AFW2 Afi36 2502

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BY ORDER OF THE

SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE

AIR FORCE INSTRUCTION 36-2502

12 DECEMBER 2014

Incorporating Through Change 2,

14 OCTOBER 2016

Personnel

ENLISTED AIRMAN

PROMOTION/DEMOTION PROGRAMS

COMPLIANCE WITH THIS PUBLICATION IS MANDATORY

ACCESSIBILITY: Publications and forms are available on the e-Publishing website at

www.e-Publishing.af.mil for downloading or ordering

RELEASABILITY: There are no releasability restrictions on this publication

OPR: AF/A1P

Supersedes: AFI36-2503, 21 JULY 2004;

ANGI36-2502, 17 June 2010;

ANGI36-2503, 24 February

2010

Certified by: SAF/MR

(Mr. Daniel R. Sitterly)

Pages: 139

This instruction implements Air Force Policy Directive (AFPD) 36-25, Military Promotion and

Demotion. It provides guidance and procedures on promoting and demoting enlisted airmen. It

applies to Regular Air Force (RegAF), Air Force Reserve (AFR), and Air National Guard (ANG)

personnel. In collaboration with the Chief of Air Force Reserve (HQ USAF/RE) and the

Director of the Air National Guard (NGB/CF), the Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower,

Personnel, and Services (HQ USAF/A1) develops personnel policy for enlisted promotion and

demotion programs. This Air Force Instruction (AFI) may be supplemented at any level; all

supplements must be approved by the Human Resource Management Strategic Board (HSB)

prior to certification and approval. This publication requires the collection and or maintenance

of information protected by the Privacy Act of 1974 authorized by Title 10, United States Code

(U.S.C.), Section 8013 and Executive Order 9397 (SSN), as amended by Executive Order 13478.

The applicable Privacy Act System of Records Notices F036 AF PC C, Military Personnel

Records Systems, F036 AFPC J, Promotions Document/Records Tracking (PRODART) and

F036 AFPC K, Historical Airman Promotion Master Test File (MTF) are available at

http://privacy.defense.gov/notices/usaf/ apply. Refer to Attachment 1 for glossary. The

Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 affects this instruction. Process supplements that affect any

military personnel function as shown in Air Force Instruction (AFI) 33-360, Publications

2 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

Management Programs, with AF/A1P. Ensure that all records created as a result of processes

prescribed in this publication are maintained in accordance with Air Force Manual (AFMAN)

33-363, Management of Records, and disposed of in accordance with the Air Force Records

Disposition Schedule (RDS) located in the Air Force Records Information Management System

(AFRIMS). Refer recommended changes and questions about this publication to the Office of

Primary Responsibility (OPR) using the AF Form 847, Recommendation for Change of

Publication: route AF Form 847s from the field through AF/A1PP, Military Force Policy

Division, 1040 Air Force Pentagon, Washington, DC 20330 or AF/A1P

Workflow@pentagon.af.mil.

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

This change provides updates to program policies. It provides guidance and procedures on

promoting and demoting enlisted airmen. It applies to Active Duty (RegAF), Air Force Reserve

(AFR), and Air National Guard (ANG) personnel. In collaboration with the Chief of Air Force

Reserve (AF/RE) and the Director of the Air National Guard (NGB/CF), the Deputy Chief of

Staff for Manpower, Personnel, and Services (AF/A1) develops personnel policy for enlisted

promotion and demotion programs. This Air Force Instruction (AFI) may be supplemented at

any level; all supplements must be approved by the Human Resource Management Strategic

Board (HSB) prior to certification and approval. This publication requires the collection and or

maintenance of information protected by the Privacy Act of 1974 authorized by Title 10, United

States Code (U.S.C.), Section 8013 and Executive Order 9397 (SSN), as amended by Executive

Order 13478. The applicable Privacy Act System of Records Notices F036 AF PC C, Military

Personnel Records Systems, F036 AFPC J, Promotions Document/Records Tracking

(PRODART) and F036 AFPC K, Historical Airman Promotion Master Test File (MTF) are

available at http://privacy.defense.gov/notices/usaf/ apply. The authorities to waive wing/unit

level requirements in this publication are identified with a Tier (“T-0, T-1, T-2, T-3”) number

following the compliance statement. A margin bar (|) indicates newly revised material.

Chapter 1— ACTIVE DUTY AIRMAN PROMOTION PROGRAM ELEMENTS 10

1.1. Roles and Responsibilities. ..................................................................................... 10

1.2. Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC). ...................................................................... 10

1.3. MAJCOMs, FOAs, and DRUs................................................................................ 10

1.4. Military Personnel Section (MPS) .......................................................................... 10

1.5. Promotion Authority. .............................................................................................. 10

1.6. Announcement of Promotion Dates and Quotas. .................................................... 10

1.7. Establishing Dates of Rank (DOR) and Promotion Sequence Numbers (PSN). .... 11

1.8. Determining Promotion Ineligibility. ...................................................................... 11

1.9. Accepting Promotion .............................................................................................. 11

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 3

1.10. Promotion Ceremonies ........................................................................................... 12

1.11. Declining Promotion ............................................................................................... 12

1.12. Enlisted Professional Military Education (EPME) Requirements. ......................... 12

1.13. Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) Requirements. ............................... 12

1.14. Correcting Enlistment Grades. ................................................................................ 12

1.15. Correcting Promotion Effective Dates and Dates of Rank ..................................... 12

Table 1.1. Determining Ineligibility For Promotion (see Note 1). ........................................... 13

Table 1.2. Withholding Promotion (see paragraph 4). ............................................................. 17

Table 1.3. Significant Dates of Promotion ............................................................................... 19

Chapter 2— REGULAR AIR FORCE AIRMAN PROMOTIONS TO GRADES AMN

THROUGH CMSGT 21

2.1. Airman and A1C Promotions (see Table 1. 3) ........................................................ 21

2.2. SrA Promotions (see Table 1.3): ............................................................................. 21

2.3. SrA Below-The-Zone (BTZ) Promotion Program: ................................................. 21

2.4. Central Base Board (CBB) Process. ....................................................................... 23

2.5. Supplemental BTZ Consideration. .......................................................................... 25

2.6. SSgt, TSgt, and MSgt Promotions (see Table 1. ..................................................... 25

2.7. MSgt Promotions: ................................................................................................... 27

2.8. SMSgt and CMSgt Promotions (see Table 1.3) ...................................................... 30

2.9. Supplemental Promotions for SSgt Through CMSgt. ............................................. 32

2.10. Promoting Under Stripes for Exceptional Performers (STEP). .............................. 34

Table 2.1. Minimum Eligibility Requirements for Promotion (See Note 1). .......................... 35

Table 2.2. Calculating Points and Factors for Promotion to SSgt and TSgt. ........................... 38

Table 2.3. PAFSC Skill Level Waivers to Compete for Promotion (See Note 1). .................. 40

Table 2.4. SKT Exemptions (See Note 1 and Paragraph 2.6.1.5.) ........................................... 41

Table 2.5. Authorized Reasons to Request Senior NCO Supplemental Promotion Board

Consideration (See Note 1) ...................................................................................... 42

Table 2.6. SrA Below the Zone Processing Months and Board Dates .................................... 43

Table 2.7. Calculating Weighted Points and Promotion Factors for Promotion to MSgt. ....... 44

4 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

Table 2.8. Calculating Weighted Points and Promotion Factors for Promotion to SMSgt

and CMSgt. .............................................................................................................. 45

Chapter 3— *REGULAR AIR FORCE SENIOR NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER

EVALUATION /SUPPLEMENTAL BOARD PROCEDURES 48

3.1. General. ................................................................................................................... 48

3.2. Responsibilities. ...................................................................................................... 48

3.3. Board Membership. ................................................................................................ 48

3.4. Board Organization ................................................................................................. 48

3.5. Board Member Preparation. .................................................................................... 48

3.6. Scoring Records. ..................................................................................................... 48

Figure 3.1. Scoring Scale. Boards will use the following scale ................................................ 49

3.7. Defining "Splits". .................................................................................................... 49

3.8. Resolving "Splits". .................................................................................................. 49

3.9. New Documents. ..................................................................................................... 49

3.10. Not Fully Qualified (NFQ) for Promotion. ............................................................. 49

3.11. BP Quality Review. ................................................................................................ 50

3.12. Board Report ........................................................................................................... 50

3.13. Outbrief Board Members. ....................................................................................... 51

3.14. Board Anomalies. ................................................................................................... 51

3.15. Supplemental Boards. ............................................................................................. 51

Figure 3.2. SNCO Supplemental Decision Tree ....................................................................... 52

3.16. Disclosure of Board Proceedings. ........................................................................... 52

3.17. Summary. ................................................................................................................ 52

Chapter 4— *REGULAR AIR FORCE AIRMAN PROMOTION ACTIONS 54

4.1. Officer Training Candidates. .................................................................................. 54

4.2. Nonrecommending, Deferring, and Withholding Promotions. ............................... 55

4.3. Promotion Reinstatement. ....................................................................................... 57

4.4. Applying for Correction of Records. ...................................................................... 58

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 5

Chapter 5— THE USAF BAND ENLISTED PROMOTION AND PROPRIETY REVIEW

PROCESS 59

5.1. Premier Band. ......................................................................................................... 59

5.2. Background. ............................................................................................................ 59

5.3. Promotion Authority. .............................................................................................. 59

5.4. Promotion Objective. .............................................................................................. 59

5.5. The USAF Band Promotion Cycle. ........................................................................ 59

5.6. Promotion Quotas. .................................................................................................. 59

5.7. Eligibility Requirements. ........................................................................................ 60

5.8. Deferring, Withholding and NonRecommending Promotions................................ 60

5.9. Data Collection and Verification. ........................................................................... 60

5.10. The Promotion Board .............................................................................................. 60

5.11. Determining Selects, Promotion Sequence Numbers and Establishing Dates of

Rank. ........................................................................................................................ 60

5.12. Selection List. ......................................................................................................... 61

5.13. Supplemental Promotions. ...................................................................................... 61

5.14. Promotion Propriety Review................................................................................... 61

Table 5.1. Minimum Eligibility Requirements for The USAF Band Promotion ..................... 63

Table 5.2. Determining Ineligibility for PFE/USAFSE Testing .............................................. 63

Chapter 6— ADMINISTRATIVE DEMOTION OF ACTIVE DUTY AIRMEN 64

6.1. Demotions. .............................................................................................................. 64

6.2. Who Can Demote. ................................................................................................... 64

6.3. Reasons to Demote. ................................................................................................ 65

6.4. How to Process a Demotion. ................................................................................... 66

6.5. How to Process an Appeal. ..................................................................................... 67

6.6. How to Apply for Retirement. ................................................................................ 67

6.7. Grades to Demote Airmen. ..................................................................................... 68

6.8. How to Determine the DOR. .................................................................................. 68

6.9. When to Announce and Revoke Demotions. .......................................................... 68

6 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

6.10. How to Publish Demotion Orders. .......................................................................... 69

6.11. The Demotion Authority: ........................................................................................ 69

6.12. Documenting Demotion Actions. ........................................................................... 69

6.13. Dual Status Airmen. ................................................................................................ 70

Chapter 7— TOTAL FORCE SPECIAL PROMOTION PROGRAMS 71

7.1. Promoting RegAF Airmen in Missing Status ......................................................... 71

7.2. Promoting RegAF Medal of Honor Recipients....................................................... 71

7.3. Promoting RegAF Prior-Service Airmen and Former Officers .............................. 71

7.4. Promoting RegAF Airmen During Declared National Emergency or War ............ 71

7.5. RegAF Wounded Warrior (AFW2) Program.......................................................... 72

7.6. RegAF, USAF Reserve and Air National Guard Posthumous Promotions. ........... 73

7.7. USAF Reserve and Air National Guard Missing in Action (MIA) Promotion

during War or National Emergencies. ..................................................................... 74

