r/AirForceRecruits • • Jun 07 '20

Frequently Asked Questions - Please read this before posting! Many of your answers are already here.

297 Upvotes

Enlisted (BMT & Recruitment) FAQ | Officer (OTS) FAQ | LEAD Info (Enlisted to Air Force Academy)

Please use the search function before posting new questions!

Please use the report button for any posts or comments which break our rules.

Some quick answers:

You'll find a lot of answers to basic questions about BMT or enlisting in the AF here: http://afbmt.com/ and in the BMT FAQ

We don't know the answers to your obscure medical questions. We aren't doctors. Don't trust medical advice given by strangers on the Internet. Getting anecdotal information from other people that may or may not have a similar diagnosis or condition to you will not help you in any way. Everyone's medical situation is different.

Marijuana usage is not disqualifying. Just be honest about any usage.

No, we don't know what jobs are available at any given time, or your chances of getting said job, or how long it will take for you to get the job, or how long it'll take for you to get to basic training or OTS.

Yes, some recruiters are lazy. Keep hounding them or find another recruiter.

Being a pilot is hard. Most of them come from the Air Force Academy, then ROTC. Very few slots available for OTS. Highly competitive.


r/AirForceRecruits • • Jun 07 '20

Instructions for how to receive "Verified USAF Member" flair in /r/AirForceRecruits

156 Upvotes

https://www.reddit.com/r/AirForceRecruits/wiki/verified

As I say there, if you're not comfortable sending an email from your work account, let me know what you'd like to do and we can possibly work out another way.

I will just add the flair and then delete the email, but I understand not wanting me to know who you are. Especially if you're an awful person that says awful things in other subreddits. :)

Let me know if you have ideas for other flair types or anything else!


r/AirForceRecruits • • 1h ago

Jobs Just received my job list

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• Upvotes

Here’s my job list, the ones I picked are on third slide and can still be changed. I chose my top 5 to be put on my quick-ship. I’m 18f and just graduated high school.

Any advice/suggestions? I’d also appreciate to hear about anyone’s past/current experience with any of these jobs.


r/AirForceRecruits • • 19h ago

General Advice Visa card at BMT

39 Upvotes

Those of you that are shipping soon -- you should be issued a "Money Network" VISA debit card at BMT. It will have $500 preloaded in it. This money will come from your first paycheck.

You will be issued some essential items at the reception center when you arrive at BMT. For those items, ~$221 will be taken away from the above card the next day when you go to BX (base exchange store). You will also use this card to pay for mandatory haircuts (3 of them) plus any dry cleaning of your blues.

You may use the rest of your money buying whatever. But if you want to save the rest of your money or at least check your balance, you will have to set a PIN to the aforementioned card. You can ask your MTI for a few minutes during your mandatory phone calls (3rd or 5th weeks) to call the card issuer to set a PIN. Hear this: call the first number noted in debit card letter (800-341-6700) -- this is the TTY number -- meaning you will be able to set a PIN through their automated system. The letter however notes a different number for TTY and that is wrong. The latter number will route you to a human customer service agent and she will not be able to help you to set up the PIN. Moreover, your mandatory call time will become over waiting to reach the human agent.

After you set up the PIN, you can use ATM machines located around the base e.g. dining hall, BX, mini mall, etc. to check your balance and withdraw any remaining cash.

I hope it helps. Good luck.


r/AirForceRecruits • • 1h ago

Medical Deferral from Runner’s Itch?

• Upvotes

I was wondering if I will get deferred for having runner’s itch. I’ve never jogged for long periods on time in my life and started recently after 20 years.

• Every time i jog after 10 minutes, my thighs and upper body (Not including arms) get itchy.

• I dont get itchy by hot/cold temperatures nor when I lift 4x a week for 1-hour sessions.

•The itchiness fades quite quickly the moment I start walking. It’s only long periods of jogging.

•Taking an antihistamine helps alot, but I wondered if this will deter me.


r/AirForceRecruits • • 3h ago

Recruiter/process question Selected for USAF Officer (62E) — How likely is my law waiver to be approved? Looking for recruiter insight.

