(2) EMN, ETN, and MMN (E-5, E-6, E-7, E-8, or E-9)
BUPERSINST 1430.16H 21 Jan 2026
2-11 Enclosure (1) o. Competitive Groups. Active candidates in the following ratings are separated into the following competitive groups:
(1) CTI (E-5, E-6, E-7, or E-8)
(a) Group 1 - Middle East/North Africa
(b) Group 2 - East/Far East
(c) Group 3 - Latin/South America
(d) Group 4 - Eastern Europe
(2) EMN, ETN, and MMN (E-5, E-6, E-7, E-8, or E-9)
(a) Group 1 – Submarine
(b) Group 2 – Surface
(c) Group 3 - Training (E-5 only)
(3) Musician (MU) (E-7, E-8, or E-9)
(a) Group 1 - Premier Band
(b) Group 2 - Fleet Band
(4) Navy Counselor (NC) (E-8 or E-9 also TAR)
(a) Group 1 - Career Recruiter Force
(b) Group 2 – Fleet
204. Required Service Schools. Satisfactory completion of the following advanced schools is mandatory for participation in an exam for eligibility for E-7 and for E-8 or E-9 selection boards:
Rate School
AGC Aerographers Mate Class C-1 Course and hold the 7412 NEC
MUCS Unit Leader Course (ULC) (A-450-0012) or Advanced Musician Course (A-450- 0014); superseded course: Ceremonial Conductor/Drum Major (A-450-0016); or Waiver of “C” School requirement (A-450-0012) by NAVPERSCOM Navy Music Program (PERS-4014)
BUPERSINST 1430.16H 21 Jan 2026
2-12 Enclosure (1) Rate School
MUCM Advanced Musician Course (A-450-0014) or Waiver of “C” School requirement (A-450-0012) by NAVPERSCOM (PERS-4014)
205. Evaluation Completed in Appropriate Exam Administration Cycle. An in-rating evaluation must be completed within the inclusive computation period for the appropriate exam administration cycle. Refer to the applicable cycle NAVADMIN announcement or guidelines posted on the MyNavy HR Web site: https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/References/Messages/.
206. Medical or Disciplinary Status. Service members who are otherwise eligible for advancement to the pay grades of E-2, E-3, or E-4; participation in NWAEs or RKEs (E-5 through E-7); or eligible for E-8 and E-9 will not be disqualified by reason of special medical or disciplinary status. The following guidelines apply:
a. Hospitalized Personnel. Service members recommended and qualified for advancement or change in rating before hospitalization, if not the result of their own misconduct, may participate in an exam if deemed capable by the CO of the hospital.
b. Personnel Awaiting Medical Board Action. Service members undergoing treatment at a medical facility or awaiting action of a clinical board, medical survey board, or a physical evaluation or re-evaluation board may participate in an exam, provided the ongoing treatment or board action is not the result of member's own misconduct.
c. Personnel in Limited Duty (LIMDU) Status. Personnel in a LIMDU status may participate in an exam if otherwise qualified, provided the medical condition that necessitated placement in LIMDU status was not the result of member’s own misconduct.
d. Personnel in a Disciplinary Status. Personnel in a disciplinary status may, if recommended by the CO or OIC, participate in an exam provided all other qualifications are met.
e. Navy Reservists in Records Review Status. Reserve personnel in records review status are not eligible for participation in an exam while in that status, but may be advanced, if otherwise qualified, as a result of previous exam participation, provided transfer to records review was not due to member’s own misconduct.
f. Physical Readiness. Personnel must meet requirements of OPNAVINST 6110.1L Physical Readiness Program.
207. Commissioning Programs. Candidates selected for the Seaman to Admiral (STA-21) Program, Medical Enlisted Commissioning Program, Medical Service Corps In-service Procurement Program, and Judge Advocate General Corps In-service Procurement Program
BUPERSINST 1430.16H 21 Jan 2026
2-13 Enclosure (1) remain eligible for advancement consideration, regardless if in an exam rating in the BBA construct. Sailors in these programs will be required to submit an ETP via chain of command to OPNAV N13 for advancement determination. Selection to any other officer commissioning program renders candidates ineligible. Commands are required to request those candidates be invalidated by PERS-802 and NAVPERSCOM Enlisted Administrative Board Branch (PERS- 803). Per OPNAVINST 1220.1F, nuclear candidates will be assigned NEC N59X/N89X upon transfer of a nuclear propulsion plant operator to a non-nuclear billet at sea or ashore, or to duty under instruction including special college education programs. Therefore, nuclear candidates transferred to a STA-21 duty station will not be SBE. Limited duty officer (LDO)/chief warrant officer (CWO) will not be advanced unless reporting to the next higher eligible pay grade billet.
208. Selection Board Eligibility for Approved Transfer to Fleet Reserve (FLTRES) or Retired Reserve Requests
a. Voluntary Active Duty/Reserve Duty Transfer to the FLTRES (Retired List)/Retired Reserve (with or without pay)
(1) Members who have an approved voluntary FLTRES/retired request to NAVPERSCOM are not SBE. Voluntary FLTRES requests are those not mandated by HYT. Members remain SBE provided their HYT date for the present pay grade is on or after the first day of the exam administration cycle (1 July for E-8 and E-9 candidates and 1 September for E-7 candidates) unless superseded by most recent HYT or cycle NAVADMINs, MILPERSMAN 1160-120, or MILPERSMAN 1160-135. An approved voluntary FLTRES/retirement request must be successfully canceled or modified to an involuntary date prior to the board convening to render a candidate SBE.
(2) For SELRES E-6 personnel, eligibility for participation in an E-7 exam may be restored if the request or authority for transfer to the FLTRES/Retired Reserve is successfully canceled or modified to an involuntary date by proper authority prior to the administration of an E-7 exam.
b. Involuntary, Based on HYT, Active Duty/Reserve Duty Transfer to the FLTRES (Retired List)/Retired Reserve (with or without pay). Submissions based on HYT are involuntary. Active/Reserve members who have involuntarily submitted formal written requests for transfer to the FLTRES/Retired Reserve remain eligible for further advancement consideration.
(1) Personnel over the established HYT for their present pay grade on the first day of the exam administration cycle (1 July for E-8 and E-9 candidates and 1 September for E-7 candidates), unless superseded by most recent HYT or cycle NAVADMINs, MILPERSMAN 1160-120, or MILPERSMAN 1160-135, are ineligible for advancement and will not be considered by selection boards unless the member has received an HYT waiver which takes them beyond the first day of the exam administration cycle.
BUPERSINST 1430.16H 21 Jan 2026
2-14 Enclosure (1) (2) Personnel who submit involuntary requests to transfer to the FLTRES/Retired Reserve remain eligible for advancement if they meet all other advancement requirements.
209. Documentation of Eligibility Requirements
a. Satisfaction of Eligibility. Eligibility requirements must be met for both exam administration and selection board (as applicable).
b. Waiver of Eligibility Requirements Deadline. Waiver requests must be approved by OPNAV N13 prior to regularly scheduled exam for E-5 through E-7 candidates and prior to board convening for E-8 through E-9 candidates. Examinations taken without prior approval will be invalidated.
210. Special Instructions for Exam Administration While Personnel are in Formal Training
a. Class "A" School Instruction
(1) PACT personnel who have an approved “A” school request are not authorized to participate in an exam for any other rating.
(2) PACT personnel attending class "A" schools for ratings that do not require completion of “A” school, per MILPERSMAN 1306-618, who are TIR eligible and recommended for advancement, provided they have not classed-up, may compete for advancement in that rating via an exam. This does not apply to members attending class “A” schools that are mandatory for entry into that rating.
b. Class "A" School Rating Conversion
(1) Personnel under instruction for rating conversion on regular exam scheduled date are prohibited from taking any examination.
(2) If otherwise qualified, personnel approved for class “A” school for rating conversion may compete for advancement in their present rating until their class convening date; however, if selected for advancement, a request must be submitted to PERS-803 for authority to affect the advancement to the next pay grade in the new rating.
(3) Personnel who have enlisted/reenlisted in an accelerated advancement program (6-Year, Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL, etc.) with an associated or impending advancement to the next higher grade are prohibited from participating in an exam for that higher grade. This is to ensure that limited advancement quotas are not expended on those with guaranteed advancements.
