors for promotion, are included in AFI 36-2502.

2021 E5 Study Guide

8.1. Enlisted Promotion Systems

The enlisted promotion system supports DoD Directive 1304.20, Enlisted Personnel Management System (EPMS), 28 July 2005, by providing visible, relatively stable career progression opportunities; attracting, retaining, and motivating the kinds and numbers of people the military needs; and ensuring a reasonably uniform application of the principle of equal pay for equal work among the services. While many significant changes have taken place with the enlisted promotion systems in recent years, there are some standardized, consistent aspects that Airmen recognize and rely on for fair and accurate consideration for promotion. AFI 36-2502, Enlisted Airman Promotion and Demotion Programs, 16 April 2021, provides detailed information regarding enlisted promotion systems. Note: This chapter applies to RegAF enlisted promotions.

2021 E6 Study Guide

8.1. Enlisted Promotion Systems

The enlisted promotion system supports DoD Directive 1304.20, Enlisted Personnel Management System (EPMS), by providing visible, relatively stable career progression opportunities; attracting, retaining, and motivating the kinds and numbers of people the military needs; and ensuring a reasonably uniform application of the principle of equal pay for equal work among the services. While many significant changes have taken place with the enlisted promotion systems in recent years, there are some standardized, consistent aspects that Airmen recognize and rely on for fair and accurate consideration for promotion. AFI 36-2502, Enlisted Airman Promotion/Demotion Programs, provides detailed information regarding enlisted promotion systems. Note: This chapter applies to Regular Air Force enlisted promotions.

2021 E5 Study Guide

8.2. Promotion Quotas
The Department of Defense limits the number of Airmen the RegAF may have in the top five enlisted grades. Promotion quotas for Staff Sergeant through Chief Master Sergeant are tied to fiscal year-end strength and are affected by funding limits, regulatory limits, and the number of projected vacancies in specific grades. Public law, as outlined in Title 10, U.S.C., Armed Forces, Chapter 36, Promotion, Separation, and Involuntary Retirement of Officers on the Active Duty List, limits the number of Airmen who may serve in the RegAF in the top two enlisted grades. The authorized average of enlisted members on RegAF status (other than for training) in pay grades E-8 and E-9 in a fiscal year may not be more than 2.5 percent and 1.25 percent, respectively.

2021 E6 Study Guide

8.2. Promotion Quotas
The Department of Defense limits the number of Airmen the Regular Air Force may have in the top five enlisted grades. Promotion quotas for Staff Sergeant through Chief Master Sergeant are tied to fiscal year-end strength and are affected by funding limits, regulatory limits, and the number of projected vacancies in specific grades. Public law, as outlined in Title 10 United States Code, Armed Forces, limits the number of Airmen who may serve in the Regular Air Force in the top two enlisted grades. The authorized average of enlisted members on Regular Air Force status (other than for training) in pay grades E-8 and E-9 in a fiscal year may not be more than 2.5 percent and 1.25 percent, respectively.

2021 E5 Study Guide

8.3. Weighted Airman Promotion System. NCOs and SNCOs compete for promotion and test under the Weighted Airman Promotion System (WAPS) in the control Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) held on the promotion eligibility cutoff date. Contributing factors are "weighted" or assigned points based on the importance relative to promotion. The PFE contains a wide range of USAF knowledge, while the SKT covers AFSC broad technical knowledge. The USAF makes promotion selections under the WAPS within each AFSC, not across all AFSCs. This means those who are eligible will compete for promotion with those individuals currently working in their AFSC. Selectees are individuals with the highest scores in each AFSC, within the quota limitations. If more than one individual has the same total score at the cutoff point, the USAF promotes everyone with that score.

2021 E6 Study Guide

8.3. Weighted Airman Promotion System. NCOs and SNCOs compete for promotion and test under the Weighted Airman Promotion System (WAPS) in the control Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) held on the promotion eligibility cutoff date. Contributing factors are "weighted" or assigned points based on the importance relative to promotion. The PFE contains a wide range of Air Force knowledge, while the SKT covers AFSC broad technical knowledge. The Air Force makes promotion selections under the WAPS within, not across, each AFSC. This means those who are eligible will compete for promotion with those individuals currently working in their AFSC. Selectees are individuals with the highest scores in each AFSC, within the quota limitations. If more than one individual has the same total score at the cutoff point, the Air Force promotes everyone with that score.

2021 E5 Study Guide

8.4. Promotion Cycles and Eligibility

The USAF establishes promotion cycles to ensure timely periodic promotions and to permit accurate forecasting of vacancies. Promotion cycles also balance the promotion administrative workload and provide promotion eligibility cutoff dates (PECD). Factors for promotion eligibility may include: proper skill level, sufficient time in grade, sufficient time in service, commander recommendation, completion of enlisted professional military education (PME), completion of a college degree, cumulative years of enlisted service, and high year of tenure. Note: Air Force Reserve promotions are based on a combination of position vacancy, time-in-grade, time-in-service, fitness, and completion of appropriate professional military education.