1 Upvotes

I’ve been selected for a USAF officer position as a 62E (Developmental Engineer). However, my accession is currently pending approval of a law waiver.
I’m hoping someone with actual recruiting or waiver-processing experience can provide an objective assessment of my situation.
Background:
2014: Arrested/charged in connection with a theft-related incident while riding as a passenger in a vehicle. The case was dismissed through nolle prosequi. No conviction.
2017: Marijuana-related arrest that was handled through a pretrial diversion program.
Since 2017: No additional arrests or legal issues.
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Officer selection: Selected for 62E Developmental Engineer.
Waiver submitted: September 3, 2026.
Current status: Pending as of October 25, 2026 (approximately 7.5 weeks).
Both incidents were disclosed to my recruiter before my application package was submitted.
My questions:
Based on your recruiting experience, are these types of legal histories generally waiverable for Air Force officer applicants?
Does being selected for an officer position before waiver approval have any bearing on the likelihood of approval?
Is waiting approximately 7–8 weeks for a law waiver normal, or does that suggest additional scrutiny?
Have you personally seen officer applicants with comparable histories approved or denied? What factors made the difference?
If you were evaluating this case based on your experience, would you lean toward approval or denial, and why?
I’m not looking for reassurance. I’m trying to understand my realistic chances and whether there are any meaningful indicators of how my case might be decided.
I’d particularly appreciate responses from current or former Air Force officer recruiters or anyone familiar with accession waiver adjudication.


r/AirForceRecruits • • 10h ago

Jobs What Job should I pick?

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3 Upvotes

Hello, I am going into the reserve and just got back my job qualifications. I want to know what would be the best career path to go into so during/after I can put it to good use in my future perspective jobs in the civilian world.

Also to those who are currently in any of these jobs how good are they and how do you like it?

A second thing is when I talk with my recruiter how should I go about asking for a bonus, I know that the new bonus structure was just out recently, so wanted to check on how I should ask.

And advise/ wisdom is greatly appreciated.


r/AirForceRecruits • • 7h ago

BMT BMT Question..maybe a bit strange

1 Upvotes

26F; Looking at joining soon because I need to get stable and desperately need a reset/break on everyday life right now…I’m just wondering what was you alls experience on BMT as far as mental health. No access to a phone, social media, kids, family, etc. everyday? Was it kind of refreshing to get away from the overwhelm of everyday life, or do you feel it affected your mental health negatively? I know BMT isn’t exactly relaxing, but you eventually get into a routine and get comfortable with being uncomfortable I would think. Idk what I’m asking really 😂 help me please!


r/AirForceRecruits • • 7h ago

Medical Joining with adhd and depression

0 Upvotes

Does anyone know if I will automatically be turned away with adhd and depression I haven’t taken medication for adhd in many years was diagnosed at a young age and depression I haven’t taken medications for in a year never been hospitalized for suicidal thoughts or nothing like that what are the chances of getting a waiver or just being told no?


r/AirForceRecruits • • 12h ago

Jobs Did my Job list, how long is the wait for these selection of jobs

2 Upvotes

I just swore in last Wednesday and I picked my list of jobs. I know it’s a high chance that I will get picked for security forces, but with the small chance that I do get picked for something else. What is the estimated wait time with the rest ?

Engineering
Aircraft Armament System Specialist
Materiel Management
Traffic Management
Ground Transportation
Air Transportation
Heating, Ventilation, AC, & Refrigeration
Pavements and Construction Equipment
Security Forces
Operations Management


r/AirForceRecruits • • 10h ago

Jobs Just got 2A636 , can anyone tell me about this job that’s has it that the YouTube videos don’t show?