7.8. Promoting USAF Reserve and Air National Guard Medal of Honor Recipients. .. 75

7.9. USAF Reserve and Air National Guard Wounded Warrior (AFW2) Program ...... 75

Chapter 8— *USAF RESERVE AIRMEN PROGRAM ELEMENTS (ONLY APPLIES TO

AFR NOT EAD) 76

8.1. Program Objectives. ................................................................................................ 76

8.2. Responsibilities. ...................................................................................................... 76

8.3. Eligibility Requirements. ........................................................................................ 76

8.4. Ineligibility for Promotion. ..................................................................................... 76

8.5. Unit Vacancy Promotion......................................................................................... 77

8.6. Air Force Reserve Stripes for Exceptional Performers I (STEP I). ........................ 77

8.7. Processing Vacancy and STEP I Promotions. ........................................................ 78

8.8. Title 10, U.S.C. Section 12310, Active Guard and Reserve (AGRs). .................... 80

8.9. Air Force Reserve Stripes for Exceptional Performers II (STEP II). ..................... 81

8.10. Airmen mobilized under Title 10, U. ...................................................................... 82

8.11. Reserve Service Commitment................................................................................. 82

8.12. Publishing Promotion Orders. ................................................................................. 82

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 7

8.13. Missing Data. .......................................................................................................... 83

8.14. Revoking Promotions. ............................................................................................ 83

Table 8.1. USAFR Promotion Authorities. .............................................................................. 83

Table 8.2. Promotion Eligibility (Notes 1, 2, 3, 10). ............................................................... 84

Chapter 9— *USAF RESERVE AIRMEN DEMOTIONS (ONLY APPLIES TO AFR NOT

EAD) 88

9.1. Demotion. ............................................................................................................... 88

9.2. Demotion Authority. ............................................................................................... 88

9.3. Reasons for Voluntary Demotion. .......................................................................... 89

9.4. Reasons for Involuntary Demotion. ........................................................................ 89

9.5. Who Notifies the Airman of Demotion Action. ...................................................... 91

9.6. Processing Demotions. ............................................................................................ 91

9.7. How to Appeal ........................................................................................................ 92

9.8. How to Apply for Retirement. ................................................................................ 93

9.9. Determining Date of Rank (DOR). ......................................................................... 93

9.10. Grades to Demote Airmen. ..................................................................................... 94

9.11. Announcing and Revoking Demotions. .................................................................. 94

9.12. Documenting Demotion Actions. ........................................................................... 94

Chapter 10— AIR NATIONAL GUARD (ANG) PROMOTION PROGRAM 95

10.1. General Promotion Information and Eligibility Criteria ......................................... 95

Table 10.1. Eligibility Criteria for ANG Enlisted Promotions. ................................................. 99

10.2. ANG Promotion Ineligibility Factors. .................................................................... 101

Table 10.2. ANG Promotion Ineligibility Factors. .................................................................... 101

10.3. ANG Position Vacancy ........................................................................................... 103

10.4. Mandatory Promotion Requirements for promotion to Amn, A1C and SrA while

attending a lengthy Technical Training School (TTS). ............................................ 104

10.5. ANG Stripes for Exceptional Performers Promotions Program (TSgt – MSgt) ..... 104

10.6. Process. ................................................................................................................... 105

Table 10.3. Supplemental Mandatory Requirements for ANG STEP I Promotions .................. 105

8 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

10.7. Officer Training Promotion Program (OTPP). ....................................................... 106

10.8. Retraining Promotion Program (RPP). ................................................................... 106

10.9. RPP Due to Unit Conversion. ................................................................................. 107

10.10. ANG Stripes for Exceptional Performers Promotion Program (SMSgt - CMSgt)

[STEP II]. ................................................................................................................. 108

Figure 10.1. ANG STEP II Authorizations Based on Allocations .............................................. 108

10.11. Process: ................................................................................................................... 109

10.12. Administrative Procedures. ..................................................................................... 110

10.13. Orders...................................................................................................................... 110

Figure 10.2. Promotion Order Examples..................................................................................... 110

10.14. Ceremonies ............................................................................................................. 111

10.15. Revocation .............................................................................................................. 111

Figure 10.3. Revocation Orders. The revocation order will be composed as follows ................. 111

Chapter 11— AIR NATIONAL GUARD ENLISTED DEMOTIONS 112

11.1. General. ................................................................................................................... 112

Table 11.1. Commander’s Action Upon Receipt of Airman’s Reply ........................................ 117

Table 11.2. Grades to Which Airmen May be Demoted............................................................ 118

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 9

Attachment 1— GLOSSARY OF REFERENCES AND SUPPORTING INFORMATION 120

Attachment 2— STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING – PREMIER BAND 126

Attachment 3— ENLISTED PME ATTENDANCE WAIVER FOR PROMOTION 127

Attachment 4— ANG – INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPUTING PROMOTIONS TO TSGT

THROUGH CMSGT 128

Attachment 5— ANG - STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING--RETRAINING

PROMOTION PROGRAM 129

Attachment 6— ANG – STRIPES FOR EXCEPTIONAL PERFORMERS (SMSGT –

CMSGT) [STEP II] 130

Attachment 7— ANG – SAMPLE BIOGRAPHY 131

Attachment 8— ANG - STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING – STRIPES FOR

EXPCEPTION PERFORMERS (STEP II) 132

Attachment 9— ANG – PROMOTION CHECKLIST--LENGTHY TECHNICAL

TRAINING SCHOOL 133

Attachment 10— ANG – NOTIFICATION AND DATE OF RANK ADJUSTMENT

REQUIREMENTS 135

Attachment 11— ANG – NOTIFICATION MEMORANDUM – DEMOTION ACTION

WITHOUT PREJUDICE 136

Attachment 12— ANG – NOTIFICATION MEMORANDUM – DEMOTION ACTION

WITH PREJUDICE 137

Attachment 13— AFR – NOTIFICATION MEMORANDUM -- DEMOTION ACTION

WITHOUT PREJUDICE 138

Attachment 14— AFR - NOTIFICATION MEMORANDUM -- DEMOTION ACTION

WITH PREJUDICE 139

10 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

Chapter 1

ACTIVE DUTY AIRMAN PROMOTION PROGRAM ELEMENTS

1.1. Roles and Responsibilities.

1.1.1. US Air Force Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower, Personnel, and Services

(AF/A1).

1.1.1.1. Develops personnel policy and guidelines for implementation/administration of

enlisted promotions/demotions.

1.1.2. Gives direction to Air Force Personnel Center Commander (AFPC/CC) for

implementation of enlisted promotion policy.

1.2. Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC). Enlisted Promotion Branch (DPSOE) provides

guidance to major commands (MAJCOM), field operating agencies (FOA), direct reporting units

(DRU), and military personnel sections (MPS). Promotion selections are accomplished by using

the Weighted Airman Promotion System (WAPS) promotion file computer system for grades

SSgt through CMSgt. (T-0)

1.3. MAJCOMs, FOAs, and DRUs . MAJCOMs, FOAs, and DRUs may establish a quality

control program to support the enlisted promotion system. (T-0)

1.4. Military Personnel Section(MPS) .

1.4.1. Ensures all Airmen meet eligibility requirements and commander recommends

promotion in writing. (T-3)

1.4.2. Updates and monitors promotion data in the Military Personnel Data System

(MilPDS). (T-3)

1.4.3. Ensures individuals receive promotion products, and assists with eligibility

requirements and commander recommendations. (T-3)

1.5. Promotion Authority.

1.5.1. The unit commander or civilian serving as unit director, in accordance with AFI 51-

604, Appointment to and Assumption of Command, promotes to grades Amn through MSgt.

Civilians in the grades of GS-09 or above, CMSgt, and SMSgt have promotion authority

when serving as detachment chiefs or as academy commandants. Deployed commanders do

not exercise promotion authority.

1.5.2. The MAJCOM, FOA, or DRU commander promotes to grades SMSgt and CMSgt.

This authority may be delegated to the vice commander, staff director, Deputy Chief of Staff

for Manpower, Personnel and Services, Numbered Air Force (NAF), or equivalent level

commander, but may not be further delegated. For unified commands, authority may be

delegated to the Air Force Element commander.

1.5.3. The Chief of Staff, CSAF, can promote any enlisted member to the next higher grade.

1.6. Announcement of Promotion Dates and Quotas. AFPC/DPSOE announces promotion

dates for SSgt through CMSgt. HQ USAF distributes promotion quotas based on fiscal and

statutory constraints, and projected vacancies in those grades. (T-0)

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 11

1.7. Establishing Dates of Rank (DOR) and Promotion Sequence Numbers (PSN).

1.7.1. AFI 36-2604, Service Dates and Dates of Rank, establishes DOR for Airmen entering

active duty. Subsequent promotions determine future DOR unless other actions take

precedence.

1.7.2. AFPC/DPSOE assigns a PSN to Airmen selected for promotion to SSgt through

CMSgt based on DOR, Total Active Federal Military Service Date (TAFMSD) and date of

birth (DOB). Supplemental selects are assigned PSNs of .9 (on increments previously

announced) or .5 (unannounced future increment). (T-0)

1.8. Determining Promotion Ineligibility. When individuals are rendered ineligible for

promotion, they cannot test, cannot be considered if already tested, and projected promotion will

be canceled. This includes selections under WAPS and fully qualified Amn - SrA. See Table

1.1 for ineligibility reasons.

1.9. Accepting Promotion . Airmen who accept a promotion are eligible for reassignment and

selective retraining in the projected grade.

1.9.1. Selects to the grade of MSgt and SMSgt with more than 18 years total active federal

military service (TAFMS) by effective date of promotion will sign an AF Form 63, Active

Duty Service Commitment (ADSC) Acknowledgement Statement or Statement of

Understanding within 10 duty days after selections are confirmed. In addition, all CMSgt

selects, regardless of TAFMS, will sign an AF Form 63 or Statement of Understanding

within 10 duty days after selections are confirmed. (NOTE: This does not apply to

individuals eligible to retire in a commissioned or warrant officer status.)

1.9.1.1. The form will acknowledge that MSgt and SMSgt selects must obtain 2 years

service retainability and incur a 2-year ADSC from the effective date of promotion to

qualify for non-disability retirement. CMSgt selects must acknowledge and obtain 3 years

service retainability and incur a 3-year ADSC from the effective date of promotion to

qualify for non-disability retirement.

1.9.1.2. Failure to withdraw an existing retirement application (approved or pending)

within 10 duty days from presentation of the AF Form 63 or Statement of Understanding

will result in removal from the selection list.

1.9.1.3. Email or fax the AF Form 63 or Statement of Understanding back to

AFPC/DPT.

1.9.2. AFPC/DPT:

1.9.2.1. Provides a list of members to AFPC/DPSOE to cancel the promotion of a

selectee who fails to withdraw any existing retirement application within 10 duty days

after confirmation of the promotion selection and to withhold the promotion of a selectee

who refuses to sign or does not acknowledge receipt of the AF Form 63 or Statement of

Understanding. (T-0)

1.9.2.2. Forwards AF Form 63 or Statement of Understanding to Automated Records

Management Systems (ARMS) for inclusion in Airman’s electronic record. (T-0)

12 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

1.10. Promotion Ceremonies . Commanders may conduct promotion ceremonies on the last

duty day before the promotion effective date, and inform the Airman that a ceremony does not

affect pay, seniority, or entitlements.

