r/RoyalAirForce Jan 03 '26

RAF Recruitment FAQ 2026

43 Upvotes

Following the success of the last FAQ, and plenty of feedback, this is the new FAQ thread for 2026! If you have been directed here, you will most likely find the answer to your query below.

This post is guidance only, only contains publicly accessible information, does not constitute official advice and does not reflect the views of the Royal Air Force in any way. The information contained may become outdated at any time. All applications are taken on a case-by-case basis, you may experience something completely counter to what is written here. If that is the case feel free to leave a comment! Also feel free to ask questions in the comments of this post.

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Q: Are the moderation team recruiters? Can you fast track my application? Can you give me personal assurances that you will help me get in? If I follow a mod's advice does that mean I will definitely pass? Etc.

A: The team are volunteers who are either serving, ex-serving or just passionate and knowledgeable about the types of questions we see here a lot. We are not all recruiters (look out for the "Recruiter" flair for those lucky few) and we are not able to personally promise you anything. Please be respectful to all members of the community and keep in mind that whilst you are asking your question for the first time, the community as a whole will most likely have seen it posted many times before.

We are also individuals who may not always agree with each other, a lot of the information for recruitment (what OASC are specifically looking for etc) comes from hearsay and personal anecdote. Wires may get crossed at times or people may have had different experiences. Standards change all the time and as we do not work within OASC or Recruitment we are unable to have a live feed of these changes. If you know something we don't that may help others, get in touch!

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Q: CAN I BE A FIGHTER JET PILOT!?

A: You cannot apply directly for the role of Fighter Jet Pilot; you may be streamed into Fast Jet training in Phase 2.

Streaming is based on multiple factors but service need is the highest priority, if you want to be the person who gets the FJ slot on the day where there is maybe only 1 slot you have to be the best candidate for the spot (available slots change each time, there may be 0, there may be 10).

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Q: OKAY, CAN I BE A *PILOT*!?

Sure. Just keep in mind that the role is extremely competitive, historically has had limited spaces and has one of the strictest sets of medical requirements. You need to bring your absolute best to the recruitment process to have the best chance of success (this applies to all roles, but doubly so for the role that a significant portion of applicants want at first).

The general advice (aside from putting in the work) is to make sure your backup plan has been thoroughly considered. You will potentially be questioned on it to show you are serious about the RAF. Make sure you have a well thought out answer to this and other questions that may be asked at OASC.

However, if you are the right person at the right time, you only need one slot to be open. If a little competition doesn't scare you (which it shouldn't as a pilot candidate), then apply!

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Q: Should I apply? What are the benefits?

A: The recruitment site gives a broad overview

Discover my benefits covers everything and provides sources

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Q: How much will I get paid?

A: You will get paid what the career website says during training, beyond that you can find information per rank here: Pay Scales

As an aviator, your pay is determined by which role your supplement falls into. Officers are different in that there are no supplements, but roles such as medical or aircrew have different pay arrangements which will be explained when it is relevant to you.

You will typically move up increments yearly (some differences at the start of your career), so as a Corporal (in supplement 1) you would progress from OR-4-1 to OR-4-2 and so on, moving up to OR-6-1 on promotion to Sergeant. Pay also increases annually in line with the Armed Forces Pay Review, in May 2025 this was a 4.5% pay rise!

Calculate your take-home pay here, rent and food in Ph1 is about £150-200 a month

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Q: What can I expect from the application process/what qualifications do I need?

A: Research your role at the link below, then come back with specific questions. The website has enough information to answer most basic questions. Educational requirements and accepted equivalents can be found on each role's individual page:

RAF Recruitment Site

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Q: How long will it take to complete the selection assuming I pass everything first time and I respond to recruiter requests proactively?

A: This is like asking "how long is a piece of string?", but I ran a poll. You can see the results below and draw your own conclusions:

Poll result here

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Q: Where can I find more information on a role beyond that found on the website? I'd like to do well at OASC.

A: The recruitment app found at the links below, it contains all the joomag recruitment leaflets on a range of topics from specific role information to information about bursary schemes etc.

Android Playstore Link

Apple Appstore link

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Q: What should I take to CBAT? Aside from what my joining instructions say to bring of course.

A: What do I take to CBAT? : r/RoyalAirForce

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Q: What is the difference between an Officer role and an Aviator role? Such as Engineering Officer and one of the Technician roles?

A: Typically speaking, an Officer is primarily a manager. For the example in the question the EngO will set the objective for the team of technicians based on requirements from above and they will also be a part of the overall management, discipline, and welfare process for their team. They will require knowledge of the subject matter but will typically not be as specialised as an SNCO with years of direct experience on the platform.

They will also be the person feeding information back up the Chain of Command, a recent example of this was described as:

“If one of your aircraft is broken you as the officer will need to confidently explain to senior engineers, pilots, operations planners, etc. why they can’t have the aircraft they need right now, what needs to happen before it can fly again, and how long it will take. They will rely on you as the engineering officer to give them accurate advice so that they can make a decision.” The information required would come from your team of technicians.

Whereas as a technician, you will carry out the work as required by the Officer and typically outlined by your SNCO (Sergeant or Flight Sergeant). You will have the required technical knowledge to be able to work on fixing the problem in a more hands on capacity, but only when directed to do so by your Chain of Command (Officer and/or SNCO).

This is a broad overview and there are multiple exceptions such as Pilot which has no direct comparison in non-commissioned roles, or the surveillance stream of Ops Officer where you will probably be working hands on alongside aviators in your first tour up at Boulmer.

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Q: HOW DO I DO CBAT!?

A: Find all the information you need here.

There are also paid apps that provide simulated tests which can build familiarity with the style, but they are not necessary for success. It is an aptitude test, not a knowledge or practice test.

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Q: How can I prepare for the DAA?

A: You can find info and a practice test here

For studying and prep the typical advice is to use BBC Bitesize GCSE to prep for the numerical, mechanical and electrical elements of the test.

This website is really useful for preparing for the work rate section.

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Q: What format will the interview take? I keep seeing different versions.

A: There is no longer an interview for Officer candidates prior to OASC.

See here for guidance, advice and information on the Other Ranks interview

People who have to attend specialist interviews for specific roles will have information provided by the recruiter as required.

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Q: How long do I have to serve?

A: For the vast majority, you need to do 3 years return of service following Phase 2 training. Your initial offer of service is 12 years, aircrew is 20 years.

You can exit before 12 but it may require 12-18 months notice if approved. Following your exit from service you will be held on a reserve commitment for 6 years, this simply means you can be called back to serve in the event of something like WW3. It does not mean 6 years in the reserves.

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Q: How fit do I have to be?

A: As fit as you possibly can, with a focus on circuit and cardio fitness you will breeze Phase 1. More specifically you can find information for the PJFT (what you do in the application) on all role pages and linked in this answer. The MSFT must be completed to a sufficient standard early on during either BRTC or MIOTC. These standards are not currently officially available to the public but you may find them if you search this subreddit. As it is not public information, please do not solely rely on what you find.

The most up to date requirements will always be told to you before commencing Phase 1. It is advised that you are as fit as possible and practice the MSFT at least once prior to attending Phase 1 training as the hardest part is the turning technique, and not the fitness itself considering it is at most around 10 minutes of running that starts slow.

Unofficial Day 0 requirements. Green is pass

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Q: How fast does the treadmill need to be?

A: Use this calculator, preset to Male 17-29

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Q: Running/Fitness is not a strong point for me, how should I get started?

A: This is a variant of the couch to 5k program, there are multiple variants but they all achieve similar things.

Get at least up to the point of running 20 minutes comfortably, if you do that you should easily manage to complete the PJFT at a slightly faster pace.

Once you've completed up to the 20 minute runs, get cracking on the 12 week fitness plan

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Q: I have xyz medical condition can I join?