2021 E6 Study Guide

8.4. Promotion Cycles and Eligibility

The Air Force establishes promotion cycles to ensure timely periodic promotions and to permit accurate forecasting of vacancies. Promotion cycles also balance the promotion administrative workload and provide promotion eligibility cutoff dates (PECD). Factors for promotion eligibility may include: proper skill level, sufficient time in grade, sufficient time in service, commander recommendation, completion of enlisted professional military education (PME), completion of a college degree, cumulative years of enlisted service, and high year of tenure.

Note: Air Force Reserve promotions are based on a combination of position vacancy, time-in- grade, time-in-service, fitness, and completion of appropriate professional military education.

2021 E5 Study Guide

8.11. Enlisted Promotion Test Compromise
Airmen must use a self-initiated program of individual study and effort under the Weighted Airman Promotion System (WAPS). Group study (two or more people) for the purposes of enlisted promotion testing is strictly prohibited. This prohibition protects the integrity of the promotion testing program by ensuring promotion test scores are a reflection of each member's individual knowledge. Enlisted personnel who violate these prohibitions are subject to prosecution under Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice for violating a lawful general regulation. Conviction can result in a dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, and confinement for up to two years. Information concerning enlisted promotion test compromise is contained in AFMAN 36-2664.

2021 E6 Study Guide

8.11. Enlisted Promotion Test Compromise
Airmen must use a self-initiated program of individual study and effort under the Weighted Airman Promotion System (WAPS). Group study (two or more people) for the purposes of enlisted promotion testing is strictly prohibited. This prohibition protects the integrity of the promotion testing program by ensuring promotion test scores are a reflection of each member's individual knowledge. Enlisted personnel who violate these prohibitions are subject to prosecution under Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice for violating a lawful general regulation. Conviction can result in a dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, and confinement for up to two years. Information concerning enlisted promotion test compromise is contained in AFI 36-2605, Air Force Military Personnel Testing System.

2021 E5 Study Guide

8.12. Distribution of Enlisted Promotion Test Study References
The Barnes Center for Enlisted Education, Air Force Career Development Academy is responsible for providing promotion-eligible members access to WAPS Career Development Courses. They are available on-line at: http://cdc.aetc.af.mil/. The site is updated to coincide with release of the EPRRC. Study materials, such as instructions, manuals, or technical orders, are made available online at: http://www.e-publishing.af.mil or other approved repositories. Individuals may ask unit WAPS monitors to order study reference material listed in the catalog that is not locally available. According to AFMAN 36-2664, promotion eligible Airmen must have access to reference materials at least 60 days before the scheduled test date. If not, the Airman may request a delay in testing.

2021 E6 Study Guide

8.12. Distribution of Enlisted Promotion Test Study References
The Barnes Center for Enlisted Education, Air Force Career Development Academy is responsible for providing promotion eligible members access to WAPS Career Development Courses. They are available on-line at: http://cdc.aetc.af.mil/. The site is updated to coincide with release of the EPRRC. Study materials, such as instructions, manuals, or technical orders, are made available online at: http://www.e-publishing.af.mil or other approved repositories. Individuals may ask unit WAPS monitors to order study reference material listed in the catalog that is not locally available. According to AFI 36-2605, promotion eligible Airmen must have access to reference materials at least 60 days before the scheduled test date. If not, the Airman may request a delay in testing.

2021 E5 Study Guide

8.14. Data Verification Record

The Data Verification Record (DVR) is the document utilized for promotion consideration and is the most important tool to review to ensure information on a promotion record is complete. All eligible Airmen must review their DVR in the Automated Records Management System/Personnel Records Display Application (ARMS/PRDA). If an error or omission is noted, the Airman must immediately contact his or her military personnel flight for assistance. The military personnel flight will update the Military Personnel Data System with the correct data and update the DVR on virtual military personnel flight. Airmen should review the updated record to verify changes have been completed accurately. Data reflected on the DVR should not be confused with the Data Verification Brief or a Single Unit Retrieval Format, commonly referred to as SURF.

Data Verification Record Review Steps:

2021 E6 Study Guide

8.14. Data Verification Record

The Data Verification Record (DVR) is the document utilized for promotion consideration and is the most important tool to review to ensure information on a promotion record is complete. All eligible Airmen must review their DVR in the Automated Records Management System/Personnel Records Display Application (ARMS/PRDA). If an error or omission is noted, the Airman must immediately contact his or her military personnel flight for assistance. The military personnel flight will update the Military Personnel Data System with the correct data and update the DVR on virtual military personnel flight. Airmen should review the updated record to verify changes have been completed accurately. Data reflected on the DVR should not be confused with the Data Verification Brief or a Single Unit Retrieval Format, commonly referred to as SURF.