1.11. Declining Promotion . Airmen may decline a promotion in writing any time prior to the

effective date (for example, applying for a voluntary retirement). The declination letter must

include name, SSN, promotion cycle, PSN if already selected, and a statement of understanding

that reinstatement will not be authorized.

1.11.1. The MPS updates MilPDS (Grade Status Reason 3D) and sends a copy of the

declination letter to ARMS for inclusion in the Airman's electronic record (see Table 1.1,

Rule 14).

1.12. Enlisted Professional Military Education (EPME) Requirements. Airmen selected for

promotion to SSgt must complete in-residence EPME (ALS) before assuming the rank of SSgt.

Airmen must successfully complete Phase 2 distance learning prior to the AFPC suspense date

for promotion to the rank of TSgt. Airmen pending promotion consideration to the rank of

SMSgt must complete Phase 3 SNCOA or equivalent/sister service/international EPME

(correspondence or in-residence) on or before the Promotion Eligibility Cut-off Date (PECD).

PME deferments may be processed for Airmen in situations described in Table 1.2, Note 4.

(T-3). In the case that an Airman has a promotion sequence number and has not completed their

required distance learning, he or she will be placed into a promotion withhold status. The

withhold status will be removed upon course completion or it will expire at the end of the

promotion cycle where the line number will be cancelled.

1.13. Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) Requirements. Airmen eligible for

promotion to SMSgt and CMSgt must have a conferred two year CCAF degree on or before

PECD. CCAF degree may be in any discipline.

1.14. Correcting Enlistment Grades. The Skills Management Branch (AFPC/DPSOA),

approves enlistment grade corrections and AFPC/DPSOE updates MilPDS accordingly.

1.15. Correcting Promotion Effective Dates and Dates of Rank . AFPC/DPSOE corrects

promotion effective dates as a result of promotion withhold actions and supplemental promotion

selections through the Case Management System (CMS). Airmen may be authorized to

promotion effective date corrections for the following reasons: supplemental promotion

selection, PME withhold, EPME waivers, retainability withhold, investigation (military/civilian)

withhold, and Primary Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) Skill Level waivers. Retroactive

effective date corrections are not authorized: ALS academic failure, failed to complete ALS due

to disciplinary reasons, commander non-recommended retroactive promotion due to fitness

failure. AFPC/DPSOE will decide all other retroactive effective date correction requests.

1.15.1. MPS releases (cancels) promotion withholds IAW most current Enlisted Promotion

Personnel Services Delivery (PSD) Guide. (T-3)

1.15.2. MPS submits CMS requests on retainability withhold, investigation

(military/civilian) withhold, Primary AFSC Skill Level waivers, and Fitness Program

withholds. MPS must include name, SSN, cycle and grade promoted to, new Date of Rank

(DOR), effective date and promotion sequence number, date commander approved

promotion, and reason for promotion withholding. (T-3)

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 13

1.15.3. AFPC/DPSOE will ensure all supplemental promotion selection, PME withhold, and

EPME waivers are processed approximately 45 days after promotion. (T-3).

Table 1.1. Determining Ineligibility For Promotion (see Note 1).

If on or after the promotion eligibility cutoff date,

and the Airman is

serving in grade of TSgt through SMSgt

Yes

serving in grade SrA through SSgt

Yes

to be promoted to grade Amn through SrA

Yes

to be promoted to grade SSgt and TSgt under STEP

Yes

then the Airman is ineligible for promotion during a particular cycle when he or she

(includes testing, consideration if already tested, cancellation of promotion

sequence number if previously selected)

has a mandatory date of separation (DOS), High Year of Tenure

(HYT), or an approved retirement before the first day of the

month promotions are incremented in that cycle (see notes 2, 3,

and 8).

has an approved retirement delayed for medical

or hardship/humanitarian reasons.

is a career Airman who applies for retirement in lieu of, or

declines to extend or reenlist to obtain service retainability for a

controlled duty assignment, permanent change of station (PCS),

TDY, or retraining; declines retraining as outlined in AFI 36-

2626, Airman Retraining Program; declines attendance to the

Senior NCO or NCO Academy. PES code C (see notes 2 and

4).

has been convicted by court-martial (CM), or is undergoing

punishment/suspended punishment imposed by CM, or on

appellate leave. Includes Return to Duty Program (RTDP) 12

month probationary period, completed punishment, and cases

where sentence does not include punishment. PES code F (see

notes 2, 4, and 5).

is on the control roster (AFI 36-2907, Unfavorable

Information File (UIF) Program). PES code G (see Note 2).

is serving a probationary period under AFI 36-3208,

Administrative Separation of Airmen. PES code K (see note 2).

declines promotion consideration/testing and has an AF Form

1566, WAPS Test Verification or written declination for

promotion consideration, on file to that effect. PES code M.

14 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

is not recommended for promotion consideration, or the

promotion authority removes the individual from a select list.

PES code N. (See paragraph 4.2.) NOTE: Non-recommend

Airmen in the grade of AB through A1C in monthly increments

from the original effective. Below-the-Zone (BTZ) selectees

removed from the selection list remain ineligible until they

meet the fully qualified promotion requirements. Non-

recommend SrA through SMSgt for pin-on or testing for one

promotion cycle at a time. (see Note 2)

fails to appear for scheduled testing (no-show) with or without

a valid reason as decided by FSS Commander (as appropriate—

see AFI 36-2605, Attachment 9 for dispute resolution); the

MPS Section Chief disapproves out-of-cycle testing; or Airman

fails to comply with test administration procedures. PES code

P (see paragraph 2.6.3.4).

is absent without leave (AWOL)/in deserter status. PES code

U (see note 2).

(excluding minor traffic violations) has been convicted by a

civilian court or undergoing punishment, suspended

punishment/sentence, probation, work release program, or any

combination of these or similar court-ordered conditions.

Include period of time the Airman is on probation after serving

part of a sentence or has had the sentence withheld for a period

of time.

The ineligibility period will equal the maximum confinement

for the same or most closely related offense under the manual

for CM. PES code W (see note 2). (NOTE: The promotion

ineligibility or any portion of the ineligible period may be

waived. The promotion ineligibility for Airmen convicted and

sentenced to confinement cannot be waived. The waiver

authority rests with wing or equivalent level commander.)

applies for voluntary retirement after promotion selection

notification, and as a result of approved retirement, does not

have sufficient retainability to meet the required ADSC.

Update grade- status-reason to 3G. No change in PES code.

has an approved application for separation as a conscientious

objector, or is being involuntarily separated under AFI 36-

3208, Administrative Separation of Airmen. PES code V

(see note 2).

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 15

is on the select list and declines promotion, or is a MSgt,

SMSgt, or CMSgt select and fails to acquire service

retainability for promotion. Update Grade Status Reason to

3D. No change in PES code.

is denied or not selected for reenlistment by commander.

PES code J (see notes 2 and 5).

is pending administrative demotion action under Chapter 5.

PES code H (see note 2).

is disqualified from a previously awarded AFSC for cause

(RI9A200 or RI9A100). PES code Q. (NOTE: Individuals

placed in RI9A200 [unclassified Airmen pending discharge]

and RI9A100 [Airmen awaiting retraining, disqualified for

reasons within control] remain ineligible for promotion until

awarded a PAFSC at a skill level commensurate with current

grade. A1C = 3 level, SrA = 5 level, SSgt = 7 level, TSgt = 7

level, MSgt = 7 level, SMSgt = 9 level. PES code Q does not

apply to Airmen serving in grades AB and Amn) (see note 7).

is disqualified from a previously awarded AFSC not for cause

and is awaiting discharge (RI9A300) (see note 9).

is undergoing a suspended reduction imposed by Uniform Code

of Military Justice (UCMJ) Article 15, PES code A (see notes 2

and 5).

is not recommended for entry into upgrade training; or is

withdrawn from upgrade training for failing to progress to the

next higher level (training status code “T”). PES code 1 (see

note 2).

has a referral report (as defined by AFI 36-2406, Officer

and Enlisted Evaluation Systems), GSR 3C and PES code

R (see notes 2 and 6).

fails to enroll, complete, or pass Phase 2 and/or Phase 3

(Basic) EPME DL within one year of enrollment. PES

code 2 until Phase 2 or Phase 3 requirement is met. (see

note 10).

due to a failed or non-current fitness assessment as of the

promotion eligibility cutoff date (PECD). PES code 3, GSR

3C (see note 11).

16 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

NOTES:

1. For ineligibility of Airmen entering commissioning programs, see paragraph 4.1.

2. Airmen will not receive supplemental promotion consideration for any cycle for which they

were ineligible under this rule. PES code “R” will automatically expire one-day prior to

PECD/SCOD (if no other PES code applies). Airmen exceeding Time-in-Grade (TIG)/Time-

in-Service (TIS) requirements for promotion to Amn through SrA may be promoted the day

the ineligibility condition no longer exists. Reference paragraph 4.2.2.3.

3. TSgt, MSgt, and SMSgt with a retirement date effective the 1st day of the month

promotion increments begin remain eligible for promotion consideration.

4. Promotion reinstatement is not authorized and MPS changes PES to code “X” (if no other

PES code applies). For approved withdrawal of PCS declination statement (PES code “C”),

effective date is the day AFPC approves withdrawal of PCS declination statement. For

Airmen in grades SrA through SMSgt with a court martial conviction, PES code “F” expires

12 months from date sentence is adjudged or longest period of punishment, whichever is later.

Airmen in grades A1C and below with a court martial conviction, PES code “F” will apply

only if punishment is imposed and will expire upon completion of the longest period of

punishment. Airmen convicted by court martial receiving a discharge as punishment who are

approved for the Return to Duty Program (RTDP) will undergo suspended court martial

punishment (PES code “F”) while serving a 12- month probationary period beginning the

completion date of the RTDP. While undergoing suspended court martial punishment,

Airmen are ineligible for promotion.

5. In cases where reenlistment denial appeals are successfully approved, or cases where court-

martial/Article 15 punishment is set aside (includes suspended reduction), the PES code will

revert to the original PES code unless another applies. The MPS notifies AFPC/DPSOE via

email in cases where reinstatement applies.

6. Airmen in grades AB through A1C meeting TIG/TIS promotion requirements in paragraphs

2.1. and 2.2 can be promoted no earlier than the close out date of an EPR that is not a referral,

if otherwise eligible and approved by the commander. Airmen in grades SrA through SMSgt

regain promotion eligibility for future promotion cycles only after receiving a report that is not

a referral report and closes out on or before the next PECD/SCOD, if otherwise eligible.

Reinstatement is not authorized.

7. Commanders may request waiver of PES code “Q” for TSgts meeting all requirements

for upgrade to the 7-skill level, but are awaiting attendance to 7-level school. MPS

forwards approved waiver requests to AFPC/DPSOE. (T-3).

8. Members who have an approved HYT extension are eligible for promotion, however,

member must be able to obtain the necessary retainability associated with the promotion; if

member is unable to obtain retainability then he/she is ineligible during the promotion cycle.

Promotion eligibility reinstatement is not authorized for an Airman whose approved

retirement date is withdrawn or changed (this includes HYT extensions).

9. Reinstatement of promotion eligibility is authorized if the decision to discharge is

reversed and R I9 A 3 0 0 is removed.

10. One year of enrollment begins when officially notified to enroll in DL.

11. Commanders will withhold an individual’s projected promotion following a failed or

non- current fitness assessment after the promotion eligibility cutoff date (PECD), or after

having been seselected for promotion (line number) IAW Table 1.2, item 3.

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 17

Table 1.2. Withholding Promotion (see paragraph 4).