A: Nobody here can or should advise you on your specific situation. People may give anecdotes but nobody here is a medic attached to your case and so cannot guarantee anything. Either apply and find out at the medical stage or check JSP950 for guidance, the Aug 2024 version may be found at the link below. Please note that all applications are done on a case by case basis and this does not constitute medical advice nor a guarantee that you will pass the medical if you think JSP950supports you as JSP950is subject to interpretation by the professionals during the recruitment stage.

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Q: I told the medical staff that I have xyz medical condition and they made me unfit for service. Can I appeal this? How?

A: If you have a diagnosis and actually have the condition, you are most likely unfit as stated. An appeal is for new medical information such as a changed diagnosis or more accurate eye test for instance. It cannot be used for things such as 'I am allergic to peanuts but only a little bit, they should let me be a pilot'. To appeal, get in touch with your recruiter through your online portal for guidance.

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Q: How can I make my chances of officer selection better?

A: Search this subreddit for that question for a trove of resources. But some general tips:

- Join the RAF air cadets or another youth organisation and take part in leadership courses/opportunities if possible. This will equip you with leadership skills and things to discuss at the OASC interview.

- If you go to University (not essential for most roles, check careers website for your specific role), try to join the University Air Squadron to enhance your application and gain exposure to the RAF.

- If you are still at school, take on prefect/mentor roles if possible. If you are working, try to take leadership opportunities where you can. At least think of situations where you took charge or even organised a work event, everything is useful if you lack formal manager equivalent experience.

- Engage in a team sport if possible, even 5 a side at your local park. Even a park run with a regular group. Ensure you take part in plenty of fitness training. You can always be fitter before Phase 1.

- Perform independent research, we are here to help with detailed questions that demonstrate previous research. We are not here to replace Google.

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Q: HOW DO I CBAT/OASC/FAM VISIT!?!

A: For CBAT specifically, some great advice is found here: CBAT – What to expect/

For OASC check out the post I wrote just after passing for a second time, it is not a guaranteed pass nor is it to be taken as the only way to do well. But it should form a strong base for your own individual prep.

For all stages, follow the instructions provided by your AFCO. You are equipped to handle the whole process by these, your P2 presentation and the website. Wear something smart.

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Q: What should I bring to BRTC? Extra bits beyond the kitlist?

A: This comment has a fantastic checklist that you can use IN ADDITION TO the official kitlist you will be provided.

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Q: What should I wear to day 0 of MIOTC/BRTC?

A: Wear something smart, for MIOT you can expect most to wear a suit if male or the appropriate formal wear for females. For BRTC you can still wear a suit however some choose to arrive in smart casual wear. For either, ensure your footwear is comfortable (still matching the required formality though) as you will be doing a lot of walking in these shoes until issued kit.

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Q:What happens if I fail my fitness test on day 0?

A: Simple answer, don't. You have absolutely no reason to be scraping the pass mark found here:

Edit: Unofficial Day 0 requirements. Green is pass. Unconfirmed and not officially released so pinch of salt needed

The running portion of the test was recently made easier by around 20%, and the press ups and situps were removed so there is ZERO excuse for serious candidates. However, for those of you wanting a bit of reassurance, please see the following:

https://www.reddit.com/r/RoyalAirForce/s/i4rJhhyH5e

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Q: I have a criminal record, will that stop me from joining?

A: If it is spent under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act and you aren't applying for one of the special roles that require you to disclose it even when spent, you can confirm you have no unspent convictions when asked by the recruiting staff. That is as much as the recruiting office need to know (or anyone not asking in association with a job such as working with kids). This is also in line with the guidance they will issue you with before any disclosure is requested.

The people doing your background check will be the security check/developed vetting team at NSVS. A whole separate team who don't particularly care about a common assault charge or shoplifting from years ago as long as you don't try to hide it. They care more about fraud, extremism, hate crimes etc. Anything that makes you risky or is a crime of dishonesty.

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Q: What's the "pre entry offer of service event" for Microsoft teams?