BUPERSINST 1430.16H 21 Jan 2026
2-15 Enclosure (1) (4) Personnel who have reenlisted under the STAR Program for a class “C” school with an associated or impending automatic advancement to the next higher pay grade may participate in an exam for that higher pay grade while they wait to begin “C” school. However, if selected for advancement from an exam and paid for the next higher pay grade, the Sailor will not subsequently be automatically advanced to the next higher pay grade upon completion of “C” school.
c. Class "A" Schools with Lengthy Training. Personnel in the pay grades of E-1 through E-5 who are ordered to a class "A" school that incorporates a lengthy course of instruction must be converted in rating at an equal pay grade after successful completion of the basic or A-1 phase of that course of instruction. MILPERSMAN 1440-010 outlines the authorized exceptions to this policy and specify those points during training at which rating conversion may be affected. Upon actual conversion to the new rating, members may compete for advancement in the new rating provided they are otherwise eligible.
d. CTI-Pipeline Instruction. Personnel currently rated as CTI are authorized to participate in an exam while under instruction at the Defense Language Institute (DLI) or the Apprentice Cryptologic Language Analyst (ACLA) Course provided all other eligibility requirements are met. Personnel converting to CTI in the pay grades of E-4 and E-5 under instruction at the DLI or the ACLA Course are authorized to participate in an exam in their present rating. Personnel in the pay grade of E-6 who are converting to CTI are not authorized to test for E-7 in present current rating and may test for E-7 once rated as CTI and all other eligibility requirements are met. Candidates must possess a Top Secret clearance and must have completed all other advancement requirements.
211. Satisfactory Participation in the Navy Reserve
a. To participate in an exam administration cycle, a member must be assigned to a unit with a drilling requirement and maintain satisfactory drill participation as defined in BUPERSINST 1001.39.
b. All SELRES and recalled reservists are required to take a SELRES exam. However, authority is granted for these candidates to be administered exams with the command's active duty candidates. Refer to subparagraph 401j for SELRES late administration.
c. Members in the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR) assigned to a voluntary training unit, except those assigned because of HYT, are eligible for advancement. IRR active status pool (ASP) members are eligible for advancement while in a mobilized status if they do not exceed HYT. IRR-ASP members selected for advancement will maintain advancement, even if they are released from active duty prior to being paid for the selected pay grade. TIR and time in grade calculations will be from date the member would have advanced had they remained on active duty.
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2-16 Enclosure (1) 212. Service Requirements and TED
a. TED. TED is the date to which a candidate's service in pay grade (SIPG) is computed for advancement purposes. TED is not to be used to establish eligibility for automatic advancements. TEDs for each exam administration cycle are shown in table 2-5.
Examination Month/Eligibility
Advancement to
TED
February/March
E-5 and E-6
1 July of the same year
August/September
1 January of the next year
November
E-8 and E-9
1 October of the next year
January/February
E-7
1 January of the next year Table 2-5 TED Requirements b. TIR Date Assignments
(1) TIR requirements are shown in table 2-1. The TIR date is the date from which a candidate's total service in pay grade is considered to have commenced for the purpose of computing eligibility for the next higher pay grade for NWAE candidates or for tracking purposes within the BBA construct. TIR dates are assigned as shown in table 2-6.
(2) Calculate TIR by comparing TIR date for current pay grade to current date (or to an “as of” date).
c. TIR Date Assignment for Personnel Returning/Recalled to Active Duty or Drilling Reserve Status
(1) TIR Date for Navy Veterans (NAVET), IRR, and Career Intermission Program (CIP) Participants with a Break in Service. Break in service is applicable for NAVETs not under a Navy contract at time of re-entry to Navy service, Navy reservists attached to the IRR, or CIP participants. NAVETs returning to active duty or to drilling reserve status in the same pay grade held at discharge, release, or transfer to IRR after a break in service in excess of 24 hours will have an adjusted TIR. IRR/CIP time will not be included for TIR re-computation. Actual effective DOR for NAVET/IRR/CIP will be the date of reentry on active duty or re-affiliation to drilling reserve status. Compute adjusted TIR for NAVET/CIP on NAVPERS 1070/613 and ensure proper electronic service record entries are completed. Forward a copy of the NAVPERS 1070/613 to PERS-803. Figure 2-1 is a NAVPERS 1070/613 using a sample entry computation. TIR for IRR will be from date the member would have advanced had they remained on active service per paragraph 211.
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2-17 Enclosure (1) Pay Grade Advanced or Entry During the Period Assign TIR Date
E-1
Any period Date of entry in Navy (same as active duty service date
E-2 – E-3
1st - 16th of month 1st day of month in which advanced or enlisted/reenlisted on active duty or date of Reserve affiliation. (Refer to subparagraph 704a for effective date of advancement)
17th - end of month 1st day of month following month in which advanced or enlisted/reenlisted on active duty or date of reserve affiliation. (Refer to subparagraph 704a for effective date of advancement) E-4 – E-6 1 Jan - 30 Jun 1 January of current year 1 Jul - 31 Dec 1 July of current year E-7 1 Sep - 31 Aug 1 September of advancement cycle E-8 – E-9 1 Jul - 30 Jun 1 July of advancement cycle E-1 – E-9 Reduction in rate (RIR) Actual date of RIR Table 2-6 TIR Date Assignments
(2) TIR Date on Reporting to Active Duty from Drilling Navy Reserve Status in the Same Pay Grade Held as a Drilling Navy Reservist. Service member will retain the same TIR as held in the Drilling Navy Reserve if no break in service. If there is a break in service, forward a copy of the NAVPERS 1070/613 to PERS-803. Figure 2-1 is a NAVPERS 1070/613 using a sample entry computation.
(3) Other Service Veterans (OSVET) Entering Naval Service in the Same Pay Grade Held in Other Service. OSVETs entering the naval service in the same pay grade held in other Service will be credited TIR held in prior service. Compute and record adjusted TIR on NAVPERS 1070/613. Forward a copy of the NAVPERS 1070/613 to PERS-803. Figure 2-1 is a NAVPERS 1070/613 using a sample entry computation.
BUPERSINST 1430.16H 21 Jan 2026
2-18 Enclosure (1)
USS UNDERWAY (AOE 0)
01 MAR 26 NAVET/OSVET/IRR/CIP TIR re-computation per BUPERSINST 1430.16H.
Rate at last discharge/RELACDU/transfer to IRR: BM2 Rate upon reenlistment/reentry/re-affiliation: BM2
Date of last discharge/RELACDU/transfer to IRR: 24JAN12 Date of reenlistment/reentry/affiliation: 26FEB04 Date of advancement (FM DD-214/NAVPERS 1070/604): 22SEP16 Previous TIR date: 22JUL01
COMPUTATION:
Date of reenlistment/reentry/re-affiliation: 260204 Date after discharge/release/transfer to IRR: -240113 Broken service: 1200211
Previous TIR: 2207012 Broken Service: +1200211 Computed date of advancement (CDA): 240722
Adjust TIR to appropriate date per table 2-6 = 01JUL2024
T. A. SAILOR, LT, PERSOFF By direction of the Commanding Officer
(Compute adjusted TIR on NAVPERS 1070/613 and forward a copy to NAVPERSCOM (PERS-803.)
NAVY, HAZE GREY XXX-XX-6789 USN Figure 2-1 Sample NAVPERS 1070/613 Entry for NAVET/OSVET/IRR/CIP TIR Same Pay Grade Recomputation
(4) TIR Date for NAVETs/OSVETs Who Return in Lower Pay Grade Than Previously Held on Release from Active Duty, Drilling Reserve Status or Other Service. If reduction is administrative in nature, the member will be credited with TIR for service previously held in lower pay grade. Forward a copy of the NAVPERS 1070/613 to PERS-803. Figure 2-2 is a NAVPERS 1070/613 using a sample entry computation.
BUPERSINST 1430.16H 21 Jan 2026
2-19 Enclosure (1)
USS UNDERWAY (AOE 0)
01 NOV 25 NAVET/OSVET TIR recomputation for members reduced in rank for administrative purposes only per BUPERSINST 1430.16H.
Period of creditable service: 01 FEB 15 – 24 MAR 23 Made E-5: 16 FEB 18 TIR: 01 JAN 18 Made E-6: 16 AUG 21 TIR: 01 JUL 21 Enlisted USN E-5: 04 OCT 25
Re-computation: Previous E-6 TIR 210701 Previous E-5 TIR - 180101 030600 Adjusted TIR: Re-entry date 251024 Computed E-5 TIR - 030600 220424
Adjust TIR to appropriate date per table 2-6: 220101
T. A. SAILOR, LT PERSOFF By direction of the Commanding Officer
Compute adjusted TIR on NAVPERS 1070/613 and forward a copy to NAVPERSCOM (PERS-803)
NAVY, HAZE GREY XXX-XX-6789 USN
Figure 2-2 Sample NAVPERS 1070/613 Entry For NAVET/OSVET TIR Lower Pay Grade Recomputation
d. Special Situations
(1) TIR Date for Fleet Reserve or Retired/Temporary Disability Retirement List (TDRL) Members Recalled to Active Duty. Fleet Reserve or retired/TDRL members who return to active duty in the same pay grade held on date of transfer to the Fleet Reserve or retired/TDRL lists are assigned a TIR date per paragraph 212.
(2) TIR Date Adjustment for Lost Time. Lost time in excess of 15 days as a result of unauthorized absence, sick-misconduct, misconduct, or confinement is not creditable in computing SIPG. When cumulative lost time is in excess of 15 days in the same pay grade, adjust TIR date by adding the number of days lost. Send a letter to NAVPERSCOM Records Analysis Branch (PERS-312) with substantiating documentation to correct the TIR date in the EMF.