ITEM

Withhold an Airman's

promotion when his or her name

is not removed from a select or

eligibility list and the Airman is

awaiting a decision on an

application as a conscientious

objector (AFI 36-3204,

Procedures for Applying as a

Conscientious Objector). PES

code S.

placed in the Alcohol and Drug

Abuse Prevention and Treatment

(ADAPT) Program. PES code E.

(see notes 1 & 2).

Commanders will withhold an

individual’s projected promotion

following a failed a fitness

assessment after the promotion

eligibility cutoff date (PECD), or

after having been selected for

promotion (line number)

under military/civil court charges. PES

code D. (see note 3).

under investigation (military/civil.) PES

code B (see note 3).

pending data verification and the

record is not available. Grade Status

Reason code 2D, 2M or 2P.

missing source document and the

AFPC cannot verify one or more

promotion factors. GSR code 2P.

18 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

under other reasons the commander

requests with prior approval from

the individual's wing commander.

(Do not use reasons of substandard

behavior or performance, problems

with OJT, misbehavior, etc.) GSR

code 2N.

selected for promotion to

MSgt/SMSgt and identified as having

18 or more years TAFMS on the

promotion effective date and does not

have 2 years retainability the day

before the promotion effective date;

selected for promotion to CMSgt

(regardless of TAFMS) and does not

have 3 years retainability before the

promotion effective date.

GSR code 2K.

serving in the grade of SrA, selected for

promotion to SSgt, and has not completed

resident Airman Leadership School;

serving in the grade of SSgt/ TSgt, the

projected promotion will be placed into

withhold, if the 12-month EPMPE

enrollment expires before the promotion

sequence number (PSN) consummates.

The PSN will be removed if EPMPE is not

completed by the end of the promotion

cycle (see note 4). GSR code 2T.

serving in the grade of SrA through

SMSgt and does not meet skill level

requirements as listed in Table 2.1. by

the effective date of promotion. GSR

2N.

Notes:1. Commanders will withhold a projected promotion of an individual in the ADAPT

Program (PES Code “E”). The Commander has the discretion to release the withhold action

at any time and either recommend or non-recommend the Airman for promotion.

2. Commanders should consider recommendations from the Treatment Team (TT).

The promotion authority retains final decision.

3. A commander will withhold an Airman's promotion if he or she is under investigation,

or the subject of a military or civil criminal law inquiry (formal or informal) which may

result in action under UCMJ or prosecution by civil authorities. The commander may

continue to withhold the promotion when the investigation or inquiry is complete but no

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 19

determination has been made as to the action the military or civil authorities will take. (T-

1).

4. For Airman Leadership School, wing commander or equivalent (Equivalent level

Commander is defined as the first Senior Rater in the rating chain) is the approval and

disapproval authority for EPME waivers (cannot be further delegated). They may defer

EPME requirements for a maximum of 179-days for Airmen who lack EPME completion

for promotion to SSgt. This waiver process does not waive any other withhold conditions.

Process these requests through the chain of command (squadron commander, group

commander, and wing commander) to AFPC/DPSOE who acts as the final approval

authority. The only exception for waivers beyond 179 days is for Airmen on

TDYs/deployments that exceed 179 days, on short tour locations with no EPME available,

and Airmen who cannot Senior Rater in the rating chain) is the approval and disapproval

authority for EPME waivers (cannot be further delegated). They may defer EPME

requirements for a maximum of 179-days for Airmen who lack EPME completion for

promotion to SSgt. This waiver process does not waive any other withhold conditions.

Process these requests through the chain of command (squadron commander, group

commander, and wing commander) to AFPC/DPSOE who acts as the final approval

authority. The only exception for waivers beyond 179 days is for Airmen on

TDYs/deployments that exceed 179 days, on short tour locations with no EPME available,

and Airmen who cannot complete required EPME before promotion due to circumstances

beyond their control (i.e., retraining, medical issues, personal hardship, EFMP, etc).

Commanders use Attachment 3 to request a promotion waiver for deserving Airmen who

meet these scenarios. Route these requests through AFPC/DPSOE. If approved,

AFPC/DPSOE will update MilPDS and, if required, will grant a retroactive effective date

IAW paragraph 1.15. Commanders may only approve one EPME waiver per Airman;

approval authority for subsequent EPME waiver requests are at the discretion of AF/A1D.

(T-3).

5. Commanders will withhold an individual’s projected promotion following a failed a

fitness assessment after the promotion eligibility cutoff date (PECD), or after having been

selected for promotion (line number). Commanders consult AFI 36-2905 for administrative

options for Airmen who fail to maintain fitness standards throughout the year. Update PES

Code “N” when the commander non-recommends promotion; update PES Code “Y” when

the commander withholds promotion. Reference paragraph 4.2 of this AFI when deferring

promotions to the grades of SSgt through CMSgt.

Table 1.3. Significant Dates of Promotion

If the promotion

is to the grade of

the cycle

designation is

the PECD is

the promotion date

Amn

the day of the month

on which TIG and

PES requirements

A1C

SrA

20 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

are met (see

paragraph 2.1. or

2.2.).

SSgt

31 Mar

1 Sep thru 1 Aug

(see note 1).

TSgt

31 Jan

1 Aug thru 1 Jul

(see note 1).

MSgt

30 Nov

1 Aug thru 1 Jul

(see note 1).

SMSgt

30 Sep

1 Apr thru 1 Mar

(see note 1).

CMSgt

31 Jul

1 Jan thru 1 Dec

(see note 1).

NOTES:

1. These dates reflect the normal promotion cycle increment months; however, due to

budget constraints or other unforeseen actions, these dates may be extended. Anyone

promoted beyond the normal cycle will be allowed to assume the higher grade effective

the date his/her PSN is incremented. The Airman’s DOR will equal the first day of the last

month of the normal promotion cycle. Those Airmen promoted beyond a normal cycle are

not entitled to apply for correction of military records under the provisions of AFI 36-

2604, Service Dates and Dates of Rank, to have their effective date retroactively adjusted

to their DOR.

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 21

Chapter 2

REGULAR AIR FORCE AIRMAN PROMOTIONS TO GRADES AMN THROUGH

CMSGT

2.1. Airman and A1C Promotions (see Table 1. 3)

2.1.1. An AB is eligible for promotion to Amn at 6 months TIG. An Amn is eligible for

promotion to A1C at 10 months TIG.

2.1.2. Individuals initially enlisting for a period of 6 years are promoted from AB or Amn to

A1C upon completion of either technical training or 20 weeks of technical training (start date

of the 20 week period is the date of Basic Military Training (BMT) completion), whichever

occurs first. The DOR for A1C is then adjusted to the date completed BMT without back pay

and allowances.

2.1.3. The promotion authority must recommend the promotion in writing before the Airman

assumes the grade.

2.2. SrA Promotions (see Table 1.3):

2.2.1. Airmen (fully qualified) are promoted to SrA upon meeting minimum requirements in

Table 2.1, when recommended by the promotion authority in writing, and have completed 36

months TIS and 20 months TIG or 28 months TIG (whichever occurs first).

2.2.1.1. In situations where an RegAF Airman is unable to obtain their 3-skill level

before the projected promotion date and training delay was due to no fault of the Airman,

the Unit Commander must ensure retroactive promotion is requested through the MPS

upon the Airmen obtaining their 3-skill level. (T-3).

2.3. SrA Below-The-Zone (BTZ) Promotion Program:

2.3.1. SrA BTZ is a one-time promotion consideration to advance to SrA 6 months prior to

the fully qualified phase point listed in paragraph 2.2.1 above. Host wing commander (or

senior Air Force officer serving in that capacity) establishes written administrative

procedures for small units serviced by their installation, and may do so for large units if

desired. Procedures must ensure all eligible Airmen receive fair, equitable, and timely BTZ

consideration. Airmen must meet skill level requirements in Table 2.1.

2.3.1.1. Commander must review EPRs, Personal Information Files (PIF) (if available),

and discuss nominations with the member’s supervisors/rating chain prior to making a

nomination decision, regardless if the Airman is meeting a large unit or a small

unit/Central Base Board (CBB).

2.3.1.2. AF Form 1206, Nomination for Award, is required for all A1Cs being nominated

to the CBB for BTZ consideration. Note: DBH reports are no longer required or

authorized.

2.3.2. Airmen are identified during the processing month and SrA BTZ promotion selections

are made during the months indicated in Table 2.6.

2.3.3. Airmen must be “considered” by the losing unit if their report not later than date

(RNLTD) is the 1st day of the first processing month or later.

22 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

2.3.4. Personnel Systems Management Section (PSM) provides an automatic quarterly end

of month (EOM) output product to the Career Enhancement Element within the first 10 days

of the first processing month (i.e. Jan, Apr, Jul, Oct). The roster identifies all A1Cs who meet

or exceed the TIS and TIG requirements, regardless of promotion ineligibility conditions (i.e.

on the control roster, PAFSC skill level too low, undergoing Article 15 suspended reduction,

etc.), and whose grade status reason (GSR) does not equal code ―5Q (previously considered

for SrA BTZ). This output product automatically updates the GSR to ―5Q to prevent them

from appearing on future SrA BTZ listings. Remove names of those exceeding TIG/TIS

requirements. (NOTE: A1Cs with GSR “YY” or “ZZ” may not show on roster.) The

output product produces an MPS alphabetical listing and a three-part unit listing:

2.3.4.1. Part I: Identifies A1Cs with no quality indicators in their record.

2.3.4.2. Part II: Lists “questionable eligibles” (individuals with quality indicators) who

may not be qualified for BTZ promotion.

2.3.4.3. Part III: Lists A1Cs who meet the TIG and TIS requirements, but cannot be

selected due to promotion ineligibility conditions listed in Table 1.1.

2.3.4.4. Using the Military Personnel Section (MPS) listing, verify the eligibility of each

individual to ensure they meet the TIG and TIS requirements for the current quarter.

Only verify the TIG and TIS requirements and do not consider normal promotion

ineligibility conditions. This will ensure only those meeting the TIG and TIS

requirements are considered and possibly prevent someone from being considered more

than once for SrA BTZ promotion. Remove any names of those who do not meet the

current quarter TIG and TIS requirements and ensure the GSR 5Q is corrected to allow

the member to show up on a future roster. Remove any names of those exceeding TIG

and TIS requirements and determine if the member was considered during a previous

quarter’s board. If the member was serviced by the current MPS, review the previous

quarterly rosters. If not, contact the previous MPS to verify if they were considered at

that location. For individuals not considered during the quarter in which they met TIG

and TIS eligibility and are recommended by the commander, request supplemental BTZ

consideration.

2.3.4.4.1. Host wings with enough eligible students (7 or more) to earn a quota (CBB

or large unit) may request an exception to policy to hold a “student only” BTZ board.

Requests are forwarded through the MPS, Career Development Section, and MPS/CC

for approval. Technical Training locations apply. If request is not approved or there

are less than 7 eligible technical training students they will be considered at the

central base board since they contribute to the quota authorization.

2.3.4.4.2. All ROTC/USAFA eliminees who were given credit toward their DOR

(DOR is prior to the Effective Date) are ineligible for BTZ consideration. They are

eligible for SrA after 1 year on entered active duty (EAD)and have obtained a 3-skill

level.

2.3.4.4.3. All ROTC/USAFA eliminees that were NOT given credit toward their

DOR (DOR and Effective Dates are the same) are eligible for BTZ consideration.

2.3.4.4.4. Verify BTZ eligibility of all A1C departing PCS and prepare a BTZ

selection folder for airmen departing prior to the 1st processing month for the BTZ

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 23

quarter they are TIG/TIS eligible and whose RNLTD is the 1st day of the first

processing month or later.