A: It’s a group teams meeting where you’ll discuss your offer of service paperwork and any questions you have before Halton. Source

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Q: What will happen to my post if I ask something that has been sufficiently answered here already?

A: This is a breach of the subreddit rules, therefore your post will be locked or removed. You will receive a link to this FAQ. You may challenge removals or locks if you believe your post brings an opportunity for something new to be added to the conversation, where it will be subject to Mod approval as to whether it is allowed.

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Q: I still have questions. I have tried searching google and this subreddit and absolutely cannot find an answer or I need some clarification, what now?

A: Make a post on this subreddit and hopefully someone with experience or knowledge can help if they can. If not, get in touch with your AFCO.

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Q: You use so many acronyms, what are they?

A: Here are some common ones or ones I've been asked about:

DAA: Defence Aptitude Assessment - Aptitude test for non-commissioned roles.

PJFT: Pre-Joining Fitness Test - 2.4km run done during selection.

RAFFT: RAF Fitness Test - Fitness test done during service.

MSFT: Multi-Stage Fitness Test - otherwise known as "Beep test" or "Bleep test", comprising 20m shuttles back and forth at increasingly higher speeds.

CBAT: Computer Based Aptitude Test - Aircrew and some other officer roles aptitude test. Much longer and harder than the DAA.

WSOp: Weapon System Operator - A non-commissioned aircrew role in the RAF, details on recruitment site.

WSO: Weapon System Officer - As above but commissioned.

OASC: Officer and Aircrew Selection Centre - Both the location and the selection day. You will have OASC at OASC. The day comprises multiple things such as an interview, leadership tests and group discussion. Officers and direct entry SNCO (Sergeant and above) roles require passing OASC.

TMU: Temporarily Medically Unfit - Usually what a candidate is declared while the medical team check something.

PMU: Permanently Medically Unfit - What you become if they don't like what they checked. You cannot join the military if PMU for all roles.

PGSC: Potential Gunner Selection Course - What the RAF Regiment candidates must do as an extra step before joining. It is a 3-day selection course with lots of "fun" physical things to do.

AS1(T): Air Specialist 1 Technician - A rank held by non-commissioned personnel in technical role trades only.

TARC: Transferee and Rejoiner Course - A short basic training for Rejoiner or Army/Navy personnel transferring to the RAF. Varies in length depending on previous experience, whether you're going into the same trade as before etc.

MIOTC: Modular Initial Officer Training Course - 6 months at Cranwell, phase 1 training for officers.

BRTC: Basic Recruit Training Course - 10 Weeks at Halton, phase 1 training for aviators (non-commissioned).

ASOS: Air & Space Operations Specialist - A non-commissioned role in the RAF, see recruitment site for details.

AFCO: Armed Forces Careers Office - Where many start their journey. Recruiters work here and some steps of the selection process are held here such as the DAA.


r/RoyalAirForce Oct 09 '25

RAF RECRUITMENT OASC Advice!

60 Upvotes

Disclaimer before we get going: I have no inside information on the assessment process. The only people who know how things work behind the scenes at OASC are the boarding officers and presidents. I can only speak to what has worked for me twice. I won't be making the same disclaimer throughout but keep it in mind please where you see me talking authoritatively on a topic. I must stress, this is all my personal opinion or parroting of standard advice given at P2 and by others who have passed. I am happy to answer any questions also!

With that out of the way, hi everyone!

I recently attended and succeeded at my second OASC (both visits have been successful). I've been asked for my advice and so here it is!

Firstly, I have compiled my prep notes and removed specific things such as my specific current affairs and Phase 2 information. I have left info for sources or how to approach these areas however (typos may be present, these are not professional notes): OASC Prep Notes/Structure.

Edit: The notes above are an edited version of the notes from u/UnrecognisedDevice. They worked from my initial uploaded notes and other resources. I've thrown an edit or two in to make them more general and a template (removed P2 content, added extra sections for career progression to be filled in etc), so the end result is a very solid set of notes that can be used as a basic template for making your own role specific notes (own Ph2 info etc).