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2-20 Enclosure (1) (3) TIR for Prior Enlisted Personnel Disenrolled From Officer Candidate School (OCS). Enlisted personnel selected for OCS from the fleet who are subsequently disenrolled and returned to enlisted active duty status in the same pay grade held when removed from enlisted status will be assigned the same TIR date held before removal from enlisted status and will be assigned the effective date of return to enlisted status upon drop from OCS. Forward a copy of the NAVPERS 1070/613 to PERS-803 (see sample entry computation in figure 2-3 NAVPERS 1070/613).
USS UNDERWAY (AOE 0)
01 JUN 26 TIR re-computation for prior enlisted personnel disenrolled from OCS per BUPERSINST 1430.16H.
Advanced to YN3: 16 APR 25 TIR: 01 JAN 25
OCS Start Date: 20 NOV 25 Disenrolled date: 10 MAY 26
Return to enlisted status effective date: 20 MAY 26
New dates are as follows: Effective date of YN3 (date of return): 20 MAY 26 Corrected TIR date (date held previously): 01 JAN 25
T. A. SAILOR, LT PERSOFF By direction of the Commanding Officer
(Compute adjusted TIR on NAVPERS 1070/613 and forward a copy to NAVPERSCOM (PERS-803).)
NAVY, HAZE GREY XXX-XX-6789 USN Figure 2-3 Sample NAVPERS 1070/613 For Returning OCS TIR
(4) TIR Date for an Authorized Lateral Conversion. Members with an authorized lateral conversion will retain the TIR date assigned on advancement to current pay grade in the original rating.
(5) TIR Date for Members Who are Reduced in Rate. TIR date for members reduced in rate as the result of disciplinary action is the date of reduction.
Note: Service members are not required to complete advancement requirements for the next higher pay grade (except for TIR) unless the requirement has not been completed previously or there is a new mandatory requirement.
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2-21 Enclosure (1) (6) TIR Date Based on Legal or Administrative Action. Service members reduced in rate by their CO or OIC or higher authority as the result of disciplinary action are assigned a TIR date as follows:
(a) The Reduction is Set Aside or Mitigated. Date of rate and TIR is restored to original dates.
(b) Reinstatement to the Pay Grades of E-2, E-3, and E-4. COs and OICs have the authority to reinstate members to E-2, E-3, or E-4 after 6 months at their reduced pay grade without referral to higher authority. TIR is assigned per table 2-6 based on the date of reinstatement.
(c) Reduction is Suspended. A member placed in a suspended reduction status retains the original TIR date, unless the suspension is vacated.
(d) Restoration in Rate to E-5 and E-6. TIR date is assigned per table 2-6 based on the effective date of restoration.
Note: Refer to MILPERSMAN 1430-020 for restoration authority to the pay grades of E-5 and E-6.
(e) TIR Date for Service Members Reduced in Rate as the Result of Erroneous Advancement (e.g., incorrect information reported to Naval Education and Training Professional Development Center (NETPDC) on answer sheet). When a member is reduced in rate as the result of an erroneous advancement, the previous TIR date is reassigned.
(7) Waiver of TIR Requirements for Early Promote (EP) for Non-BBA and or Exempt Sailors. COs and OICs may waive up to 1 year of the required TIR for Sailors in the pay grades of E-5 and E-6 who received a promotion recommendation of EP on the most recent periodic evaluation in the current pay grade. Personnel authorized an EP TIR waiver under this paragraph must be identified as such when ordering exams per subparagraphs 400a and 400b and or by filling in “EP TIR WAIVER” on the answer sheet. “EP TIR Waiver (E-6 and E-7)” should also be selected in the “Special Circumstances” section when completing an enlisted advancement worksheet (EAW). EAW will have to be manually created. Failure to identify candidates who have been granted EP TIR waivers will result in invalidation of an exam due to insufficient TIR prior to publication of exam results. Letter extensions and “Not Observed” evaluations do not affect this waiver. E-6 Sailors who have been granted a TIR waiver and are SBE must ensure their most recent periodic evaluation with an EP is available to the selection board prior to the regularly scheduled board convened date.
(a) COs may authorize the EP TIR waiver for up to two consecutive exam cycles covered by the most recent periodic evaluation report. Each waiver must be provided via separate letter for each exam cycle.
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2-22 Enclosure (1) Note: A special evaluation may be used under circumstances requiring early annual reporting (e.g., hull swap) when the early annual reporting was specifically authorized by NAVPERSCOM Performance Evaluation Division (PERS-32) and the special evaluation falls within 3 months of when the periodic evaluation is due.
(b) An EP recommendation received on a special, detachment of individual (transfer), or detachment of reporting senior evaluation does not negate the ability to receive an EP waiver if the most recent observed period evaluation reflects a promotion recommendation of EP. However, a special detachment of individual (transfer), or detachment of reporting senior evaluation cannot be used to establish eligibility for a TIR waiver.
Note: In no case may the EP TIR waiver exceed two consecutive exam cycles from the date of the most recent periodic evaluation.
(c) A Sailor recommended for EP on the most recent periodic evaluation who later receives a special, transfer, or detachment of reporting senior evaluation before the next exam administration cycle with a promotion recommendation of other than EP is no longer eligible for this waiver.
(d) The end of the reporting period of the periodic evaluation on which the waiver is based must be before the month in which the regular exam is normally scheduled to be administered.
(e) EP TIR waiver is granted at the discretion of the CO or OIC and must not be considered automatic for every Sailor who could qualify.
213. Exam Participation for LDO Application Purposes. Per OPNAVINST 1420.1B, E-6 personnel who meet the eligibility requirements for the LDO Program and have completed all requirements for E-7, but do not meet the minimum E-7 TIR requirements, and plan on submitting an LDO application, are authorized to participate in an E-7 exam for LDO consideration. Personnel must have served as an E-6 for at least 1 year computed from their E-6 TIR date to 1 October of the year the LDO application is submitted. CO or OIC written approval is required to take an exam for LDO application purposes. Candidates participating in an E-7 exam for LDO purposes must be identified as such when ordering exams per subparagraphs 400a and 400b and or by filling in “LDO CANDIDATE” on the answer sheet. “LDO Candidate (E-7)” should also be selected in the “Special Circumstances” section when completing an EAW. The EAW will have to be manually created.
Example: YN2 Smith is a selectee for YN1 from the March 2025 exam administration cycle. YN2’s TIR for E-6 is on 1 July 2025. She will complete 1 year as an E-6 on 1 July 2026 and is eligible to participate in the January 2026 CPO administration cycle for LDO application purposes if she submits an LDO application for 1 October 2026.
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3-1 Enclosure (1) CHAPTER 3
NETPDC 1430/3 ADVANCEMENT IN RATE OR CHANGE OF RATING (WORKSHEET)
This chapter provides specific guidance for completing and verifying NETPDC 1430/3 Advancement in Rate or Change of Rating (Worksheet). An example of the worksheet is shown in figure 3-1. This chapter additionally provides instructions for clearing exam administration cycle corrections and discrepancies.
300. Purpose and Preparation of the NETPDC 1430/3 (Worksheet). The automated worksheet process within Navy Standard Integrated Personnel System (NSIPS) provides electronic enlisted advancement worksheets (EAW), leveraging authoritative data and creating an EAW more streamlined and accurate eligibility verification process. While the electronic EAW in NSIPS is the official worksheet, paper copies are available for download on the Navy Enlisted Advancement System (NEAS) Web site to assist the education services officer (ESO) in the electronic process. ESOs are responsible for completion and verification of the EAW for each candidate participating in an exam administration cycle (E-5 through E-7), including Limited Duty Officer (LDO) Program candidates. To do so, ESOs must establish an NSIPS EAW ESO account through the submission of an OPNAV 5239/14 System Access Authorization Request Navy (SAAR-N). As the NSIPS EAW is a role-based system, commands should ensure that at least one individual is assigned to the ESO and assistant ESO (AESO) user roles at all times. ESOs and candidates should also use the EAW as a check-off list. The EAW or EAW data sheet may be used for transferring information to NETPDC 1430/2 Navy-Wide Advancement Examination Answer Sheet during exam administration.
a. ESOs are required to accurately validate, complete, and finalize all NSIPS-generated EAWs, either to be eligible or ineligible in preparation for exam administration (see paragraph 601).
Note: ESOs are responsible for ensuring that each candidate’s worksheet is prepared and reviewed for accuracy prior to the member signing the worksheet. If an EAW was not created automatically, it is the responsibility of the ESO user roles to create one.
b. Each candidate participating in an exam administration cycle will have an ESO responsible for electronic EAW processing. Command reviewers can assist candidates with data verification and document upload once the EAW has been routed to the candidates. Candidates can review, verify, enter comments, and attach documents to the EAW, but candidates cannot edit the EAW.