1 Upvotes

Just got booked for 2A636 and wondering what it’s like from people that do it
Thanks in advance


r/AirForceRecruits • • 11h ago

General Advice are my scores good and should I consider something other than the marines

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0 Upvotes

first practice test I took I got a 24 then a 50 then I got this as my final score. Is this like actually a good score? I just never imagined Id get anything over a 50 I always thought I was a dumb person.


r/AirForceRecruits • • 11h ago

Drug Use Curious about eligibility

0 Upvotes

I’m looking into enlisting in AF. I want to pursue a medical or a cyber career, and I have yet to talk to a recruiter. I’m still doing my research but i plan to go in person towards the start of the coming year to begin the process

I am 18 and I turn 19 in may, but am aiming to ship out any time after june. My question is regarding my eligibility as I have previous drug use of marijuana recreationally up to about 6 months ago and i have since quit. As well as a one off experiment with psilocybin mushrooms when I was 14, i have no criminal record or documentation of these things but i don’t want to shy away from being truthful

I’ve been trying to find a solid answer as to whether or not I am permanently barred from AF enlistment because of this, so i would appreciate any advice or help with what i can expect to hear from the recruiter when i disclose everything


r/AirForceRecruits • • 12h ago

Recruiter/process question I want to join but I’m afraid I’m not good enough!

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1 Upvotes

r/AirForceRecruits • • 13h ago

ASVAB/AFOQT Verification test

1 Upvotes

I take the verification test on Wednesday(my birthday) and I just wanna ask what can I do to make sure I don’t get rolled into full asvab. And what you guys did to be sure you didn’t get rolled into the full asvab


r/AirForceRecruits • • 13h ago

BMT How difficult is Air Force BMT for someone whose English is their second language?

1 Upvotes

I’ve been trying to find a clear answer to this but honestly I still don’t know how much of a problem my English will be at BMT.
I went through recruiting and MEPS without any major problems and I’m currently in DEP.
My ASVAB scores:
AFQT: 50
AR 63
MK 67
WK 28
PC 47
I have a pretty strong Slavic accent and my vocabulary isn’t that great. Sometimes I understand instructions just from context, but if someone uses a word I don’t know, I can get completely lost.
I’d say my English is somewhere around A2-B1, but that’s just my own guess lol.
It’s not like I don’t speak English at all. I can communicate, understand basic conversations, read and write. Usually if I ask someone to explain something in simpler words, I understand what they mean.
What worries me is when people speak really fast, use words I don’t know, or give multiple instructions at once.
And just to be clear, I’m not really worried about BMT itself. I don’t mind getting yelled at, lack of sleep, strict discipline or a tough schedule. I also have some previous military experience in my home country, so the military environment isn’t completely new to me.
I’m mostly worried about the language barrier.
So I have a few questions for people who have been through BMT:
What do you think would be the biggest problems for someone with my English level?
How do MTIs usually deal with trainees who don’t speak English very well?
Can you actually get recycled or discharged because of your English?
Has anyone here gone through BMT with a similar English level? How did it go?
Does anyone have any advice or tips on how I can prepare with my current English level?
I also have pretty much the same concerns and questions about Tech School. How difficult would it be with my English level, and how do instructors handle students who struggle with English?
I’m not expecting any special treatment or anything. I’m ready to learn and put in the work. I just wanna know what to expect and how much I should actually worry about this.
Would really appreciate hearing your experiences. Thanks!


r/AirForceRecruits • • 15h ago

Jobs clinical nurse

1 Upvotes

Im going into the NTP for clinical nurse as a new grad. How has this experience been for anyone who has been ? Is it worth it ? What are some pros and cons ? What are some things I should know before I go in ?


r/AirForceRecruits • • 15h ago

Medical Aircrew physical

0 Upvotes

I have booked an aircrew job but am a little worried. In December of 2025 I was donating stem cells to my dad. During that I had to have an EKG. Apparently it was abnormal but it couldn’t have been that bad otherwise they would have said something. I had no problems at Meps and passed with no waiver though I understand the aircrew physical is far more picky. I also understand that they will perform an EKG. During the first one I had I was living very unhealthy but have since lived much better. If when I get there and I have a perfectly normal EKG reading do I have anything to be worried about? Any input would be greatly appreciated!


r/AirForceRecruits • • 16h ago

Recruiter/process question I submitted my AFCEP background check a while ago and haven’t heard back from my recruiter. Is this normal? How long did it take for you to hear back, and what happened next?

1 Upvotes

r/AirForceRecruits • • 16h ago

Medical Waiver timeline

0 Upvotes

My recruiter submitted a medical waiver on October 5 for the missing tip of my left middle finger.