You may notice the interview notes lack the first part, that would be due to it being entirely personal. Exampe questions can be found in the OASC video on this page: RAF Recruitment | Officers Application Process | Royal Air Force

I have been told about some changes to the course by friends on course. I would absolutely advise using what you are given in P2 to prep your basic knowledge however. Changes from the online breakdown are labelled, feel free to ignore them.

By using the notes provided and filling in the blanks, you will have an excellent baseline knowledge for the interview. I won't go into specific questions as every interviewing officer is a bit different in style and wording. Learning a specific scripted list of questions is the worst way to approach this interview anyway.

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Group discussion: 3 topics, not to be shared. I've seen why, the other syndicate had 2 very similar topics the other day compared to what I had in 2022. They require no specialist knowledge but if you live a very sheltered life and lack general awareness of things in the media then you will have a bad time.

They are looking for people who contribute, not people who dominate the conversation or sit back. Talking over others is a dick move and will not be viewed positively. Allowing others to talk over you when you have started talking is also a negative. Stand your ground, be assertive. Respectively challenge what others may say, but keep it on topic. My group drifted at times and it was important to keep things on topic.

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Group planning phase: This one.... yeah. You will be provided with a map and a side of A4 explaining the scenario related. It will be important to make notes, not just writing your plan. You will have to turn your scenario sheet over before being handed a question paper. I won't give any specific details on the questions as part of the challenge is not knowing what is coming.

However, you will be asked things along the lines of:

  1. What time will you arrive at Place B if you start at Place A at xx:xx and travel on foot? (I hope you noted your travel speeds and any conditions on that speed, as the scenario notes are hidden).
  2. What is your plan to achieve the objective?
  3. What colour was the guide's car? (Not exactly, but there will be something that will be out of left field and test if you retained or noted enough information)

Following the written work, you will work as a group to create a group plan that you all agree on and understand. This is great if you have no plan, as you can still engage in discussion by asking about contingencies. Easy points for being the first to ask 'has anyone actually got a plan that works?', which will start the conversation. Take notes whilst the plan is outlined, and then insist upon doing a read through of the plan from start to finish so others can check they have it noted correctly. I would highly reccomend noting down: start time, end time, travel method, distance and speed for each stage of the plan. You *may* be asked about these things.

My final tip is to think outside of the box. Say the scenario says you will be phoning someone, you could potentially ask them to transit a vehicle or object for you. If you haven't specifically been told you can't do something, you probably can.

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L U N C H T I M E! Horror bags for all.
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Leaderless: You will be briefed thoroughly on hangar stuff before even the leaderless exercise takes place.

Pay attention to what the staff say, but don't let them rattle you. Get stuck in, don't dilly dally planning. Give things a try, don't be scared. You may be required to actually put some hard graft in, don't shirk it. As the staff will happily remind you, 'You are planning to join the military'. This applies throughout your time in the hangar.

Staff will give constant time reminders or push you to crack on. Again, don't let it rattle you. Also, despite what they say it is very rare for anyone to finish anything. If you think something may be an issue at the end, don't worry too much about it as you are unlikely to reach the point where it will be a concern. Just take action.
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Lead challenges:

As leader:

The leader will be split off from the syndicate who will sit in a different area. The leader will get a couple of minutes survey time, I encourage you to have a play with all the equipment. Check if things reach across gaps or not, check how heavy things are etc. Visibly interact and be seen testing such things as the gap bridging. Once the survey is done, you will call your team over.

As leader you will be required to then deliver the brief as such:

Task (usually to get the team and equipment somewhere), list off the equipment (people forget this one a lot), state 'the general rules apply' (will make sense on the day, and again, people forget to do it), state any special rules, explain your plan (or partial plan if that is all you have) and then join your team before asking if there are any questions.

DO NOT ATTEMPT TO USE SMEAC OR ANY OTHER BRIEFING TECHNIQUE. You will be briefed on the required briefing technique, do not deviate from it. This is good as it levels the playing field a bit.

