How much does civilian education influence a centralized promotion board's decision on where to place you on the OML?

2022-12-06T22:06:11-05:00

How much does civilian education influence a centralized promotion board's decision on where to place you on the OML?
Basically, I have the opportunity to get my graduate degree before my first look for a cost that TA will not cover, OR I could wait and get it for free after the promotion board convenes. I understand that other things are taken into consideration and are probably weighed more. I just want to know if they even really consider the civilian education component at all. One year's pay difference between E6 and E7 is about $6000 so the cost is justified if it is relevant.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2022 11:05 PM

2022-12-06T23:05:32-05:00

I'm sure there is some weight...but, to put it in perspective, I was picked up 1st look for SFC with 1 year and change of college. I was also selected 1st look and give. 2/9 OML for MSG with no additional schooling. If your MOS is very competitive, should take that into consideration

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2022 11:43 PM

2022-12-06T23:43:34-05:00

There is such a thing as being over qualified. I was annoyed to find out that my Masters Degree gave me no additional education points when I was an NCO.

It is my understanding attributes outside the left/right boundary will not nullify a required parameter for promotion. A PhD will not compensate for a Flag action.

That said......... One always benefits from more credentials, and you don't know when that personal development will pay off. It will make more of a difference if you put in for WO or a Commission, and even Civilian opportunities.

As well....... if it comes down to time/cost benefit then start pecking away at those items that will strengthen your SFC first look more than anything else. Education can't hurt, but can something else be more beneficial and less resource consuming.

EXAMPLE:
For SGT and SSG promotion, the GREATEST PAY OFF of an additional promotion point per effort expended to get that additional point is an EXTRA ROUND ON TARGET for weapons qualification.

Yes? What is the effort expended to hit the target ONE MORE TIME that gets the corresponding POINT and what is the amount of EDUCATION hoops one has to jump through to get the same point in education.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Dec 7 at 2022 10:34 AM

2022-12-07T10:34:53-05:00

Unless something had drastically changes academics can and will likely influence selection if all else is outstanding, but once selected it is TIG and TIS that influence the OML.

If there has been a change ignore this response.

Response by SFC Kelly Fuerhoff made Dec 7 at 2022 2:41 PM

2022-12-07T14:41:23-05:00

It could have a little bearing but it seems like now with the OML, they're looking at who is staying competitive as in taking on broadening assignments or military schools that further your MOS or your career. Senior leaders preach civilian education but I don't think some weight it as much as they claim.

I have a Bachelor's and two Masters degrees...but I've been low on the OML for my MOS...but I also am not really trying to do anything since I have like 19 months til I can retire and I'm not looking for a reason to stay longer than that. If I took on more competitive assignments and stayed longer than 20 I'd probably be higher.

I could have gotten promoted under the old system but I had to defer SLC 3 times because of my daughter's medical stuff.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Dec 8 at 2022 1:27 PM

2022-12-08T13:27:03-05:00

Look most will agree that any education is important, but no Master/Doctorate in the world is worth a damn to the Service if you are not/ can not be a creditable leader at the next higher level!