2.3.5. SrA BTZ quotas are based on the total TIG and TIS eligible population listed on Parts

I, II, and III of the quarterly BTZ roster. Large units (7 or more eligibles) are excluded from

the eligible population when calculating the CBB quotas. Distribute CBB quotas based on

15 percent of eligibles (eligibility for distribution of quotas is based on TIG and TIS only,

regardless of normal ineligibility conditions). Obtain host wing commander approval for

CBB quota. Host wing commander may delegate approval of quota distribution no lower

than the MPS Commander. Large unit (7 or more eligibles) quotas are based on 15 percent

of their unit’s eligible population.

2.3.5.1. Units cannot aggregate above the unit level. If a unit commander (not group) is

the commander having promotion authority for more than one organization, the eligibles

are combined at the unit level and the unit remains a small unit or becomes a large unit (7

or more eligibles).

2.3.5.2. In cases where there is a large unit (7 or more eligibles based on TIG and TIS

only) and there are not enough eligibles from all the small units to meet the 1-quota

requirement based on 15 percent of the eligible population, the large unit and small units

will combine to meet at the central base board. Do not deviate from established written

procedures for these boards.

2.3.5.3. In cases where there are no large units and there are only 2-6 eligibles from all

the small units, the base is authorized to hold a central base board and allowed 1-quota.

2.3.5.4. In cases where there are no large units and there is only 1 eligible out of the

entire base population eligibles, the MPS Promotions office will notify the MPS/CC to

determine if a board should be held. The MPS/CC may authorize 1-quota.

2.3.6. Large units (7 or more eligibles) receive their own quotas and promote at unit level.

Unless the host wing commander establishes written procedures, commanders of large units

will establish written selection procedures that ensure the SrA BTZ program is fair,

equitable, and provides timely promotion consideration. Once selections are made, large unit

commanders underline the selectee(s) name, sign, date, and return the BTZ eligibility listing

to the MPS no later than the last day of the selection month (i.e. 31 Mar, 30 Jun, 30 Sep, 31

Dec).

2.3.7. Small units (6 or less eligibles) are combined into one pool of eligibles to form the

CBB population. The host wing commander will establish written BTZ selection procedures

to include method of nominating, number of nominations, time table to complete required

actions, board composition, areas to be considered, scoring scale, announcing selections and

any other required actions necessary to ensure the SrA BTZ program is fair, equitable, and

provides timely promotion consideration. The MPS, Career Development Section, will

ensure they have received all nomination packages from units with eligibles; if a unit is not

going to nominate, ensure negative reply is received.

2.4. Central Base Board (CBB) Process.

2.4.1. Units will consider all individuals meeting TIS and TIG requirements, even if they are

TDY, on leave, have PCA'd, or have a report not later than date (RNLTD) on or after the first

24 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

day of the first processing month (i.e., Jan, Apr, Jul, and Oct) for that quarter selections. All

individuals appearing on the eligibility listing must be “considered”; as stated earlier, this

means that the commander must review any EPR(s) the Airman may have, PIF, discuss the

consideration with the supervisor and chain of command, etc., before making a BTZ

recommendation. The MPS will verify BTZ eligibility of A1Cs departing PCS (determine

the quarter the individual is BTZ eligible) and ensure a BTZ selection folder is prepared prior

to PCS departure. MPS Career Development Section must coordinate on the AF Form 907,

Relocation Preparation Checklist, for all A1Cs departing PCS. When a selection folder is

not prepared prior to an individual’s PCS departure, the gaining MPS must make every effort

to obtain a copy of the individual’s AF Form 1206 and decoration citations by contacting the

losing MPS.

2.4.1.1. Adjustments will not be made to the gaining unit/base quota if the error is

discovered and an individual should have been considered by their losing base. Every

effort should be made to ensure the individual is considered by their losing unit/base. If

the losing unit/base has already announced selections, supplemental consideration (with

current commander recommendation) should be requested by the gaining base.

2.4.2. The host wing commander will establish board procedures for the CBB (see paragraph

2.3.1 and 2.3.7). (T-3)

2.4.2.1. Host wing commander may require all units under their command (not tenant

units) to nominate to the CBB. Tenant units remain large units unless host wing

commander allows them to compete at the CBB.

2.4.2.2. Commanders must review any EPR(s) the Airman may have, his/her Personal

Information File (PIF) if available, and discuss nominations with the member’s

supervisors/rating chain prior to making a nomination decision.

2.4.2.3. AF Form 1206 is required for all A1Cs being nominated to the CBB for BTZ

consideration. Note: DBH reports are no longer required or authorized.

2.4.2.4. After CBB convenes, a board report will be accomplished. The board report

should contain a list of board members, board recorder, order of merit (identifying total

score and select/nonselect status), and cutoff score. The report should be signed by the

board president and board recorder, and approved by the host wing commander, unless

the host wing commander is the board president; then only one signature is necessary.

2.4.3. If an Airman was not considered during their eligibility time frame and the error is

discovered before BTZ selections are announced, large unit commander will consider the

Airman and adjust selections accordingly. The CBB will reconvene to consider small unit

eligibles and selections are adjusted accordingly. If the error is discovered after selections

are announced, request supplemental BTZ consideration IAW paragraph 2.5.

2.4.4. Alternates may be selected in the event a selectee is removed before the effective date.

SrA BTZ promotions cannot be placed in withhold. Projected promotions must be removed

for any quality indicators listed in Table 1.1 (including under investigation). If extenuating

circumstances exist, request reinstatement in accordance with paragraph 4.3. If the first

alternate's SrA BTZ DOR has already passed, they will receive the original BTZ DOR and an

effective date of unit commander approval. MPS assists the airman in applying for a

retroactive promotion effective date according to paragraph 1.15.

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 25

2.4.5. After selections are made, unit commanders provide a written promotion

recommendation prior to the promotion effective date.

2.4.6. Update SrA BTZ promotions immediately upon receipt of selections in MILPDS in

accordance with Enlisted Promotions PSD Guide.

2.5. Supplemental BTZ Consideration.

2.5.1. Unit Commanders may request supplemental BTZ consideration for individuals who

should have been considered by a previous board and the error was not discovered until after

selections are announced or promotions are updated. Unit commanders provide justification

for members not receiving a fair consideration and forwards fully documented supplemental

request to the MPS for consideration.

2.5.2. Supplemental consideration will not be given for the following reasons:

2.5.2.1. Incorrect data reflected on the BTZ RIP.

2.5.2.2. Denied BTZ nomination due to incorrect data reflected on the BTZ output

products or in the ARMS record.

2.5.2.3. BTZ eligibility listing not returned to the MPS or individuals were overlooked

on the listing.

2.5.2.4. Nomination packages or decoration not completed/turned in/approved in time to

meet the board.

2.5.3. Supplemental BTZ nominees receive an extra quota for themselves, ONLY. If

supplemental nominee is not selected, the extra quota goes away. DO NOT give the extra

quota to other nominees.

2.5.4. Supplemental BTZ must be requested and approved prior to the next convening BTZ

board. The supplemental nominee will be considered along with the other eligibles in the

next quarter.

2.6. SSgt, TSgt, and MSgt Promotions (see Table 1. 3). Airmen compete and test under the

Weighted Airmen Promotion System (WAPS) in the Control Air Force Specialty Code (CAFSC)

held on the PECD. Table 2.2 outlines WAPS factors and formulas.

2.6.1. AFPC/DPSOE :

2.6.1.1. Makes promotion selections using WAPS (promotion file) and data in MilPDS.

Only EPRs received during each grade’s period of promotion eligibility (maximum of 3

Force Distributed reports) are used to compute the EPR weighted factor score. All

eligibles are required to have an EPR that closes out within one year of the PECD on file

to compete for promotion. If a member does not have an EPR on file, they cannot be

considered for promotion until their EPR closes out. At that time, the member will be

considered supplementally.

2.6.1.2. Considers Airmen automatically eligible (see Table 2.3, Rule 3, Note 4) if they

are in a retraining status without a PAFSC skill level (Table 2.3.) in their current grade.

2.6.1.3. Applies the quota to each promotion Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC), with the

highest scores in each AFSC selected. (T-0)

26 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

2.6.1.4. Promotes Airmen in chronic critical shortage (CCS) skills at a higher selection

rate than those of non-CCS skills. AF/A1 approves and provides promotion allocation

rates to AFPC/DPSOE for each promotion AFSC based on A1P promotion analysis and

CCS skills review prior to each promotion cycle. (T-1).

2.6.1.5. Considers Airmen with SKT exemptions in one of two promotion AFSCs

(00XXX CCS or 00XXX for non-CCS). (See Table 2.4, Note 1.) EXCEPTION:

Retrainees in AFSCs without SKTs compete along with all other Airmen in that AFSC.

2.6.1.5.1. After serving in an awarded AFSC for at least 1 year, Airmen are SKT-

Exempt for 24 months if they are determined as not fully qualified (SrA = 5

level/SSgt = 7 level) upon return to their previously awarded AFSC. Update a Date

Initially Entered Retraining (DIERT) to the date the Airman returned to the previous

AFSC. For periods of less than 1 year, ensure the Airman takes the SKT (if AFSC has

SKT for particular cycle).

2.6.1.6. Accomplishes an order of merit list in each promotion AFSC from the highest

score to lowest score and applies the promotion quota. Selects all Airmen with tied

scores at the cutoff for their AFSC. (T-0)

2.6.1.7. Conducts data verification on selects NLT 10 days after virtual promotion

release and notifies MPS when errors are identified. (T-0)

2.6.2. The MPS:

2.6.2.1. Instructs eligible Airmen to review their records in PRDA, and obtain/review

their DVR/score notices on vMPF to verify the data used in the promotion selection

process. (T-3)

2.6.2.2. Schedules and tests Airmen using the CAFSC held on the PECD. IAW AFI 36-

2605, Air Force Military Personnel Testing Program, Attachment 9, Airmen who fail to

show for scheduled promotion testing without a valid reason are ineligible for promotion

consideration during that particular promotion cycle (Table 1.1, Rule 9). Ensure the

Airman signs a statement in accordance with paragraph 1.11, or the AF Form 1566,

WAPS Test Verification, used to administer tests, to document declination. (T-3)

2.6.2.3. Notifies Airmen in writing when a data error is found during data verification

that could result in nonselection, and directs individuals to not assume the new grade

until AFPC/DPSOE confirms the selection status. (T-3)

2.6.2.4. Monitors and resolves non-weighable/“data errors” before testing window

begins as outlined in this AFI and supplementary program guidance published on myPers

and in the latest Personnel Services Delivery (PSD) Guide.

2.6.3. Unit Commanders:

2.6.3.1. Advise selects that promotions are tentative pending verification by

AFPC/DPSOE as outlined in paragraph 2.6.1.7. (T-3)

2.6.3.2. Advise Airmen not to assume the next higher grade if data verification discovers

missing or erroneous data. (T-3)

2.6.3.3. Recommend promotion in writing prior to assuming the higher grade, and

initiate nonrecommendation and removal action when necessary. (T-3)

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 27

2.6.3.4. May request rescheduling from the FSS Commander for Airmen who did not

report for testing as specified on the AF Form 1566 or RIP 1566 if convinced the Airman

did everything within his or her control to make the appointment. If rescheduling is

disapproved for first time no-shows, MPS updates the PES code to “P.” (T-3)

2.6.4. To be eligible for promotion consideration, an Airman must:

2.6.4.1. Meet all requirements in Table 2.1.

2.6.4.2. Review records in Personnel Records Display Application (PRDA),

obtain/review Data Verification Rip (DVR) on the vMPF and report any errors to the

appropriate MPS workcenter or agency for correction of errors.