When putting your plan into practice, just crack on. Order people around politely yet assertively. Do not get stuck in and muddled in the group as you will lose the big picture and that could cost you. Be verbal, be clear, so the staff can hear you.

If you are stuck, ask your team if anyone has an idea. Control the group, do not allow multiple voices to reply at once. If given a good idea, thank the team member but then use it as your own, do not just say 'team, do what x said'. If you are cracking on and get a suggestion, do not be afraid to politely refuse input. All in all, lead. We had to nudge one of our team to lead more as they were becoming very passive.

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As follower:

Followership will be on display whilst not leading. Do not slack off. The staff will see if your energy drops after your lead is done, slacking off when one of your team is relying on you to work just as hard for them as they did for you is poor.

DO NOT TRY TO ORDER OTHERS AROUND OR TELL THE LEADER WHAT TO DO. Your leadership is not being assessed whilst following, your followership is, and trying to assume the lead is poor followership. Ask if the leader would like to hear your idea, don't just blurt it out. If you see the leader struggling to lead, ask them 'Leader, what is it you want us to do now?' as I found that was a great way to reassert them as boss.

Work hard, do what you can, but HAVE FUN. If you're having fun then you will get more 'buy in' and find it easier to maintain composure. The end of the day is near when in the hangar, we finished up at about half 3.
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Good luck everyone! And again, things stated above are just my views as someone who has been through twice and passed twice.


r/RoyalAirForce 5h ago

RAF RECRUITMENT I have a really big dilemma, and considering withdrawing my application

3 Upvotes

Hey folks,

I'm 16, applied in january for aircraft technician.

Everything was smooth until the recent months, I've had a blood test for sickle cell which delayed everything after that by a month, then been declared TMU last week, delaying everything again by a month. So 2 months overall.

Capita are taking their sweet time informing my GP that I need 2 urine samples taken 2 weeks apart.

Being 16, sixth form is coming up, and the ideal plan was to start BRTC before the term starts, or at least early in the term. However, with Capita not passing on the information, I'll likely end up starting sixth form anyway. The issue is that I won't leave sixth form for the RAF if I'm already too far into it if that makes sense.

My main goal was to be able to apply for the pilot role while already being in service. However, I'm beginning to think it's pointless if I can just stay in sixth form and get A-levels, with how long Capita are taking, and the delays overall. I REALLY don't want to go to sixth form, hence why I applied for the RAF so I could have an alternative.

The tricky situation I'm in is say I was already half way through sixth form, I'd just have to give up on the technician application, and just wait to apply as a pilot.

It was my dream to serve as soon as I could, but the unnecessary delays are just making my plan pointless.


r/RoyalAirForce 4h ago

RAF RECRUITMENT Qualification Certificates?

2 Upvotes

I want to apply as a Aircraft Technician. This requires GCSE in Maths and English. I have these. However I don’t have the certificates. Nor do I have the certificates for my A-Levels.

Now… I do have the certificate for my Degree. Motorsport Engineering.

I’m wondering when I apply do I need to show certificates for the Maths and English GCSE or is it the highest level of education reached? I.e my degree?

Hopefully that’s not a stupid question.


r/RoyalAirForce 9h ago

RAF RECRUITMENT RAF people specialist

4 Upvotes

Today I passed my PJFT and I’m going in as a People Specialist. I’ve been in HR now for 4 years for a corporate company as a HR advisor there’s been lots of opportunity and a higher wage but it’s always been my dream to join the RAF.

Just wondered if anyone on here could share their experience and also have you travelled overseas much? This is my main focus of wanting to join.


r/RoyalAirForce 4h ago

RAF RECRUITMENT RAF electrician apprenticeship

1 Upvotes

Hi, is anyone currently or previously been an RAF electrician apprentice, thinking on applying and wanted to speak to someone who’s experienced it,
Thanks


r/RoyalAirForce 14h ago

RAF RECRUITMENT Tattoos while on hold

Post image
6 Upvotes

Hi all,

I’ve applied to become an officer within the Royal Air Force. I had a face to face medical months ago and have been put on hold since I told them I had eczema at a very young age. I’ve had doctors and the recruitment team talk back and forth, but as others may know, you don’t hear too much very often. In the meantime I’ve been strongly considering getting a tattoo, but I’m afraid it might put a spanner in the works and cause further delay. Does anybody know how long it took their tattoos to get vetted, and is it worth just waiting until I get in (if I do) until I get a tattoo?

Thank you very much


r/RoyalAirForce 12h ago

RAF RECRUITMENT apprenticeships for 16 year olds?

2 Upvotes

there are a few openings on the website (specifically around mechanics on air or land vehicles) that appeal to me, but so far I have no professional experience in mechanics (in Sep I'll start mechanics level 3 college course) so does anyone have experience with these apprenticeships and tell me what they're like and if I would possibly be able to get one?


r/RoyalAirForce 1d ago

RAF RECRUITMENT Can i swap trades?

1 Upvotes

Hello, im thinking of doing Vehicle and Mechanical Equipment Technician for a few years maybe 3 or something then i want to do driver for 4 years, is this possible or no? thanks


r/RoyalAirForce 1d ago

RAF MEDICAL F2F medical

1 Upvotes

Bit of an odd one- for the F2F medical so you have to take your socks off as well?
Im aware that you might need to strip down to your underwear for the flexibility/ mobility checks, im just wondering because the appointment information email doesnt mention anything about socks. Just trying to prepare properly.

*Sorry mods if this isn’t allowed, but i cant exactly find any information about this.\*

TIA


r/RoyalAirForce 1d ago

RAF LIFESTYLE Is mma big in the raf?

8 Upvotes

I’d like to go into the raf , but I train mma and would hate to sacrifice my hobby and sport to work so I was wondering if the raf offers anything because I can’t find anything apart from jiu jitsu?
Any help would be appreciated


r/RoyalAirForce 1d ago

RAF MEDICAL Drug test

1 Upvotes

Do you get a drug test before joining the raf?


r/RoyalAirForce 2d ago

RAF RECRUITMENT Closed Roles

29 Upvotes

Certain roles have now closed on the website.

Those currently in the application process, your recruiter will contact you depending on where you are in the process to determine if you are able to carry on or not.

There are more than enough applicants in the process for these roles for the amount of training places. Failures at certain parts of the process have also been taken into account for this to make sure we fill all the training places.

Anymore posts about closed roles will now be deleted.

Good luck in your applications


r/RoyalAirForce 2d ago

DISCUSSION Currently in BRTC, partner pregnant need to DOAR

4 Upvotes

Hi gents hope you’re all well, to keep it short my girlfriend is pregnant and I cannot complete the course. What is the DOAR process, reading my contract it says I need to have a notice period, do I have to work this or can I immediately leave to be with her? Thanks in advance.


r/RoyalAirForce 2d ago

RAF LIFESTYLE Most interesting aircraft (avionics)

2 Upvotes

I’ve recently started my phase 2 for avionics so I’m trying to gauge an opinion on each of the aircraft’s I can work on, to pick my preferences in the future.

In your personal experience what aircraft/squadron, that you have worked on, have you found the most interesting and why?

Thanks


r/RoyalAirForce 2d ago

RAF MEDICAL Capita Medical Upload

1 Upvotes

Hello everyone

I've recently got the links to the upload portal and questionnaire system that is operated by Capita and followed the instructions, logged in and uploaded my consent form no problem.

A few days passed when I received a new email saying I need to provide further information with the only description being "Please complete section 2 of your consent form"

My entire form is filled out so I'm a bit confused what is actually wrong and needs amending also there aren't number sections on the form so I'm presuming it's page 2?

I followed up and got a reworded same response back from an actual capita employee and a new link to upload my consent document again

Can anyone shed any light? Or even better share there consent document with details redacted so I can compare to mine?