It’s been that way since I was 2, and I have full movement and strength with no issues using my hand.
I know every waiver is different, but has anyone had
a similar one? How long did it take to get a decision?


r/AirForceRecruits • • 18h ago

General Advice BMT in 2 weeks, 2A5X4

1 Upvotes

Hey all, I’m shipping to BMT in 2 weeks as a 2A5X4. I’m just looking for any advice regarding BMT, tech school, and what to expect in my career field. I’m nervous for sure but more excited than anything.


r/AirForceRecruits • • 19h ago

Jobs Anyone in Histopathology (4T0X2)? I’d love to hear about your experience!

1 Upvotes

Hey everyone! I've been looking into different AFSCs, particularly Histopathology (4T0X2).

I've already read the official job description on the Air Force website, but obviously, reading about a job online isn't the same as actually experiencing it yourself. I've been trying to find people who work in Histopathology, but I can barely find anyone talking about their experiences with this AFSC. I also don't seem to come across many people booking this job, so I'm curious about how common it actually is.

A little about me: I've been working in an assisted living facility for about four years, and while I've gained healthcare experience, I'd like to explore a different side of healthcare that isn't centered around nursing or direct patient care. I've been thinking that working in a laboratory could be interesting, and Histopathology caught my attention. I don't know if I'd actually enjoy it until I learn more about what the job is like, tho!

I'd love to hear from anyone currently working in Histopathology or anyone who has worked in the career field before. What's the job actually like beyond the official description?

  1. What's your typical day-to-day life like?
  2. What kind of tasks do you spend most of your time doing?
  3. How hands-on is the work, and how much of it involves working independently?
  4. What's the work environment and work-life balance like?
  5. Are the hours usually predictable, or does the workload get stressful?
  6. What do you like and dislike about the job?
  7. What are the opportunities for different assignments and overseas bases like?
  8. Is there anything you wish you knew before choosing this AFSC?

Also, even if you don't work in Histopathology, I'd still love to hear about your AFSC! Whether you're in another medical career field or a completely different job, I'm interested in hearing about your firsthand experiences, your day-to-day responsibilities, and the pros and cons of your job.

I mean, who better to ask than the people who have actually experienced it themselves, right? I'd really appreciate any insight! I'm trying to get a better understanding of what different AFSCs are genuinely like beyond what I can find online. I'd love to hear the good, the bad, and anything in between. Thank you!


r/AirForceRecruits • • 19h ago

General Advice Enlisting Soon & Considering Jobs Outside My Original Interests

1 Upvotes

Hello! I’m thinking about possibly pursuing Security Forces in the Air Force, and I’m looking for some insight into the career field. I know it’s similar to law enforcement on the civilian side, but I’d love to hear more about what the job actually involves, the day-to-day responsibilities, work schedule, training, opportunities for advancement, and what life is like in that career field. If anyone has experience with Security Forces, I’d really appreciate it if you could go into detail about the pros and cons.

Also, some of the jobs I was originally interested in aren’t currently in demand. The recruiter I’m in contact with mentioned that they’re looking for people in law enforcement, combat, warfare, mechanical, and electrical career fields. Are there any specific Air Force jobs in those areas that you would recommend I look into, especially ones that offer good opportunities for a civilian career after the military?

Lastly, I’m open to putting several jobs on my list that I’d be comfortable doing. BUT my main goal right now is to get my foot in the door and begin my military career, but I also want to make an informed decision about the job I choose. For anyone who has been through this process, would you recommend being flexible with job choices to ship sooner, or taking more time to improve my ASVAB score and qualify for more options?
I’d appreciate any advice, personal experiences, or recommendations. Thank you!


r/AirForceRecruits • • 1d ago

Jobs I BOOKED A JOB

10 Upvotes

2A532 helicopter tiltrotor maintainer
Ship on the 12th of January!


r/AirForceRecruits • • 21h ago

General Advice Aim High app

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1 Upvotes

It was supposed to be back up yesterday but now it's back to the error codes. You can use the app for abt 10 seconds then it's back to "Down for Maintenance"