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3-2 Enclosure (1) c. For active duty/Training and Administration of the Reserve (TAR), the EAW worksheet will “close” (lock) 1 week after the exam date. For SELRES candidates, the worksheet will “close” on the last day of the exam administration month. After the EAW “closes,” no more edits can be made to the worksheet. EAW routing from the ESO user roles to the candidate, then back to the ESO user roles, should be completed prior to the “close” dates. Any changes discovered after EAWs “close” will require submission via the NSIPS EAW post-examination administration comments (PAC) process to the Navy Education and Training Professional Development Center (NETPDC) records administrator role.
d. Eligible candidates are to sign the routed EAWs prior to taking a Navy-wide advancement examination (NWAE) or rating knowledge examination.
e. Candidates will be provided with an EAW or EAW Data Sheet during exam administration.
f. ESOs will hold any paper version of EAWs created in a suspense file for 2 years for each respective exam administration cycle.
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3-3 Enclosure (1)
Figure 3-1 Example NETPDC 1430/3 Advancement in Rate or Change of Rating (Worksheet)
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3-4 Enclosure (1)
Figure 3-1 Example Advancement in Rate or Change of Rating (Worksheet) (Cont’d)
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3-5 Enclosure (1) 301. Name (Section 1). Verify the candidate's name (last, first, and middle) on the electronic EAW.
302. Department of Defense Identification (DoD ID) Number (Section 2). Verify the candidate's 10-digit DoD ID number on the electronic EAW. The DoD ID is located on the back of the candidate’s common access card (CAC) and is also available on the NEAS Web site. Refer to appendix C for the NEAS uniform resource locator (URL).
303. Exam Rate (Section 3). Verify the three or four-digit examination rate on the electronic EAW for which the candidate is participating. Enter the service rating or examination specialty where applicable (e.g., ATI, NCC, etc.). (In all cases, the examination rate will be identical to the examination rate shown on the exam booklet.)
304. Exam Cycle (Section 4). Verify the three-digit exam cycle number on the electronic EAW is the appropriate exam cycle for the candidate to participate in.
305. Exam Serial Number (Section 5). On the electronic EAW, enter the seven-digit exam serial that appears in the upper right of the candidate's exam booklet. This field is not required for eligibility.
306. Special Circumstances (Section 6). If applicable, select only one of the following entries on the electronic EAW:
a. Limited Duty Officer (LDO) Candidate (E-7). This selection is used to identify E-7 LDO candidates only. If the candidate is time in rate (TIR) eligible and is participating for both LDO and board review, do not check this selection.
b. Personnel Exchange Program (PEP). This selection is used to identify PEP candidates currently assigned to or within 2 years after completion of a PEP tour. Provided an exam standard score of 50 or greater has been achieved, members are required to participate in only one exam during a PEP assignment. Refer to OPNAVINST 5700.7J and MILPERSMAN 1306- 921.
c. Early Promote (EP) TIR Waiver (E-6 and E-7). This selection is used to identify candidates in the pay grades of E-5 and E-6 who received a promotion recommendation of EP on their most recent periodic evaluation in their current pay grade. Commanding officers (CO) and officers in charge (OIC) may waive up to 1 year of the required TIR.
d. Exam Missed Due to Individual Augmentation (IA) (E-5 or E-6). This selection is used to identify IA candidates who are otherwise eligible in all respects to participate in an exam administration cycle and assigned in congressionally designated combat zones and approved contingency operation areas (CDCZ/ACOA) but are not able to take the exam and will participate in the next regularly scheduled exam upon return to their originating command.
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3-6 Enclosure (1) e. IA Waiver Granted (E-7). This selection is used to identify IA candidates for whom the exam requirement to participate in the E-7 exam for board review or LDO purposes is waived. The candidate, active duty, TAR, or SELRES, must be assigned to an authorized CDCZ/ACOA and be fully eligible by the provisions of this paragraph, even if a location has been certified as conducive to examination administration.
f. Billet-Based Advancement (BBA) Marketplace. This selection is used to identify E-5 and -E-6 candidates who are in a BBA Marketplace exam rate.
307. Awards (Section 7). Enter and or verify the total number of award points on the electronic EAW. Award points are entered as a two-digit number. Enter points only for awards approved or earned prior to the day of the regularly scheduled exam. Awards with only a month/year date are presumed to have an ending date on the last day of the respective month. Maximum award points authorized are 10 points for E-5 candidates and 12 points for E-6 candidates. Award point values are provided in table 3-1 but may be updated in the EAW guidance sheet. For purposes of crediting awards points, awards made by other Department of War (DOW) organizations are equivalent to those awarded by the U.S. Navy.
Note 1: Do not add education points in this section. NETPDC will obtain education points from the Joint Service Transcript (JST) and those additional points will be identified separately from award points.
Note 2: A 2-point increase for candidates awarded individual augmentee points are no longer factored into the E-5 and E-6 final multiple score (FMS) computation.
Note 3: Award points are not included in the FMS computation for E-7 candidates.
BUPERSINST 1430.16H 21 Jan 2026
3-7 Enclosure (1) Number Award Points/Awards Notes Medal of Honor 10 Navy Cross 5 Distinguished Service Medal or Cross 4 Silver Star Medal 4 Legion of Merit 4 Distinguished Flying Cross 4 Navy and Marine Corps Medal 3 Bronze Star Medal 3 Purple Heart 3 Defense Meritorious Service Medal 3 Meritorious Service Medal 3 Air Medal (Strike/Flight) 3 (max 1) (1) Joint Service Commendation Medal 3 Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal 3 Executive Letter of Commendation 2 (max 1) (1) Joint Service Achievement Medal 2 Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal 2 Combat Action Ribbon 2 Gold Life Saving Medal 2 Letter of Commendation (Flag/Senior Executive Service 1 (max 2) (1) Other Awards (2) Table 3-1 Award Point Values
Notes for Award Point Values Shown in Table 3-1
Note 1. A maximum of two points for letters of commendation signed by a flag, general, or senior executive service (SES) officer will be credited to the awards factor for E-5 and E-6 candidates only. A letter must be specifically identified as a letter of commendation and must describe significant noteworthy commendable accomplishments (beyond the usual requirements of duty) or exceptional displays of energy, judgement, or initiative. Command or unit awards (e.g., Battle “E,” Golden Helm Award, Robert S. Gray Award, NEY Awards, Golden Oak Leaf Award, etc.) subsequently issued as individual letters of commendation do not qualify for award point credit. A distinction must be made between personnel letters or certificates signed by a flag, general, or SES officer in recognition and appreciation for a task or project and a letter of commendation, which is distinctly awarded as a personal citation. Normally, printed certificates will not meet the criteria for award-point credits. Certificates should be titled “Letter of Commendation.” Executive Letter of Commendation awarded by the President, Vice President, Secretary of Defense, Secretary of any U.S. Military Service, or military heads of any U.S. Military Service (two points). Gold and Silver Wreath awards signed by flag officers are considered letters of commendation. A maximum of three points for an individual’s Air Medal will be credited to the awards factor for E-5 and E-6 candidates, regardless of the number of strikes.
Note 2. A comprehensive list of awards may be found on the cycle Guidance Sheet found within NSIPS EAW module.
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3-8 Enclosure (1) 308. Performance Mark Average (PMA) (E-5) or Reporting Senior’s Cumulative Average (RSCA) PMA (E-6 and E-7) (Section 8). Enter and or verify the three-digit PMA or RSCA PMA on the electronic EAW.
a. Computing the PMA and RSCA PMA. A PMA or RSCA PMA is required for each candidate, with the exception of E-8 and E-9 candidates and those E-7 PEP candidates who have already achieved an exam standard score of 50 or greater and have been identified as selection board eligible (SBE). E-7 PEP candidates who have participated in an exam but did not attain a standard score of 50 or greater must have an RSCA PMA for subsequent exam administration cycles until they achieve a standard score of 50 or greater. E-5 PEP candidates require a PMA and E-6 PEP candidates require an RSCA PMA for every exam administration cycle they are competing in.
(1) PMA for E-5 candidates is computed in EAW as follows: All applicable NAVPERS 1616/26 Evaluation Report & Counseling Record (E1-E6) (active/inactive) in the respective pay grade, including frocked, for the computation period announced in the respective cycle NAVADMIN will be electronically or manually entered in EAW. The evaluation values from block 45 (using below conversions) will be added together and divided by number of evaluations. PMA will be rounded to two decimal places.
(2) RSCA PMA for E-6 and E-7 candidates is computed in EAW as follows: All applicable NAVPERS 1616/26 (active/inactive) in the respective pay grade, including frocked, for the computation period announced in the respective cycle NAVADMIN will be electronically or manually entered in EAW. For each evaluation value from block 45 (using below conversion), within the PMA computation period, the RSCA value is subtracted from the individual trait average (ITA) value. If the difference is negative or 0.04 or less, no additional points are added to the evaluation value. If the difference is 0.05 or more above RSCA, additional RSCA calculation points (as indicated below) will be added to the evaluation value to get an RSCA evaluation value. Each of the RSCA evaluation values will be added together and divided by the number of evaluations to get the RSCA PMA (rounded to two decimal places). If the RSCA value is missing for any of the evaluations in the PMA of the exam administration cycle computation period, then RSCA PMA will be equal to 0.00 and will be considered a discrepancy until resolved by the command.
Note 1: Reporting seniors must incorporate their post summary group (PSG) RSCA score for E-5 and E-6 reports into evaluation block 43 as a required admin comment. In cases where the RSCA value documented in evaluation block 43 differs from the RSCA provided by NSIPS after an evaluation has been accepted and processed by Navy Personnel Command (NAVPERSCOM) Performance Evaluation Division (PERS-32), ESOs must use the NSIPS electronic service record (ESR) RSCA value when computing the RSCA PMA.
Note 2: RSCA for evaluations from previous commands or reporting seniors can be found in NSIPS in the performance section under the fitness report (FITREP)/evaluation link or at
BUPERSINST 1430.16H 21 Jan 2026
3-9 Enclosure (1) BUPERS Online (BOL) in the *ODC, OSR, PSR, ESR* section under the Evaluations Summary (1996 to present) link.
Note 3: For BBA rating knowledge exam (RKE) participation, E-5 and E-6 candidates are required to have an in-grade or frocked CO or OIC recommendation for advancement periodic evaluation.
BLOCK 45 CONVERSION
Early Promote Must Promote Promotable Progressing Significant Problems
= 4.0 = 3.8 = 3.6 = 3.4 = 2.0
RSCA CALCULATION POINTS
Points Above RSCA Additional RSCA Calculation Points 0.05 to 0.19 0.20 0.20 to 0.34 0.40 0.35 to 0.49 0.60 0.50 to 0.64 0.80 0.65 to 0.79 1.00 0.80 to 0.94 1.20 0.95 to 1.09 1.40 1.10 to 1.24 1.60 1.25 or greater 1.80
b. Regular Evaluations Not Available for Computing PMA and RSCA PMA. For NWAE candidates, prepare a special evaluation if a member’s ESR does not contain an evaluation report in the correct pay grade or with an ending date during the period specified in the current examination cycle NAVADMIN. For special evaluations prepared as the single evaluation for computing PMA or RSCA PMA or for special evaluations for students undergoing instructions who do not have a regular evaluation for the computation period, mark all trait blocks in which members can reasonably be evaluated, including block 45. For BBA RKE participation, special evaluations may not be used to establish initial eligibility or manipulate PMAs, but a special evaluation may be used to reestablish advancement eligibility previously withdrawn (see subparagraph 1303a). For new accession candidates who have graduated from “A” school and are eligible for the upcoming NWAE and do not have a current evaluation in pay grade, a one- time PMA or RSCA PMA of 3.60 will be selected in EAW. This PMA or RSCA PMA will be
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3-10 Enclosure (1) used solely for the current exam administration cycle and will not be utilized in future PMA or RSCA PMA computations. Do not include supplemental evaluations (evaluations covering the same period as evaluations previously submitted). If “not observed” evaluations or performance information memorandums (PIM) are the only available source for PMA or RSCA PMA computations, a special evaluation must be prepared. Exam participation is not authorized for personnel without a PMA or RSCA PMA. Special evaluations prepared for exam participation must have the following end dates:
(1) 31 December for the January examination
(2) 31 January for the SELRES February examination
(3) 28/29 February for the March examination
(4) 31 July for the SELRES August examination
(5) 31 August for the September examination
Note: It is the ESOs responsibility to ensure PMA and RSCA PMA computations are completed prior to the first day of the month of the exam administration cycle. If PMA or RSCA PMA is not established prior to this date and candidate does not meet paragraph 308 exceptions above, the member is not eligible to participate in the exam administration exam cycle. Exemption to policy (ETP) submission will be required to correct PMA or RSCA PMA established after the first day of the month of the exam.
c. Evaluations Not to be Used to Compute PMA and RSCA PMA
(1) Evaluations prepared on or after the first day of the month of regularly scheduled exam administration date,
(2) Evaluations with an ending date that does not fall within the computation period of the applicable exam administration cycle,
(3) Evaluations in a lower pay grade,
(4) Annual training/active duty training evaluations for Navy reservists,
(5) Evaluations prepared for the sole purpose of raising the PMA and RSCA PMA (where an evaluation is already available for computation),
BUPERSINST 1430.16H 21 Jan 2026
3-11 Enclosure (1) (6) Letter supplements submitted after the first day of the month in which an exam is scheduled to be administered (see BUPERSINST 1610.10H),
(7) Evaluation marked “Not Observed” for regular and Career Intermission Program (CIP) candidates, and
(8) Special evaluations for RKE participation may not be used to establish initial eligibility or manipulate PMAs.
Note: Concurrent reports are submitted to PERS-32 and made part of the Service member’s official record. However, these types of reports are not to be included in the PMA and RSCA PMA computation unless marked “INDIV AUG” in Block 21 or the regular reporting senior countersigned the evaluation and made the report a regular report (the day-to-day continuity must be considered prior to making the report a regular report). Refer to BUPERSINST 1610.10H, chapter 4, for concurrent reports procedures.
PMA Computation Note • SELRES evaluations may be used to compute PMA and RSCA PMA for active duty/TAR, provided they fall within the prescribed computation period for the applicable exam administration cycle. • Active duty/TAR evaluations may be used to compute PMA and RSCA PMA for SELRES, provided they fall within the prescribed computation period for the applicable exam administration cycle.
309. Exam Date (Section 9). If different than listed, enter the date the exam is administered (YYMMDD) on the electronic EAW. For active duty/TAR, the EAW worksheet will “close” (lock) 1 week after the exam date. For SELRES candidates, the worksheet will “close” on the last day of the exam administration month.
310. Exam Results Unit Identification Code (UIC) (Section 10). Verify the five-character UIC of the command to which the candidate is attached on the electronic EAW. For those candidates scheduled for transfer, the EAW must be transferred to the gaining command.
311. Time in Grade (TIG) (Section 11). Verify drilling reservist time in years and months (YYMM) on the electronic EAW. This section is used for all SELRES candidates when drilling reserve time is used for TIR credit and only by active duty candidates with drilling reservist time. Active duty TIR and SELRES TIG in same pay grade is combined.
312. Sections (A) Through (C) and Eligibility Computations, Signatures, and Member’s Eligibility Status
a. Time-in-Rate Computation Section (A). Verify computation of TIR. Refer to current guidance and each cycle NAVADMIN for specific TIR eligibility.
BUPERSINST 1430.16H 21 Jan 2026
3-12 Enclosure (1) b. Active Duty with Reserve Time-in-Rate Computation Section (B). Verify computation of drilling reservist time for Sailors in an active duty exam administration cycle.
c. High Year Tenure (HYT) Computation Section (C). Verify computation of HYT. Refer to current guidance and each cycle NAVADMIN for specific HYT eligibility.
d. Eligibility Check. Verify or update all eligibility checks on the EAW. See figure 3-1 and chapter 2 for eligibility checks.
e. Candidate and ESO Signature. Completion is required. Member and ESO must sign worksheet prior to taking an NWAE or RKE. Sailors in disconnected operations without connectivity to NSIPS Web site should wet-sign a hard copy for the ESO or AESO to upload.
f. Member’s Eligibility Status. ESOs should select the member’s eligibility status, click “Final ESO Verification of Eligibility,” complete, and finalize the EAW.
Note: Paragraphs 301 to 312 will also be followed when filling out the paper version of the worksheet.
313. Correcting Answer Sheet Errors
a. Errors Discovered Prior to Transmittal of Answer Sheet Returns. When errors are discovered in sections 1 through 11 on the NETPDC 1430/2 (Answer Sheet), it is the command ESO’s responsibility to ensure corrections are made prior to forwarding answer sheets to NETPDC Fleet Services Branch (N321). In some cases, the ESO will be able to directly correct the EAW data. However, changing some data fields may require changing data in an authoritative Navy personnel system that provides data to the EAW.
Note: If time allots and the authoritative data system has been updated, ESOs will use the EAW “Refresh” functionality to update the electronic EAW.
b. Errors Discovered After Answer Sheets are Forwarded. When errors are discovered after answer sheets are forwarded to NETPDC N321, correction requests must be submitted to the NETPDC Records Administrator via the NSIPS EAWmailto: PAC process. EAW PAC submissions must include CO or OIC letter of correction and all supporting documentation. See figure 3-2 for sample letter for corrections.
Note: Changes made in NEAS via NSIPS EAW PAC process will not correct the authoritative data source. ESOs must ensure members’ authoritative data source records are also corrected.
BUPERSINST 1430.16H 21 Jan 2026
3-13 Enclosure (1) c. Answer Sheets Received Without a PMA/RSCA PMA. The candidate’s exam record will be invalidated after publication if PMA or RSCA PMA is blank or contains 0.00 and is not corrected.
d. PMA/RSCA PMA Corrections. Corrections to the PMA/RSCA PMA because of errors in computation may be made using the following guidelines:
(1) RSCA and RSCA PMA requests must be submitted to NETPDC Records Administrator via the NSIPS EAW PAC process. EAW PAC submissions must include CO or OIC letter of correction and all supporting documentation including copies of all applicable evaluations or NSIPS performance evaluation reports containing evaluations in present pay grade, ensuring the entire computation period is covered. If evaluations are not available for the entire computation period, provide written justification for the missing periods per BUPERSINST 1610.10H. CO or OIC letter of correction and supporting documentation must contain member’s full name and DoD ID (see figure 3-2 for sample letter for corrections).
(2) For E-6 and E-7 candidates, a copy of the RSCA PMA calculator must also be submitted listing all applicable evaluations and RSCA calculations. A copy of RSCA PMA calculator Excel can be downloaded from the NEAS Web site.
(3) Special evaluations can be used to establish PMA and RSCA PMA in pay grade (for NWAE only). In no other circumstance can special evaluations be used for PMA and RSCA PMA computation, unless approved by NAVPERSCOM Enlisted Administrative Branch (PERS- 803).
e. Award Points Correction. Award point correction requests must be submitted to NETPDC Records Administrator via the NSIPS EAW PAC process. EAW PAC submissions must include CO or OIC letter of correction and all supporting documentation including official documentation proving all award points which are being used for the calculation. Official documentation includes a copy of NAVPERS 1070/604 Enlisted Qualification History, NAVPERS 1070/880 Awards Record, DD-214 Discharge from Active Duty, NAVPERS 1070/613 Administrative Remarks, award certificate(s), and award citation(s) which properly identify the individual concerned and indicate all awards (including previously reported awards). Always submit the flag letter of commendations (FLOC) citation to ensure the FLOC is to the individual and not a command, unit, or team. CO letter, CO or OIC letter of correction, and all supporting documentation must contain member’s full name and DoD ID. See figure 3-2 for sample letter for corrections.
BUPERSINST 1430.16H 21 Jan 2026
3-14 Enclosure (1) 314. Education Point Corrections. NETPDC will obtain education points from JST. Education point correction requests must be submitted to NETPDC Records Administrator via the NSIPS EAW PAC process. EAW PAC submissions must include CO or OIC letter of correction, all supporting documentation, and a copy of the transcript from JST indicating the degree type and date of completion. CO or OIC letter of correction and all supporting documentation must contain member’s full name and DoD ID. See figure 3-2 for sample letter for corrections.
Note: Highest degree level awarded may be populated on the EAW. The authoritative data source is JST. Figure 3-2 Sample Letter for Corrections
(Command Letterhead)
1430 Ser: Date From: Commanding Officer, (command name) To: Commanding Officer, NETPDC (N321)
SUBJ: SEPTEMBER 2025 (CYCLE 268)264 EXAMINATION CYCLE CORRECTIONS IN CASE OF ET2 GABRIEL A SEA XXXXXXXXXX
REF: (a) BUPERSINST 1430.16H
ENCL: (1) Periodic Evaluation 16MAR22 to 15MAR23 (2) Periodic Evaluation 16MAR23 to 15MAR24 (3) Transfer Evaluation 16MAR24 to 15FEB25 (4) Corrected RSCA PMA Calculator – ET2 SEA (5) NAVPERS 1070/880 (from awards section of ESR) (6) Copy of Navy Achievement Medal Citation dtd 30AUG25 (7) Flag Letter of Commendation Citation (8) Joint Service Transcript
1. ET2 Sea has incorrect reporting senior’s cumulative average (RSCA)-performance mark average (PMA), award, and education points on his profile sheet.
2. Per reference (a), enclosures (1)-(44) are forwarded to correct the member’s RSCA PMA to 4.00.
3. Per reference (a), enclosures (5)-(757) are forwarded to correct the member’s award points to 11.
4. Per reference (a), enclosure (8) is forwarded to correct the member’s education points to four.
5. Our command point of contact is PSC Taylor A. Sail, (850)123-4567, e-mail: taylor.a.sail.mil@us.navy.mil.
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3-15 Enclosure (1) 315. Early Identification of Candidates with Exam Cycle Discrepancies. To minimize discrepancies at the time of initial publication of exam administration results, NETPDC N321 will identify cycle record discrepancies on the NEAS Web site (refer to appendix C). The candidate's name, DoD ID, present rate, examination rate, and type of discrepancy will be included in the discrepancy report. Commands are highly encouraged to review their command discrepancy list once published. For a listing of exam discrepancies and corrective actions, refer to table 7-3. To clear discrepancies, commands must submit correction requests to NETPDC records administrator via the NSIPS EAW PAC process. EAW PAC submissions must include CO or OIC letter of correction and all supporting documentation. CO or OIC letter of correction and supporting documentation must contain member’s full name and DoD ID. See figure 3-2 for sample letter for corrections.
BUPERSINST 1430.16H 21 Jan 2026
4-1 Enclosure (1) CHAPTER 4
ORDERING NWAE AND RKE EXAMINATIONS
400. Methods to Order Navy-Wide Advancement Examinations (NWAE) and Rating Knowledge Examinations (RKE)
a. Internet Exam Ordering. The preferred method for ordering NWAEs and RKEs is via verification of the time in rate (TIR) eligibility listing at the Navy Enlisted Advancement System (NEAS) Web site (rError! Hyperlink reference not valid.efer to appendix C). Educational s ervices officers (ESO) may register for access on the Web site by selecting the “Apply for (Another) Fleet UIC Role.” For detailed NEAS and ESO exam ordering information, refer to the NEAS Web site homepage under “Resources.” ESOs verifying TIR lists should take the following actions as required:
(1) Eligible Candidates Not Listed. Commands must add candidates and appropriate NWAE or RKE to the TIR list. This includes billet-based advancement (BBA), limited duty officer (LDO), and early promote (EP) TIR waiver candidates who are not otherwise identified.
(2) Listed Candidates Who Are Not Eligible or Are No Longer Recommended For Advancement. Commands must scrub the TIR list to remove candidate exam orders.
(3) Candidates No Longer Attached to Command. Commands must remove the names from the TIR list or forward the NWAE or RKE to the appropriate command where the candidate will be tested (as applicable).
(4) Appropriate NWAE and RKE for Candidates. Commands must select the appropriate exam for rating conversions or separate competitive groups within ratings (e.g., NCC1/NCR1, ATI1/ATO1).
(5) Non-sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) Exam Orders Not Included on the Initial TIR List. Commands must order on the NEAS Web site using Department of Defense (DoD) identification (ID). These exams include early, supplemental, and substitute exams.
b. SCI E-mail Exam Ordering
(1) CTI/CTR/CWT SCI exam orders not included on initial TIR list, such as early, supplemental, and substitute exams, must be ordered via e-mail at: netpdc_cryptologic_products @us.navy.mil. Order exams in line with figure 4-1 (located on the NEAS Web site homepage under “Resources”).
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4-2 Enclosure (1) (2) Commands must include their Department of Defense activity address code (DoDAAC) account number, point of contact (POC), the number of exams required, present rate, full name, DoD ID, and reason. Commands requesting the forwarding of exams should include the forwarding command as an info addressee on the submission.
(3) Use NETPDC 1400/1 NEAS Address File Input when ordering; list exams in alphabetical order by rating using the format in figure 4-2. When using these methods, LDO and EP TIR waiver candidates are identified.
401. Timeline NWAE and RKEs
a. Ordering Advancement and Knowledge Exams. Ordering dates for early, initial TIR, supplemental, and substitute NWAE and RKE exam orders are published on the NEAS Web site.
Note: Deploying commands and commands with candidates departing to congressionally designated combat zones and approved contingency operations areas (CDCZ/ACOA) may order NWAEs and RKEs approximately 6 months early in order to receive exams prior to deployment.
b. Specific Instructions for Service Rating Exam Ordering. Refer to paragraph 203 when ordering exams for ratings with multiple examination identifications (e.g., ATI or ATO, NCC or NCR).
c. Commands Maintaining Electronic Service Records (ESR) for Other Activities. Commands maintaining ESRs for other activities will order and receive NWAEs and RKEs for those activities unless otherwise authorized by NETPDC Fleet Services Branch (N321).
d. Exams for Recalled Reservists. Exams for recalled reservists will be ordered by the command maintaining the Service member's ESR. Authority is granted to administer exams to Selected Reserves (SELRES) candidates on active duty concurrently with their Regular Navy counterparts. However, these SELRES candidates are still required to take Reserve Component (RC) exams and not Active Component (AC) exams.
e. Exams for LDO Candidates. Exams for LDO candidates will be ordered by the command maintaining the members’ ESR upon receipt of the commanding officer or officer in charge approved request.
f. Eligibility Requirements for Ordering Substitute NWAEs and RKEs for Administration for AC Personnel Only. Substitute exams may be ordered for AC Sailors eligible in all respects for participation in the E-5 through E-7 NWAEs and RKEs.
g. Ordering Substitute NWAEs and RKEs for Early and Late Administration
(1) Prior to deployment date (to include the indoctrination and training pipeline, but not including any personal leave), commands may submit substitute exam orders.
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4-3 Enclosure (1) (2) Non-SCI substitute exams are ordered via the NEAS Web site using DoD ID.
(3) SCI substitute exams are ordered using figure 4-1 (located on the NEAS Web site homepage under “Resources”).
