I don't want to sound like one of those stubborn/arrogant people who haven't even entered OCS, let alone flight training and are talking about making it into the test pilot field one day. So forgive me if I come off that way. I was just re-directed to this forum again from the r/newtothenavy subreddit. They really admire you guys there. Some background: I am a dual American/Candian university senior studying in Ontario, Canada for my Bachelor of Engineering degree in Mechanical Engineering (3.8/4), accredited by CEAB (Canadian equivalent of ABET). I hope to do my MS in Mechanical Engineering at either Purdue or Georgia Tech (hopefully fully funded), and then apply to OCS. I can't stay in state, because my state of NY has ridiculous tuition costs for either Cornell or Columbia. I don't want to enter the Navy with over 80,000$ debt from an ivy league or private masters without funding.
I know about the NPS, and I know that a masters is highly desirable for TPS, and since I would apply for funding, it would be "free" for me anyways at a civilian university. So might as well pick it up before joining to get that stress off my back. Here are my questions, regarding Naval Test Pilot school and just generally thinking ahead about my future career ambitions:
I know about the NPS, and I know that a masters is highly desirable for TPS, and since I would apply for funding, it would be "free" for me anyways at a civilian university. So might as well pick it up before joining to get that stress off my back. Here are my questions, regarding Naval Test Pilot school and just generally thinking ahead about my future career ambitions:
- Which track tends to get the most seats in Test Pilot School? I care more about getting into Test Pilot School than the actual track which I would hope to fly
- I was told that, after finishing the FRS & ~3 yr fleet, then one can be up for TPS. Does that mean, that candidates realistically only have one chance to make it?
- Will a Canadian bachelors be grounds for denial? I had no trouble getting jobs in America, since ABET recognizes CEAB accredited degrees. I'm just not sure if it is the same for the military
- Generally, do you have any tips for someone who wants to go into the Navy with the goal of being a Test Pilot in mind? I know its a marathon and I should take one thing at a time. I just want to make sure that I make no mistakes which will negatively affect me in the future. Should I focus on getting a near 4.0 GPA for masters? being the best aviator I can? building a great relationship with my prospective chain of command? etc.
Last edited: