PFE

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USCGA2017hopeful

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Nov 11, 2012
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I am applying for the USCGA Class of 2017. I would like to submit my application for the EA II deadline on November 15th, but I have a fairly low PFE score. My score is below 200, but above the 165 minimum for completion of Swab summer. I will definitely be prepared and in athletic shape by R-Day, or even the spring.

Should I delay my application for solely a PFE score? Is there a way I can re-test later, or get a conditional appointment to re-test? How much weight is put on the PFE score?

I consider my application to be very strong in all other areas, especially ECs.
Thank you for your assistance.
 
I'm in the same exact boat. I messed up my foot and got a bit out of shape running-wise because of it. I'm taking the PFE officially tomorrow, but I know that my score is still below a 200. USCGA is my first choice, and the PFE is the weakest part of my application. I've been talking to people, and they said EA gives you the best chance of an appointment, so I'm not sure what I'm going to do. :frown: I've been emailing my admissions officer, and she said to call her tomorrow to discuss it more. So i'll pass on any advice she gives me. :smile:
 
I would recommend that you not delay submitting your application, as your PFE score is a relatively minor contributor to your overall candidate score. Completion will be fearce this year, as the class size is expected to be no more than about 240.

Start working now to shine this summer should you be offered a spot. Need help with push up and core routines? Ask some classmates on the wrestling, soccer or cross country teams. Check out Runners World or Running Times websites for routines and stretches for beginner runners. Don't ramp up mileage too soon. Consider joining the track team this winter for regular workouts.

Good Luck!
 
Thanks for the input. More responses are greatly appreciated.

What exactly is a conditional appointment given for?
 
The applicant handbook says "An offer of admission that is conditional on meeting some additional requirement(s) outlined in your appointment letter. These requirements include, but are not limited to, attaining your DoDMERB medical qualification, meeting Coast Guard accession height/weight standards, or improving your PFE score. By satisfying these final requirements by the stated deadlines, and otherwise remaining eligible, you will receive a full appointment." But it doesn't state how many are given out or how extreme the circumstances are. I got a 179 on my PFE today (did really well on everything, but the running killed me, as expected) and I'm talking to my admissions counselor tomorrow. From what I've been hearing, it's better to turn the application in for early action, but I still am a little anxious about hitting the "send button"!
 
alyswimmer said:
The applicant handbook says "An offer of admission that is conditional on meeting some additional requirement(s) outlined in your appointment letter. These requirements include, but are not limited to, attaining your DoDMERB medical qualification, meeting Coast Guard accession height/weight standards, or improving your PFE score. By satisfying these final requirements by the stated deadlines, and otherwise remaining eligible, you will receive a full appointment." But it doesn't state how many are given out or how extreme the circumstances are. I got a 179 on my PFE today (did really well on everything, but the running killed me, as expected) and I'm talking to my admissions counselor tomorrow. From what I've been hearing, it's better to turn the application in for early action, but I still am a little anxious about hitting the "send button"!
Click to expand...

From what I've read, 130 is the minimum to receive an appointment, but since the class is extremely competitive, this score is often elevated. Since your score is above the 165 minimum for a full appointment, I would say you are in a good position, especially if you can drastically raise your score on R-Day, if you are appointed.

I would go ahead and submit your application now. Especially with the explanation you provided on conditional appointments, it seems like the PFE is a very minor part of the application, and more of an important aspect for swab summer. We should be fine. Good luck!
 
Thanks! and Good luck to you to!!! :D
I'm quadruple-checking everything tomorrow and then turning it in...and so the waiting begins!!
 
alyswimmer said:
I got a 179 on my PFE today...
Click to expand...

USCGA2017hopeful said:
From what I've read, 130 is the minimum to receive an appointment, but since the class is extremely competitive, this score is often elevated. Since your score is above the 165 minimum for a full appointment...
Click to expand...

FYI - the average PFE for the incoming class last year was 215.

That's only a "C" on the scoring scale.

A 179 is a low "D". Well below average.

Every year cadets are disenrolled for failure to pass the PFE, and in some cases have been denied a commission or diploma late in their 1/c year.

With the "guaranteed" status of about ~60 CGAS, and the 15 LOA's given in the summer, there are only ~170 appointments still available, which should be enough incentive for any candidate to submit their best possible score and not "settle" for a below-average score due to the EA deadline(s).

Just sayin.
 
The statistics and metrics posted by Luigi are spot on. And while it might be advantageous to submit a better PFE score before the Regular Decision deadline of 2/1/2013, you're going to have to train smart to avoid injury. There is no secrete to improving your run -- mileage. Avoid the "terrible 2's" -- too much, too soon, too fast.

For those applying for admission to the class of 2017, it's probably too late to significantly improve your PFE. For those who will be applying to the class of 2018 and beyond, you have plenty of time to prepare to shine on the PFE. Suggestion for next years applicants -- join the cross country team at your school. My four years of cross country helped me post a score of 288. I've heard that the majority of the "Blue Stars" for "max club" PFE scores go to current or former cross country athletes.

Good Luck!
 
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