Note: Answer sheets must be returned to NETPDC N321 by fastest traceable means. Commands will indicate in the subject line of the transmittal letter that the answer sheet is being submitted for a substitute NWAE or RKE. Do not combine AC and RC answer sheets. Use separate transmittal letters for each.
(4) Requests should be made only for those candidates who, through no fault of their own, are or were unable to participate on the regularly scheduled exam administration date. A command's inability to determine a candidate's exact date of return to the command should not prevent the ordering of a substitute examination. NETPDC N321 is the approval authority for all substitute exams. The substitute examination should be administered as soon as possible after the candidate's return. Following are examples of valid reasons:
(a) Emergency/emergent leave, as defined in MILPERSMAN 1050-130.
(b) Sick in quarters or hospitalization (clarified). A statement by a medical officer must verify that taking the regularly scheduled examination would have been harmful to the candidate's health.
(c) Operational commitments (clarified). The commitment must be of such a nature that a short delay in the administration of the regular examination series was not feasible.
(d) Administrative error (clarified)
(e) Convalescent leave, as defined per MILPERSMAN 1050-180
(f) Other (permanent change of station, etc.) (clarified)
Note: If unable to order and administer a regular or substitute NWAE or RKE, an exception to policy may be submitted (refer to paragraph 104).
h. SELRES Late Administration of Exams. SELRES do not have substitute exams. SELRES exams are not authorized for administration later than the date specified in cycle NAVADMIN. All SELRES late exam administration requests will be e-mailed to Navy Reserve Force ESOs at cnrfc_reserve_forces_eso@us.navy.mil; copy to ISIC ESO. Requests must include command name, UIC, number of Sailors affected, reason, and date of exam. The Navy Reserve Force ESOs will request authorization to administer late exams from NETPDC N321.
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4-4 Enclosure (1) i. ESOs must verify the NWAE and RKE order/status via NEAS Web site under "View Previous Exam Orders" within 7 to 10 days of placing NWAE and RKE orders. If discrepancies are noted, contact NETPDC N321 as needed for exam order inquiries and issues.
From: Command Name, UIC, DoDAAC To: SCI Coordinator, netpdc_cryptologic_products@us.navy.mil
Subj: REQUEST FOR (indicate EARLY or SUPPLEMENTAL or SUBSTITUTE ) SCI EXAMINATIONS CYCLE XXX FOR UNIT IDENTIFICATION CODE XXXXX AND DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE ACTIVITY ADDRESS CODE XXXXXX
Ref: (a) BUPERSINST 1430.16H
1. Per reference (a), the following CTI/CTR/CWT SCI examinations are required for administration: (Note: Only one cycle per request. Examination orders must be grouped into “Ship To” D oDAAC order and listed by exam rating order and pay grade order.)
Ship To: COMMAND NAME: USS COMMAND COMMAND UIC: 12345 DoDAAC: HKXXXX TOTAL EXAMS: 03
Exam Rating E-7 E-6 E-5 CTI 0 1 0 CTR 0 0 1 CWT 1 0 0
2. Examinations in paragraph 1 are for the following personnel with reason:
PRATE LNAME, FNAME MI DOD ID REASON CTI1 SAILOR, IAM A 1234567890 Deploying; must receive exams prior to DDMMYYYY CTR2 DOE, JOHN W 1122334455 Member has an approved EP TIR Waiver CWTC SMITH, JANE R 1987654321 Member not on initial TIR list
3. Command POC: PSC Able B. Sea, able.b.sea.mil@us.navy.mil, (123) 456-7890. Figure 4-1 Sample Format for Ordering CTI/CTR/CWT SCI Early, Supplemental, and Substitute Examinations
402. Address Maintenance. Use figure 4-2 to fill in NETPDC 1400/1 (located on the NEAS Web site: https://neas.ncdc.navy.mil/ under “Resources”) to notify NETPDC of a change of address or addition of newly established UICs. Complete the applicable sections of this form and submit to NETPDC N321 e-mail address: usn.pensacola.netpdc. mbx.netpdc-n321-exam- orders@us.navy.mil.
Note: All exam ordering UICs must be registered in NEAS.
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4-5 Enclosure (1)
mailto:Figure 4-2 NETPDC 1400/1 NEAS Address File Input Guidance
BUPERSINST 1430.16H 21 Jan 2026
5-1 Enclosure (1)
CHAPTER 5
HANDLING, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND STOWAGE OF NWAEs AND RKEs
500. General. Each command and activity is responsible for proper handling, accountability, and stowage of Navy-wide advancement examinations (NWAE) and rating knowledge examinations (RKE). To emphasize the importance of the required safeguards exercised in handling and administering NWAEs and RKEs, the following is extracted from U.S. Navy Regulations, chapter 11, article 1145:
Article 1145. Service Examinations
1. Persons in the Department of the Navy, without proper authority, shall not:
a. have in their possession, obtain, sell, publish, give, purchase, receive, or reproduce any examination paper, or any copy thereof, or answer sheet thereto, for any examination whatsoever which has been, is, or is to be, administered within the Department of the Navy.
b. attempt or offer to have in their possession, obtain, sell, publish, give, purchase, receive or reproduce any examination paper, or any part or copy thereof, or answer sheet thereto, for any examination whatsoever which has been, is, or is to be, administered within the Department of the Navy.
2. Prior to, during or after any examination which is to be, is being or has been administered within the Department of the Navy, persons in the Department of the Navy shall not, without proper authority, disclose, or solicit the disclosure of, any information regarding questions or answers to questions on such examinations.
3. Persons in the Department of the Navy shall not engage in any unauthorized form of giving or accepting assistance or self-help during the administration of any examination within the Department of the Navy.
501. Handling NWAE and RKEs. The integrity of Navy Enlisted Advancement System (NEAS) is dependent on the security of the NWAEs and RKEs and is of paramount importance to equitable advancement opportunity. All echelons of command must be alert to the possibility of compromise by the disclosure of the contents of NWAEs and RKEs. All commands and activities must initiate and monitor local custodial procedures to ensure maximum safeguarding and accountability of NWAEs and RKEs, as well as all related exam material at all times.
a. Custody of NWAEs and RKEs, Materials, and Answer Sheets. All NWAEs, RKEs, materials, and completed answer sheets must be in the custody of a commissioned officer, or designated E-7, E-8, or E-9, or designated civilian (GS-07 or senior) who holds the minimum clearance required to handle classified NWAEs and RKEs for the ratings assigned to their
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command(s) as identified in paragraph 103. At no time should E-6 and below handle exam materials. In designating civilian employees to handle and administer NWAEs and RKEs, give consideration to the employees’ possible affiliation with any Navy Reserve unit and the potential for their participation in a current or future exam administration cycle.
b. Custody Transfer of NWAEs and RKEs, Materials, and Answer Sheets. If an NWAE or RKE is transferred to another activity, it must be carried by one of the above persons with custody authorization or transmitted by U.S. registered mail or the current holder of the General Services Administration (GSA) contract for overnight delivery as available. Special handling instructions for particular NWAE and RKE series must have precedence over any conflicting handling instructions contained in this manual.
c. Security Clearance Requirements for Handling NWAEs and RKEs, Materials, and Answer Sheets. Military and civilian personnel designated to handle NWAEs and RKEs as outlined in subparagraphs 501a and 501b must possess a valid security clearance that meets or exceeds the security classification level of the NWAEs and RKEs being handled.
502. Accountability for NWAEs and RKEs
a. Receipt of NWAEs and RKEs, Materials, and Answer Sheets from Navy Education and Training Professional Development Center (NETPDC)
(1) Custody Transfer of NWAEs and RKEs, Materials, and Answer Sheets to Authorized Person. Upon receipt of NWAEs and RKEs from NETPDC Fleet Services Branch (N321), deliver the package(s) immediately to the person authorized to receive and maintain custody of NWAEs and RKEs. That person will immediately inspect the package(s) for evidence of tampering.
Note: Upon receipt of CTI/CTR/CWT SCI examinations, authorized personnel must sign and scan the enclosed inventory receipt and return it to NETPDC SCI Exam Development Branch (N333) within 5 working days via e-mail to netpdc_cryptologic_products@us.navy.mil.
(2) Receipt Inspection for NWAEs and RKEs, Materials, and Answer Sheets. Upon receipt and before administration of the exams, commands must inspect the packages for evidence of tampering. The number of exams included in the package must match the number listed on the Advancement and Knowledge Examination Packing List (see figure 5-1). Also, the examination serial numbers on the packing list and on the examination booklets must match. The preprinted endorsement on the last page of the receipt copy of the enclosed packing list must be signed and retained for 2 years. Do not send the signed packing list to NETPDC. All exams should be sealed in a clear plastic wrapper. Do not break the seal (plastic wrapping) on any NWAE or RKE.
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(3) Reporting Missing, Lost, or Compromised NWAE and RKEs, Materials, and Answer Sheets. Upon receipt and the day before administration, inspect all NWAE and RKE seals (plastic wrapping) for evidence of tampering. In the case of missing NWAEs and RKEs, evidence of tampering, or any other discrepancies, immediately submit a detailed e-mail or letter report to Navy Personnel Command (NAVPERSCOM) Enlisted Administrative Board Branch (PERS-803) with a copy to NETPDC N321.
(4) Stowing NWAE and RKE, Materials, and Answer Sheets. Stow NWAEs and RKEs unopened, along with materials and answer sheets, until used or transferred to another authorized activity. Only the individual candidate will open NWAEs and RKEs on the date of administration. See paragraph 503 for more information on stowage requirements for exams and related materials.
b. Receipt of NWAE and RKE, Materials, and Answer Sheets from Other Activities. NWAE, RKE, and associated materials and answer sheets may be transferred between activities for personnel transferred or departing on leave shortly before the regularly scheduled administration date or upon request from other activities for unused NWAEs and RKEs. NWAEs and RKEs with broken seals (plastic wrapping) must not be transferred. When NWAEs, RKEs, and associated materials and answer sheets are received from activities other than NETPDC N321, send a receipt to the forwarding command, as the NWAEs and RKEs remain charged to the original receiving activity. Receipt is acknowledged by an endorsement on the Transmittal for Forwarding Advancement and Knowledge Examinations (see figure 5-2 for forwarding advancement and knowledge examinations). Do not forward a copy of this transmittal letter to NETPDC N321 or PERS-803. Also, do not provide the immediate superior in command with copies of the letters, unless otherwise directed. Maintain a copy of the forwarding letter and return receipt in command and retain files for 2 years.
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Figure 5-1 Advancement and Knowledge Examination Packing List
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c. Regular NWAE and RKE Received After Regular Administration Date. Regular NWAEs and RKEs received after submission of the destruction report required by paragraph 612 must be destroyed and an additional destruction report completed (see figure 6-3). Maintain the destruction lists in command and retain files for 2 years.
d. Procedures for Transferring NWAE and RKE, Materials, and Answer Sheets
(1) Candidates Should Take the Regularly Scheduled NWAE and RKE. Candidates participating in an exam administration cycle should take NWAEs and RKEs on the regularly scheduled exam administration date (if possible). Personnel on leave and those in a transient status may take an NWAE or RKE at any Navy command. Commands transferring NWAEs and or RKEs for personnel in a transient or leave status must ensure the command to which they are forwarding the exam is staffed to administer the exams. Additionally, transfer custody of the NSIPS electronic EAW to the administering or gaining command. Prior liaison between the receiving and transferring commands is essential to ensure the member takes the regularly scheduled NWAE or RKE. Do not transfer NWAEs or RKEs to non-Navy activities/other Services without prior approval from PERS-803 (info NETPDC N321 on any e-mail request.
(2) Forwarding NWAE and RKE, Materials, and Answer Sheets for Transferred Personnel. If a candidate is scheduled to participate in an NWAE or RKE transfers or departs on leave prior to the regularly scheduled exam administration date, the transferring command must forward the candidate's exam, associated materials and answer sheet, along with the transfer custody of the Navy Standard Integrated Personnel System (NSIPS) electronic enlisted advancement worksheets, to the administering activity via the current holder of the GSA contract for overnight delivery. Take the following actions for personnel in a transfer or leave status:
(a) Ensure receiving commands are authorized to administer the exams.
(b) Inform the candidate(s) of the procedures, which include directing candidate(s) to notify the administering activity of where they can be contacted and of the location and time of the examination.
(c) Direct the candidate(s) to arrange their itinerary in order to report at the administering activity on or before the regularly scheduled exam administration date.
(d) Failure to report to the designated administering activity will normally disqualify the candidate(s) for the exam administration cycle. Unless extenuating circumstances prevail, the member(s) will not be eligible for a substitute exam.
(e) Advise candidate(s) they must bear the expense of travel to the designated administering activity; such expenses are not reimbursable.
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(f) Include a statement in the transmittal letter that each individual is eligible and recommended for NWAE or RKE participation. Candidate(s) should be instructed to contact the administering activity prior to the regularly scheduled exam administration date.
(g) Include in the transmittal letter for forwarding advancement and knowledge examinations (see figure 5-2) certification that the individual(s) have the required security clearance to participate in an NWAE or RKE.
(3) Listing NWAE and RKE Transferred and Ensuring Receipt. List all NWAEs and RKEs transferred to another activity by NWAE and RKE rate abbreviation and serial number in the transmittal letter for forwarding advancement and knowledge examinations (see figure 5-2). Responsibility for accountability rests with the original recipient; ensure receipt is acknowledged by an endorsement from the receiving activity (see figure 5-3 Letter of Endorsement for Receipt of Advancement and Knowledge Examinations).
(4) Requirements for NWAE and RKE, Materials, and Answer Sheets Mailing. Place the NWAE(s) and RKE(s), materials, answer sheets, and the transmittal letter in double envelopes.
(a) Inner Envelope. Permanently mark the inner envelope: “NAVY-WIDE ADVANCEMENT EXAMS AND RATING KNOWLEDGE EXAMS. DELIVER IMMEDIATELY TO A COMMISSIONED OFFICER. TO BE OPENED ONLY BY AN OFFICIAL WHO MEETS THE REQUIREMENTS OF BUPERSINST 1430.16H.” The inner envelope must also show the address and classification per DoDM-5200.01 Department of Defense (DoD) Information Security Program Instruction
(b) Outer Envelope. Address the sealed outer envelope in the normal manner and give no indication as to the contents of the package.
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(Command Letterhead) 1418 Ser Date FEDEX TRACKING # or other traceable means (Appropriate markings such as CONFIDENTIAL or SECRET- (Unclassified upon removal of enclosure (1) or CUI [if NWAEs and RKEs contain no classified information])
From: Commanding Officer, USS FREMONT (APA 44) (99999) To: Commanding Officer, USS HANSON (DD 832) (88888)
Subj: FORWARDING OF NAVY-WIDE ADVANCEMENT EXAMINATIONS AND OR RATING KNOWLEDGE EXAMS
Ref: (a) BUPERSINST 1430.16H
Encl: (1) NWAE and or RKE Booklet(s) (2) Answer Sheets (3) Exam Materials and Copy of Leave papers/permanent change of station (PCS) orders (when applicable)
1. Enclosures (1) through (3) are forwarded for the candidates listed below per reference (a). Candidate(s) indicated by an asterisk (*) have Navy Personnel Command (NAVPERSCOM) Enlisted Administration Board Branch (PERS- 803) authorization to compete for change in rating:
PRESENT EXAM EXAM SERIAL NAME DoD ID RATE RATE NUMBER
1. JONES MARY P XXXXXXXXXX BM2 BM1 2710101 2. *SEAMAN JOHN P XXXXXXXXXX LS3 LS2 2710745
2. The above-named personnel are eligible for participation in the Navy-wide advancement examinations (NWAE) and or rating knowledge examinations (RKE) to be administered on date and date . 1
3. Request receipt of the above NWAE(s) and or RKE(s) be acknowledged by completing the first endorsement below.
4. Command point of contact: PSC ABLE B. SEA, (850)123-4567, e-mail: able.b.sea.mil@us.navy.mil.
______________________________
(Signature of CO/OIC or official with by direction authority)
Figure 5-2 — Example Letter of Transmittal for Forwarding Advancement and Knowledge Examinations
1 In case of a person in a transient or leave status who will take an NWAE or RKE containing classified information, add the certification of the candidate's eligibility for access to classified information.
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(Command Letterhead) 1418 Ser Date
FIRST ENDORSEMENT on USS FREEMONT (APA 44) (99999) ltr 1418 Ser of _______
From: Commanding Officer, USS HANSON (DD 832) (88888) To: Commanding Officer, USS FREMONT (APA 44) (99999)
Subj: FORWARDING OF NAVY-WIDE ADVANCEMENT EXAMINATIONS AND OR RATING KNOWLEDGE EXAMS
1. Receipt of Navy-Wide Advancement Examinations (NWAE) and or Rating Knowledge Examinations (RKE) listed in paragraph 1 of the basic letter is acknowledged.
2. Command point of contact is PSC Jane. C. Dea, (850) 765-4321, e-mail: jane.c.dea.mil@us.navy.mil.
______________________________ (Signature of CO/OIC or official with by direction authority)
2
Figure 5-3 Example Letter of Endorsement for Receipt of Advancement and Knowledge Examinations
503. Stowage of NWAEs and RKEs and Related Materials. To preclude loss or misplacement, stow NWAEs and RKEs, materials, and answer sheets separately from other documents and publications. The border color on the cover identifies the classification of NWAEs and RKEs: SECRET – RED, CONFIDENTIAL – BLUE, and CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION (CUI) – no border. Both upon receipt and before administration, inspect all NWAE and RKE envelopes for evidence of tampering. Stow NWAEs and RKEs, materials, and answer sheets in an appropriate safe, vault, or other securely locked space fastened with a three- tumbler combination lock accessible only to an official who meets the requirements of paragraph 501.