Data Verification Record Review Steps:

2021 E5 Study Guide

8.15. Promotion Test Development

The Air Education and Training, Studies and Analysis Squadron, Airman Advancement Section, Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, produces all USAF enlisted promotion tests, which are written by Airmen for Airmen. Teams of SNCOs travel to work in-house with test development specialists and apply their knowledge and expertise to develop current, relevant, and accurate test questions for enlisted promotion testing. At the beginning of a test development project, the most current tests are administered to the test development teams. This gives test writers the point of view of the test takers and helps them evaluate how the test content relates to performance in their specialties. Teams will also carefully check the references of each question for currency and accuracy. Only after this is accomplished do the teams begin developing new test questions. During test development, test development specialists provide psychometric and developmental expertise required to ensure the tests are credible, valid, and fair to all examinees.

Promotion Fitness Examination. The Promotion Fitness Examinations (PFE) measure military and supervisory knowledge required of Staff Sergeants, Technical Sergeants, and Master Sergeants. For the PFE, test development specialists select Chief Master Sergeants based on USAF demographics, extensive experience, and diverse major command representation to develop and validate questions.

Specialty Knowledge Tests. Specialty Knowledge Tests (SKT) measure important job knowledge required in a particular specialty. For SKTs, test development specialists work closely with USAF career field managers to stay abreast of changes affecting career fields which may impact promotion test development. SNCOs, based on their specialties and job experiences, are selected to develop and validate SKT questions. Resources used to develop SKEs include Career Field Education and Training Plans, occupational analysis data, and experiences to ensure test content is related to important tasks performed in the specialty.

2021 E6 Study Guide

8.15. Promotion Test Development

The Air Education and Training, Studies and Analysis Squadron, Airman Advancement Section, Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, produces all Air Force enlisted promotion tests, which are written by Airmen for Airmen. Teams of SNCOs travel to work in-house with test development specialists and apply their knowledge and expertise to develop current, relevant, and accurate test questions for enlisted promotion testing. At the beginning of a test development project, the most current tests are administered to the test development teams. This gives test writers the point of view of the test takers and helps them evaluate how the test content relates to performance in their specialties. Teams will also carefully check the references of each question for currency and accuracy. Only after this is accomplished do the teams begin developing new test questions. During test development, test development specialists provide psychometric and developmental expertise required to ensure the tests are credible, valid, and fair to all examinees.

Promotion Fitness Examination. The Promotion Fitness Examinations (PFE) measure military and supervisory knowledge required of Staff Sergeants, Technical Sergeants, and Master Sergeants. For the PFE, test development specialists select Chief Master Sergeants based on Air Force demographics, extensive experience, and diverse major command representation to developand validate questions.

Specialty Knowledge Tests. Specialty Knowledge Tests (SKT) measure important job knowledge required in a particular specialty. For SKTs, test development specialists work closely with Air Force career field managers to stay abreast of changes affecting career fields which may impact promotion test development. SNCOs, based on their specialties and job experiences, are selected to develop and validate SKT questions. Resources used to develop SKEs include Career Field Education and Training Plans, occupational analysis data, and experiences to ensure test content is related to important tasks performed in the specialty.

2021 E5 Study Guide

8.16. Enlisted Promotions References and Requirements Catalog

Published annually on 1 October, the Enlisted Promotions References and Requirements Catalog (EPRRC), lists all enlisted promotion tests authorized for administration and the study references associated with these tests. Every question on a promotion test comes from one of the publications listed in the EPRRC, and only publications used to support questions on a given promotion test are listed. The study references for the PFE are the grade-specific Enlisted Promotion Study Guides derived from DAFH 1. The study references for SKTs are often a combination of Career Development Courses and technical references. Career Development Courses used as study references may be different from those issued for upgrade training. The catalog also contains administrative and special instructions for test control officers. The EPRRC is available at: https://www.omsq.af.mil/.

2021 E6 Study Guide

8.16. Enlisted Promotions References and Requirements Catalog

Published annually on 1 October, the Enlisted Promotions References and Requirements Catalog (EPRRC), lists all enlisted promotion tests authorized for administration and the study references associated with these tests. Every question on a promotion test comes from one of the publications listed in the EPRRC, and only publications used to support questions on a given promotion test are listed. The study references for the PFE are the grade-specific Enlisted Promotion Study Guides derived from AFH 1, Airman. The study references for SKTs are often a combination of Career Development Courses and technical references. Career Development Courses used as study references may be different from those issued for upgrade training. The catalog also contains administrative and special instructions for test control officers. The EPRRC is available at: https://www.omsq.af.mil/.

2021 E5 Study Guide

8.18. Promotion Points

Calculating points for promotion can be a somewhat complex, but not complicated process. The complete charts, to include exceptions and notes for calculating points and factors for promotion, are included in AFI 36-2502.

2021 E6 Study Guide

8.18. Promotion Points

Calculating points for promotion can be a somewhat complex, but not complicated process. The complete charts, to include exceptions and notes for calculating points and factors for promotion, are included in AFI 36-2502, Enlisted Airman Promotion/Demotion Programs.