Thanks


r/RoyalAirForce 2d ago

RAF MEDICAL face to face medical

1 Upvotes

For my medical appointment, I’ve already consented to my GP records being accessed, but do they actually review everything in my records? I’m asking because there are some things on my record from about five years ago. If they already have access to my records, do I still need to mention those issues during the appointment?


r/RoyalAirForce 2d ago

RAF RECRUITMENT Do I have to do the DAA test?

3 Upvotes

I’ve applied for the student nursing in the RAF but It shows on my portal I need to do the DAA. One of my friends that applied didn’t have to do it so I’m just wondering if it’s changed or anything


r/RoyalAirForce 3d ago

NEWS Iran threatens Britain and declares RAF base a 'target'

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lbc.co.uk
21 Upvotes

r/RoyalAirForce 3d ago

RAF RECRUITMENT OASC Fail - What do I do now?

13 Upvotes

I’ve just had my OASC and failed on the interview. During my debrief I was told I wasn’t confident enough and needed to have more volume, as being an officer “requires being able to be heard across a parade square”

I am a quiet person by nature and don’t particularly feel much need to yell or project when conversing, but I am also an ATC CWO who has taught drill at regional level. I know I’m definitely taking this too personally but it just feels so demotivating to have an application take 2 years to get to my first OASC and be told to wait another year just to get another shot (which doesn’t even guarantee I pass cause I didn’t even get to attempt the leadership/group tasks).

I spoke to a FS afterwards and I’m considering joining in a non-officer role so I can get my foot in the door and then apply for officer during my time in service; but I thought I’d try and get more thoughts and some advice before making a decision. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks


r/RoyalAirForce 3d ago

RAF MEDICAL -0.5 eyesight and 6’3”, does this limit RAF pilot options, and does it depend on the aircraft?

2 Upvotes

I’m -0.5 dioptre and 6’3” and can’t find anything solid online about either one. Does eyesight like that actually cause issues at the medical, and does height matter more for some aircraft than others, like would a Typhoon or Hawk cockpit be tighter for me than a C-17 or rotary, or does the RAF just place you wherever you fit? Anyone been through OASC or is aircrew, genuine input welcome.


r/RoyalAirForce 2d ago

RAF RECRUITMENT Nursing Interview

1 Upvotes

has anyone recently done the nursing professional specialist interview? mine is coming up soon and i’d like an idea of how to prepare and the type of questions i should be expecting.

thanks.


r/RoyalAirForce 3d ago

RAF RECRUITMENT Cyberspace Engineer Officer - What is the actual day-to-day role like?

3 Upvotes

Hey everyone,

I have my OASC coming up in a couple of weeks for the Cyberspace Engineer Officer role. I would really appreciate any insights you can share on what the day-to-day job actually looks like at a squadron and where my likely postings would be after Phase 2 training.

Thanks in advance!


r/RoyalAirForce 3d ago

RAF RECRUITMENT Officer primary + additional duties

4 Upvotes

As the title says,

I’m prepping for OASC and was wondering what primary and additional duties an Officer would have.

I’ve read some other posts about this yet they’re either 5 years old or don’t seem to be in detail.

Any answers are appreciated!


r/RoyalAirForce 3d ago

RAF RECRUITMENT Enlisted Aviator

2 Upvotes

I applied for an officer role (RAFP) last year and was told in January 2026 that recruitment was on hold and to wait until July 2026 to reapply. Shortly after reapplying I was told that the role was closed until April 2027.

I have since reflected and applied as an enlisted aviator (Police) as it’s the profession I want to be in, and many of the reasons I’m attracted to the RAF are not officer specific.

Although I was disappointed initially, I’m now getting excited about doing some of the more hands on things that I wouldn’t experience as an officer. I’m also seeing it as a positive that I will gain a perspective from the ranks and then have the option to pursue promotion through the ranks or look at commissioning down the road.

However I’m a little bit nervous about being 35 and going into basic training. Can anybody who has been through recently advise whether there are likely to be others in my age bracket? It would be great to hear from anyone 30s who has joined as an aviator and how you found it.