2.6.4.3. Test for promotion as outlined in AFI 36-2605. Failure to report for scheduled

testing (which includes both tests, if applicable) renders an Airman ineligible for

promotion consideration unless rescheduling is approved. A second no-show

automatically renders an Airman ineligible for promotion.

2.6.5. Airman prepares for promotion testing (includes obtaining testing material, knowing

testing window and date, knowing promotion AFSC), which is solely an individual

responsibility and should not be considered an item for enlisted professional development.

Group study in any forum or format is prohibited.

2.6.6. Airman retrieves his/her WAPS score notice after promotions are announced. WAPS

score notices are a means to give Airmen a report of their relative standing in the promotion

consideration process and must never be provided to, or used by, anyone other than the

individual and his/her commander. Commanders may request an airman’s scores from the

airman or the MPS. Commanders must restrict their use of the scores to notification and

advisory counseling on the airman’s behalf and must not allow further dissemination of

scores or their use for purposes other than advisory counseling.

2.7. MSgt Promotions: TSgts eligible for promotion to MSgt compete and test under the

WAPS in the CAFSC held on the PECD. Individuals with a reporting identifier (RI) or special

duty identifier (SDI) designated as their CAFSC on the PECD will compete within that RI or

SDI. Consideration for promotion to the grade MSgt is comprised of a two-part process

consisting of WAPS factors and a central evaluation board. See Table 2.7 for WAPS factors and

formulas.

2.7.1. AF/A1:

2.7.1.1. Approval authority for the enlisted evaluation board formal charge and

promotion policy associated with convening of all enlisted evaluation boards.

2.7.1.2. Approves the formal board charge annually prior to the convening of first

enlisted evaluation board during the calendar year and any essential policy guidance for

managing evaluation boards. Review feedback from the previous Board President. (T-1).

2.7.1.3. Approves and provides promotion allocation rates to AFPC/DPSOE for each

promotion AFSC based on A1P promotion analysis and CCS skills review prior to each

promotion cycle.

2.7.2. AFPC/CC:

2.7.2.1. Appoints board members for the SNCO evaluation board. (T-1).

28 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

2.7.2.2. Convenes SNCO evaluation board. (T-1).

2.7.2.3. Approves evaluation board results. (T-1).

2.7.2.4. Notifies parent MAJCOM of eligibles rendered not fully qualified (NFQ) for

promotion by the central evaluation board. “NFQ” may be used when a record does not

reflect potential for advancement to the next higher grade. (T-1).

2.7.2.5. The Executive Director assumes these responsibilities in the commander's

absence.

2.7.3. AFPC/DPSOE :

2.7.3.1. Announces eligibility cutoff and board convening dates annually. (T-0).

2.7.3.2. Consider Airmen automatically eligible (see Table 2.3, Rule 3 Note 4) if they are

in a retraining status without a PAFSC skill level in their current grade.

2.7.3.3. For promotion to the grade of MSgt, retrainees who are SKT exempt will not be

considered in promotion in AFSC 00XXX. All retrainees will compete for promotion in

their CAFSC held as of the PECD.

2.7.3.4. After serving in an awarded AFSC for at least one year, Airmen may be SKT

Exempt for 24 months if they are determined as not fully qualified (TSgt = 7 level) upon

return to their previously awarded AFSC. Update their DIERT to the date the Airman

returned to the previous AFSC. For periods of less than 1 year, the Airman must take

their SKT (if AFSC has SKT for particular cycle).

2.7.3.5. DELETED.

2.7.3.6. DELETED.

2.7.3.7. Uses the master promotion file to rank Airmen in order of merit, within AFSC,

using the combined evaluation board score (270 to 450 points) and the weighted factor

score (Table 2.7 and Table 2.8). (T-1).

2.7.3.8. Accomplishes an order of merit list in each promotion AFSC from the highest

score to lowest score and applies the promotion quota. Selects all Airmen for promotion

whose scores are tied at the cutoff for their AFSC. (T-1).

2.7.3.9. Promotes Airmen in CCS skills at a higher selection rate (determined annually

by AF/A1P) than non-CCS skills. (T-1).

2.7.3.10. Makes promotion selections using WAPS and the Central Evaluation Board

results. (T-1).

2.7.3.11. Prepares select lists for virtual release. (T-1).

2.7.3.12. Prepares and forwards written NFQ notifications to AFPC/CC and member’s

chain of command when the board renders an Airman NFQ. For those AFSCs with only

one Airman eligible and that eligible Airman is rendered NFQ, the AFSC will be

deactivated from the promotion cycle. (T-1).

2.7.3.13. Sends NFQ memorandums to servicing MPSs for chain of command

notifications. (T-0)

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 29

2.7.3.14. Conducts data verification on selects NLT 10 days after virtual promotion

release and notifies the MPS when errors are identified. (T-0).

2.7.4. AFPC/PB :

2.7.4.1. Conducts the Central Evaluation Board in accordance with Chapter 3. (T-1).

2.7.5. The MPS:

2.7.5.1. Schedules and tests Airmen using the CAFSC held on the PECD to determine

test requirements. (T-0). Airmen who fail to show for scheduled promotion testing

without a valid reason may be ineligible for promotion consideration during that

particular promotion cycle (Table 1.1, Rule 9) IAW AFI 36-2605.

2.7.5.2. Notifies AFPC/DPSOE by message of Airmen who already tested, but later

desire to decline promotion consideration. Ensures the Airman signs a statement in

accordance with paragraph 1.11 or the AF Form 1566 used to administer tests to

document their declination. Declination letter or AF Form 1566 must be sent must be

sent to ARMS. (T-3).

2.7.5.3. Instructs Airmen to review their record in PRDA, obtain and review their DVR

before the testing window and their score notice on the vMPF to verify the data used in

the promotion process. (T-3).

2.7.5.4. Notifies unit commanders of each eligible individual's promotion status. (T-3).

2.7.5.5. Notifies Airmen in writing when a data error is found during data verification

that could result in nonselection, and directs individuals to not assume the new grade

until AFPC/DPSOE confirms the selection status. (T-3).

2.7.5.6. Monitors and resolves non-weighable conditions/“data errors” before the testing

window begins as outlined in this AFI and supplementary program guidance published on

myPers and in the latest Personnel Services Delivery (PSD) Guide. (T-3).

2.7.6. Unit Commanders:

2.7.6.1. Advise selects that promotions are tentative pending verification until

AFPC/DPSOE completes data verification as outlined above. (T-3).

2.7.6.2. Advise Airmen not to assume the next higher grade if data verification discovers

missing or erroneous data. (T-3).

2.7.6.3. Recommend promotion prior to assuming the higher grade and initiate withhold

or nonrecommendation and removal action, when necessary. (T-3).

2.7.6.4. May request rescheduling from the FSS Commander for Airmen who did not

report for testing as specified on the AF Form 1566 or RIP 1566 if convinced the Airman

did everything within his or her control to make the appointment. If rescheduling is

disapproved for first time no-shows, MPS updates the PES code to “P.” (T-3).

2.7.7. Airmen:

2.7.7.1. Meet all requirements in Table 2.1.

30 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

2.7.7.2. Review records (Selection Folder) in PRDA, obtain/review Data Verification

Rip (DVR) on the vMPF and report any errors to the appropriate MPS work center or

agency for correction of errors prior to the testing window.

2.7.7.3. Have an EPR closing out within the last 12 months prior to PECD. (T-0).

2.7.7.4. Test for promotion as outlined in AFI 36-2605. Failure to report for scheduled

testing (which includes both tests, if applicable) renders an Airman ineligible for

promotion consideration unless rescheduling is approved. A second no-show

automatically renders an Airman ineligible for promotion. (T-0).

2.7.7.5. Prepares for promotion testing (includes obtaining testing material, knowing

testing window and date, knowing promotion AFSC), which is solely an individual

responsibility and should not be considered an item for enlisted professional

development. Group study in any forum or format is prohibited. (T-0).

2.7.7.6. Retrieves his/her WAPS score notice after promotions are announced. WAPS

score notices are a means to give Airmen a report of their relative standing in the

promotion consideration process and must never be provided to, or used by, anyone other

than the individual, unless the individual provides the scores.

2.8. SMSgt and CMSgt Promotions (see Table 1.3) . Airmen compete, and are selected for

promotion, in the superintendent level (for SMSgt) or the chief enlisted manager (CEM) code

(for CMSgt) of their CAFSC. Individuals with a RI or SDI designated as their CAFSC on the

PECD will compete within that RI or SDI. Promotion selection for SMSgt and CMSgt is a two-

phase process consisting of WAPS factors and a central evaluation board. See Table 2.8 for

WAPS factors and formulas.

2.8.1. AF/A1:

2.8.1.1. Appointed as the approval authority for the enlisted evaluation board formal

charge and promotion policy associated with convening of all enlisted evaluation boards.

2.8.1.2. Approve the formal board charge annually prior to the convening of first enlisted

evaluation board during the calendar year and any essential policy guidance for managing

evaluation boards. Review feedback from the previous Board President. (T-0).

2.8.1.3. Approves and provides promotion allocation rates to AFPC/DPSOE for

application to each promotion AFSC based on A1P promotion analysis and CCS skills

review prior to each promotion cycle.

2.8.2. AFPC/CC:

2.8.2.1. Appoints board members for the SNCO evaluation board. (T-0).

2.8.2.2. Convenes SNCO evaluation board. (T-0).

2.8.2.3. Approves evaluation board results. (T-0).

2.8.2.4. Notifies parent MAJCOM of eligibles rendered not fully qualified (NFQ) for

promotion by the central evaluation board. “NFQ” may be used when a record does not

reflect potential for advancement to the next higher grade. (T-0).

2.8.2.5. The Executive Director assumes these responsibilities in the commander's

absence.

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 31

2.8.3. AFPC/DPSOE:

2.8.3.1. Announces eligibility cutoff and board convening dates annually. Sends NFQ

memorandums to servicing MPS’s for chain of command notifications. (T-0).

2.8.3.1.1. If the date of the special order is prior to the month promotion selections

are made, the decoration will automatically update the promotion master file.

2.8.3.1.2. If the date of the special order is the month selections are made or later,

send the following documents to AFPC/DPSOE: Written request with unit

commander’s recommendation, citation, DECOR 6 (both pages), amendments (if

any), documentation verifying when decoration was placed into official channels, and

documentation of corrective/follow-up action taken by the Airman.

2.8.3.2. Uses the promotion master file to rank Airmen in order of merit within AFSC or

CEM code using the combined evaluation board score (270 to 450 points) and the

weighted factor score (Table 2.7 and Table 2.8). (T-0).

2.8.3.3. Applies the quota to each promotion AFSC or CEM, with the highest scores in

each AFSC or CEM selected. (T-0).

2.8.3.4. Promotes Airmen in CCS skills at a higher selection rate (determined annually

by AF/A1P) than non-CCS skills. (T-1).

2.8.3.5. Makes promotion selections using WAPS and the Central Evaluation Board

results. (T-0).

2.8.3.6. Prepares select lists for virtual release. (T-0).

2.8.3.7. Prepares and forwards written NFQ notifications to AFPC/CC and member’s

chain of command when the board renders an Airman NFQ. For those AFSCs with only

one Airman eligible and that eligible Airman is rendered NFQ, the AFSC will be

deactivated from the promotion cycle. (T-0).

2.8.3.8. AFPC/DPSOE conducts data verification on selects prior to virtual promotion

release. When a data error is found that could result in non-selection, the Airman is

notified of the error in writing and directed not to assume the new grade until

AFPC/DPSOE confirms the selection status. (T-0).

2.8.4. AFPC/PB:

2.8.4.1. Conducts the Central Evaluation Board in accordance with Chapter 3. (T-0).

2.8.4.2. Supplemental board consideration is not provided when corrected data increases

an Airman’s weighted factor score so that the total revised promotion score is at or above

the cutoff needed for selection. In such cases, Airmen become selects without

supplemental board evaluation.

2.8.4.3. Those personnel requiring a board score greater than the maximum allowable

board score (450 points) will not be granted supplemental promotion consideration.

2.8.5. The MPS:

2.8.5.1. Schedules and tests Airmen using the CAFSC held on the PECD to determine

test requirements. Airmen who fail to show for scheduled promotion testing without a

32 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

valid reason may be ineligible for promotion consideration during that particular

promotion cycle (Table 1.1, Rule 9) IAW AFI 36-2605. MPSs notify AFPC/DPSOE by

message of Airmen who already tested, but later desire to decline promotion

consideration. Ensures the Airman signs a statement in accordance with paragraph 1.11

or the AF Form 1566 used to administer tests to document their declination. (T-3).

2.8.5.2. Notifies unit commanders of each eligible individual's promotion status. (T-3).

2.8.5.3. Instructs Airmen to review their record in PRDA, obtain and review their DVR

along with their score notice on the vMPF to verify the data used in the promotion

process. (T-3).

2.8.6. Airmen:

2.8.6.1. Must meet the eligibility criteria outlined in paragraph 2.6.4, Table 2.1, Rules 5

& 6 and have an EPR closing out within the last 12 months prior to the PECD.

2.8.6.2. Obtain and review DVRs along with score notices on the vMPF, review PRDA

selection folder to ensure data is correct, and notify the appropriate MPS workcenter or

agency for correction of any errors.

2.8.6.3. The MPS:

2.8.6.3.1. Ensures selects assigned a .9 PSN obtain the required 2 years retainability

for promotion to MSgt or SMSgt, and 3 years retainability for promotion to CMSgt

from effective date of promotion, and may apply for a change to their ETS once the

retroactive effective date is processed. (T-3)

2.8.6.3.2. Instructs commanders to make a written promotion recommendation. (T-

2.8.6.4. The Unit Commander:

2.8.6.4.1. Instructs selects with a .9 PSN that they are not to assume the higher grade

until they obtain retainability (if required). (T-3)

2.8.6.4.2. Notifies selects with a .9 PSN they may assume the next higher grade on

the date of written approval, if data verification is complete and they have required

retainability. (T-3)

2.8.6.4.3. AFPC/DPSOE will grant a retroactive effective date correction to match an

Airman’s DOR in accordance with paragraph 1.14.

2.9. Supplemental Promotions for SSgt Through CMSgt. AFPC/DPSOE conducts in-system

supplemental promotion consideration monthly after initial promotion selection and announces

supplemental selection board dates for eligible Airmen. See paragraph 1.15 for DOR and

effective date corrections. Supplemental promotion consideration will not be granted if the error

or omission appeared on/in the Airman’s DVR, PRDA/ARMS record, or senior NCO selection

folder and no corrective or follow-up action was taken by the Airman prior to the promotion

selection date for SSgt through TSgt and prior to the original evaluation board for MSgt through

CMSgt. Fully documented supplemental consideration requests will be submitted in writing, to

include the Airman’s unit commander’s recommendation to the MPS. MPSs will review and

forward requests to AFPC/DPSOE via CMS. (T-3).

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 33

2.9.1. If an Airman missed one or more testing cycles (due to deployment or hospitalization,

etc.), he/she is considered retroactively. This is done using scores from the first available

WAPS tests upon return. If selected for previous cycles, the Airman will receive a retroactive

date of rank and back pay.

2.9.1.1. Airmen must complete Airman Leadership School before being considered for

STEP promotion to SSgt, or the resident NCO Academy before being considered for

STEP promotion to MSgt (this requirement cannot be waived).

2.9.1.2. A minimum of 12 months TIG is required for STEP promotion to TSgt and

MSgt; promotions to SSgt must have a minimum of 6 months TIG.

2.9.1.3. Commanders may waive other promotion eligibility requirements in Table 2.1.

(T-3)

2.9.2. A separate written request is not required when an individual has indicated his or her

desire to apply for supplemental consideration in conjunction with the EPR appeal process.

NOTE: Ensure Blocks 9 and 10, on the AF Form 948, Application for Correction/Removal of

Evaluation Reports, are completed.

2.9.3. Supplemental promotion may be granted for those individuals who are recommended

by their unit commander and are non-weighable, had a change to the weighted data elements

(see Table 2.2.) (must be effective prior to PECD), or had wrong or missing data for a

specific cycle.

2.9.3.1. A supplemental request based on a missing decoration must have a closeout date

on or before PECD, and the commander’s recommendation date on the DECOR 6 must

be before the date AFPC makes the selections for promotion. Resubmit decorations

(downgraded, lost, amended, etc.), to verify the original submission was placed into

official channels prior to the selection date.

2.9.3.1.1. If the date of the special order is prior to the month promotion selections

are made, the decoration will automatically update the promotion master file.

2.9.3.1.2. If the date of the special order is the month selections are made or later,

send the following documents to AFPC/DPSOE: Written request with unit

commander’s recommendation, citation, DECOR 6 (both pages), amendments (if

any), documentation verifying when decoration was placed into official channels, and

documentation of corrective/follow-up action taken by the Airman.

2.9.3.2. AFPC considers MAJCOMs, FOAs, and DRUs without a quota (less than 300

SrA through TSgt) and announces procedures via annual STEP message. (T-0)

2.9.3.3. Updates all STEP promotions into MilPDS. The effective date and DOR are the

date the selection authority announces the selections. (T-0)

2.9.4. MSgt thru CMSgt Supplemental Procedures: There are no automatic approvals for

supplemental promotion consideration. Table 2.5 is used to determine whether or not a

request for supplemental promotion consideration is authorized, and if so, whether or not

mandatory scoring is required. Final decisions for approval of supplemental consideration

requests rest with the AFBCMR or AFPC/DPSOE.

34 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

2.9.4.1. TSgt, MSgts, and SMSgt meeting one of the reasons in Table 2.5 may be

considered supplementally. These individuals will receive supplemental selection board

consideration, if approved in accordance with Chapter 3.

2.9.4.2. Supplemental board consideration is not provided when corrected data increases

an Airman’s weighted factor score so that the total revised promotion score is at or above

the cutoff needed for selection. In such cases, Airmen become selects without

supplemental board evaluation.

2.9.4.3. Those personnel requiring a board score greater than the maximum allowable

board score (450 points) will not be granted supplemental promotion consideration.

2.9.5. Score notices are not provided for Airmen who receive supplemental board

consideration to MSgt, SMSgt, and CMSgt, unless they were not considered by the original

board. Weighted scores only are provided (not a board score).

2.9.6. Supplemental Processing Instructions:

2.9.6.1. Individuals supplementally selected for promotion to grades SSgt through

CMSgt receive PSNs of .9 (on increments previously announced) or .5 (unannounced

future increment).

2.9.6.2. Individuals selected and assigned a .9 PSN are automatically projected for

promotion the first day of the month following the month they were considered/selected

in. This is to ensure data verification is completed and the commander recommends

promotion prior to the promotion automatically consummating.

2.9.6.3. The MPS:

2.9.6.3.1. Ensures selects assigned a .9 PSN obtain the required 2 years retainability

for promotion to MSgt or SMSgt, and 3 years retainability for promotion to CMSgt

from effective date of promotion, and may apply for a change to their ETS once the

retroactive effective date is processed. (T-3).

2.9.6.3.2. Instructs commanders to make a written promotion recommendation. (T-

3).

2.9.6.4. The Unit Commander:

2.9.6.4.1. Instructs selects with a .9 PSN that they are not to assume the higher grade

until they obtain retainability (if required). (T-3).

2.9.6.4.2. Notifies selects with a .9 PSN they may assume the next higher grade on

the date of written approval, if data verification is complete and they have required

retainability. (T-3).

2.9.6.4.3. AFPC/DPSOE will grant a retroactive effective date correction to match an

Airman’s DOR in accordance with paragraph 1.15.

2.10. Promoting Under Stripes for Exceptional Performers (STEP). This program

supplements existing Airman Promotion programs and is designed to accommodate unique

circumstances that, in the commander’s judgment, clearly warrant promotion. It is intended to

provide a means to promote Airmen for compelling, although perhaps not quantifiable, reasons.

Isolated heroic acts or specific achievements should not be the sole basis for promotion under

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 35

this program. STEP promotions are authorized to grades SSgt and TSgt. Airmen are not

supplementally considered for STEP. DOR and effective date are the date the selection authority

announces the promotion.

2.10.1.1. Airmen must complete Airman Leadership School before being considered for

STEP promotion to SSgt (this requirement cannot be waived).

2.10.1.2. A minimum of 12 months TIG is required for STEP promotion to TSgt and

promotions to SSgt must have a minimum of 6 months TIG.

2.10.2. Selections will be based on recommendations from subordinate commanders or

personal knowledge of the individual. Time consuming administrative boards are

discouraged.

2.10.3. AFPC/DPSOE:

2.10.3.1. Distributes STEP quotas to MAJCOMS, FOAs, DRUs and Air Force Elements

with 575 or more SrA and SSgts assigned. (T-1).

2.10.3.2. AFPC considers MAJCOMs, FOAs, and DRUs without a quota (less than 575

SrA through SSgt) and announces procedures via annual STEP message. (T-1).

2.10.3.3. Updates all STEP promotions into MilPDS. The effective date and DOR are the

date the selection authority announces the selections. (T-0).

2.10.4. The MPS:

2.10.4.1. Completes P-series orders and notifies AFPC/DPSOE by message of STEP

selections within 72 hours. Include name, SSN, grade promoted to, effective date,

CAFSC, assignment unit, special order number, and date. (T-3).

Table 2.1. Minimum Eligibility Requirements for Promotion (See Note 1).

promotio

n is to the

grade of

(see note

and the

PAFSC

as of

PECD

is at the

and time in

current

grade is

computed on

the first day

of the month

before the

month

promotions

are made

and the

TAFMD is on

the first day

of the last

month of the

promotion

cycle (see note

and the

Airman

has

and

following

mandatory

education

is complete

(see note 9)

then

SrA (see

para. 2.2.)

3 level

(see note

not applicable

(see para.

2.2.1. for

requirements)

1 year (see

para. 2.2.1.

for TIG/TIS

requirements)

See note 9

the Airman is

eligible for

promotion if

recommended

in writing, by

the promotion

36 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

SSgt (see

Table

2.3and

para. 2.6

and notes

5, 6)

5 level

(see note

6 months

3 years

See note 9

authority. He

or she must

serve on AD

in enlisted

status as of

the PECD,

serving

continuous

AD until the

effective date

of promotion,

and is not in a

condition

listed under

Table 1.1 on

or after the

PECD. The

individual

must be in

PES code X

on effective

date of

promotion

(see note 8).

TSgt (see

para. 2.6.)

7 level

(see

note 5)

23 months

5 years

See note 9

MSgt (see

para. 2.6.)

7 level

24 months

8 years

See note 9

SMSgt

(see

para.

2.7.)

7 level

(see

note 5)

20 months

11 years

8 yrs

cumulative

enlisted

service

(TEMSD)

creditable

for basic

pay (see

note 7)

SNCO

Academy

and

Associates

Degree

from

Community

College of

the Air

Force

(CCAF)

(see notes

10 and 11)

CMSgt

(see

para.

2.7.)

9 level

(see note

21 months

14 years

10 yrs

cumulative

enlisted

service

(TEMSD)

creditable

for basic

pay (see

note 7)

Associates

Degree from

Community

College of

the Air

Force

(CCAF) (see

notes 10and

11)

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 37

Notes:

1. Use this table to determine standard minimum eligibility requirements for promotion

consideration. HQ USAF may announce additional eligibility requirements. The individual must

serve on enlisted AD and must have been on a continuous active duty as of PECD. (T-0)

2. The high year of tenure (HYT) policy applicable as of PECD may affect promotion eligibility

in grades SrA and above. (T-0).

3. Use years of satisfactory service for retirement in place of TAFMSD to determine promotion

eligibility for Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Airmen ordered to extended active duty

(EAD). Exception: Active Guard Reserve (AGR or Statutory tours). Reserve or Guard Airmen

are eligible for promotion if EAD is on or after PECD. (T-0).

4. A1Cs must meet skill-level requirements by the effective date of promotion for SrA.

However, an A1C in lengthy tech school training, or in a hardship situation, who doesn’t possess

the minimum required PAFSC can be granted a skill level waiver (SLW) to pin on SrA. The

technical training squadron commander or for Airmen in a hardship/medical situation, the unit

commander may submit a request for SLW stating the extenuating circumstances (i.e., awaiting

training, medical delays, etc.) to AFPC/DPSOE. (T-0).

5. SrA must meet skill-level requirements by the PECD for SSgt, except for those individuals in

PES “Q.” SSgts test and compete for promotion to TSgt if they have a 5-skill level as of PECD;

however, they must have a 7-skill level before promotion. Commanders may waive the 7-skill 7-

level school. TSgts without the appropriate skill level are ineligible to test unless they have a

valid DIERT date. MSgts and SMSgt must meet minimum skill-level requirements listed above.

MSgt and SMSgt skill levels may be waived according to Table 2.3. to allow them to compete for

promotion. Demote Airmen promoted with a PAFSC waiver who fail to obtain or maintain grade

skill relationship as outlined in Chapter 6. (T-0).

6. Airmen demoted to SrA, SSgt, or TSgt will not have their HYT adjusted to make them eligible

to compete for promotion. Airmen who are demoted past their HYT for that grade will not be

afforded an opportunity to promotion test. If demoted, an Airman’s HYT will be established in

accordance with AFI 36-3208. (T-0).

7. Service in a commissioned, warrant, or flight officer status is creditable for pay but it cannot be

utilized to satisfy the TEMSD requirement (38 Comptroller General 598). Airmen may be

considered for promotions who meet this requirement on the 1st day of the last month promotions

are normally made in the cycle. Actual promotion does not occur earlier than the 1st day of the

month following the month the Airman completes the required enlisted service. This applies if

the select had a sequence number in an earlier promotion increment; however, if the Airman

meets the required enlisted service on the first day of the month, the DOR and effective date is

that date. (T-0).

8. If a TDY student meets the requirements of this table, but does not maintain satisfactory

proficiency, the MPS that services the Airman's TDY unit informs the MPS servicing the Airman's

unit of assignment. (T-3).

9. To satisfy promotion eligibility requirements, EPME will be completed by in-residence for

promotion to SSgt and by correspondence for promotion to SMSgt. All PME may be completed

in-residence or by correspondence. If selected, the projected promotion will be placed into

withhold, if the 12-month EPMPE enrollment expires before the promotion sequence number

(PSN) consummates. The PSN will be removed if EPMPE is not completed by the end of the

promotion cycle (T-0).

10. Completion of the United States Army Sergeants Major Academy, the United States Navy

38 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

Senior Enlisted Academy, the United States Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Academy, United

States Marine Corps Staff NCO Academy, or approved comparable international courses are

equivalent to SNCOA. (T-0).

11. The CCAF degree can be in any discipline. Degree must be conferred (awarded) by CCAF on

or before the promotion eligibility cut-off date. (T-0).

Table 2.2. Calculating Points and Factors for Promotion to SSgt and TSgt.

If the

factor is

then the maximum score is

SKT

100 points. Base individual score on percentage correct (two decimal

places). (note 1).

PFE

100 points. Base individual score on percentage correct (two decimal

places). (note 1).

TIS

13 points. Award 0.05416667 points for each month of TAFMS up to 20

years, as of the last day of the last month of the promotion cycle.

Example: The last day of the last month of the cycle (31 Jul 03 minus

TAFMS date (18 Jul 96) equals 7 years 14 days (inclusive dates

considered equals 7 x 0.05416667 = 0.37 points). (note 1)

TIG

20 points. Award 0.16667 point for each month in grade up to 10 years,

as of the first day of the last month of the promotion cycle (count 15 days

or more as 0.16667 point; drop periods less than 15 days). Example: The

first day of the last month of the promotion cycle (1 Jul 03) minus current

DOR (1 Jan 00) equals 3 years 6 months 1 day (inclusive dates

considered) equals 42 x .0.16667 = 7.00 points. (note 1)

Decorations

25 points. Assign each decoration a point value based on its order of

precedence. (note 3)

Medal of Honor: 15

Air Force, Navy, or Distinguished Service Cross: 11

Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal,

Silver Star: 9

Legion of Merit, Defense Superior Service Medal, Distinguished Flying

Cross: 7

Airman, Soldier, Navy-Marine Corps, Coast Guard Bronze Star,

Defense/Meritorious Service Medals, Purple Heart: 5

Air, Aerial Achievement, Air Force Commendation, Army

Commendation, Navy-Marine Corps Commendation, Joint Services, or

Coast Guard Commendation Medal: 3

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 39

If the

factor is

then the maximum score is

Navy - Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force, Army, or Joint Service

Achievement Medal: 1

EPRs

250 points. Multiply each EPR’s point value (note 4), preceding the

PECD, not to exceed the last three Force Distributed EPRs in the Airman’s

current grade, by the time-weighted factor for that specific report. When

the maximum three Force Distributed EPRs are calculated the time

weighted factors begins with 50 percent (.50) for the most recent report, 30

percent (.30) for the middle or second most recent report, and 20 percent

(.20) for the bottom report (50% - 30% -20%). After calculating each

report, add the total weighted point value of each report for a sum. When

an Airman is in his/her second year of eligibility, and/or when only two

reports are calculated, the time weighted factor begins with 60 percent

(.60) for the top or most recent report and 40 percent (.40) for the bottom

report (60% - 40%). When an Airman is in his/her first year of promotion

eligibility and/or when only one EPR is calculated, the time weighted

factor is 100 percent. (notes 1, 4, and 5)

Example: EPR string (most recent to oldest): Promote Now + Must

Promote + Promote

Promote Now [250] x .50 = 125 weighted points

Must Promote [220] x .30 = 66 weighted points

Promote [200] x .20 = 40 weighted points

231 points

40 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

If the

factor is

then the maximum score is

Notes:

1. Cutoff scores after the second decimal place. Do not use the third decimal place to round

up or down. (T-0).

*2. DELETED

3. The decoration closeout date must be on or before the PECD. The signed date by the

higher official endorsing the recommendation on the DECOR 6 must be before the date HQ

AFPC announced the selections for promotion. Fully document resubmitted decorations

(downgraded, lost, etc.) and verify they were placed into official channels before the

selection date. (T-0).

4. Promote Now = 250, Must Promote = 220, Promote = 200, Not Ready Now – 150,

Do Not Promote = 50. (T-0).

5. Only count evaluations received during each grade’s period of promotion eligibility. Do

not count non-evaluated periods of performance, such as break in service, report removed

through appeal process, etc., in the computation. However, if one of the last three Force

Distributed EPR ratings have been removed or reflects a nonrated period, and the Airman is

on a third or subsequent eligibility the fourth EPR, if a Force Distributed report will become

the third EPR in the last three reports used in the weighted calculation score. (T-0).

Table 2.3. PAFSC Skill Level Waivers to Compete for Promotion (See Note 1).

A B

If the Airman does not possess the required PAFSC skill

level

then a

PAFSC skill

level waiver

and performs duties in RI or SDI (except for RI 9S100)

Authorized

(see note 2).

*DELETED

and is an A1C through SMSgt in retraining or pending

retraining consideration (RI 9A000) and would have upgraded

by the PECD for promotion to SSgt through SMSgt, or the last

day of the month for A1C eligibles for SrA were identified, had

the Airman not retrained (see note 4)

and is a SrA assigned to a specialty requiring lengthy formal

training and did not have sufficient time or training to upgrade

to the appropriate skill level due to the length of the formal

school

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 41

and is a SrA through TSgt in normal upgrade training (see note

not authorized.

and returns to duties from an RI, SDI, or another awarded

AFSC, to another AFSC

Authorized

(see note 2).

Notes:

1. Do not allow prior service enlistees and former officers skill level waivers except as

indicated in paragraph 7.3. (T-0).

2. Process PAFSC skill-level waivers as outlined in this AFI and supplementary program

guidance published on myPers and in the latest Personnel Services Delivery Guide. (T-3).

3. Airmen in these RIs (except for RI 9S100) as of the PECD must meet skill levels

established by the Air Force Technical Applications Center (AFTAC). Airmen who fail to

meet the requirements imposed by the unit commander are ineligible for a skill-level

waiver. Airmen with these RIs as their PAFSC must meet the skill-level criteria indicated

on the certificate from AFTAC. An Airman m us t have the certificate before promotion to

MSgt. (T-3).

4. Since the majority of Airmen are in a retraining status (SSgt through MSgt) and

promotion to SMSgt and CMSgt are routinely approved for a PAFSC skill-level waiver,

the promotion record is built as "eligible" during the promotion file build. The

promotion authority may still deny the Airman promotion consideration by disapproving a

PAFSC skill-level waiver. (T-3).

5. Normally, do not permit Airmen in normal upgrade training a skill-level waiver. Grant

PAFSC skill level-waivers before PECD for significant documented interruptions (beyond

the Airman’s control) in current training that prevents the Air Airman from upgrading. (T-3).

Table 2.4. SKT Exemptions (See Note 1 and Paragraph 2.6.1.5.)

If on or before the PECD the Airman is

then an SKT

exemption is

performing duties in RI 9S100, 9S200 (see note 2)

not authorized.

disqualified (RI 9A000) and awaiting retraining

authorized.

in normal upgrade training (see note 3)

not authorized.

awaiting retraining and their CAFSC has changed to the new

AFSC as outlined in AFI 36-2101, Classifying Military

Personnel (Officers and Enlisted) (Training Status Code “M”

applies)

authorized.

SrA through TSgt in retraining status (see note 4)

returned to duty in a fully qualified AFSC from another

awarded AFSC (dual qualified) (see note 5)

returned to duty in another awarded AFSC not fully qualified

(see Para 2.6.1.5.)

NOTES:

42 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

1. Consider Airmen who are SKT exempt for promotion in one of two promotion AFSCs,

one for non-chronic critical skills (non-CCS) and another for CCS. When there is not an

SKT for the specialty, then all Airmen in that AFSC compete for promotion together,

regardless of their training status (i.e., retrainees, etc.). All Airmen who are SKT exempt

and are in an AFSC where an SKT exists can take the SKT by signing a statement. Once

signed, do not reverse the decision without unit commander and MPS commander

concurrence. Once the promotion test is administered, do not reverse the decision. Refer to

TCO memorandums for other SKT exemptions.

2. Airmen must fulfill PAFSC skill-level requirements according to Table 2.3.

3. Allow Airmen who return to a previously awarded AFSC for which they are not assigned

within the last year and do not have the required skill level (SrA = 5 level, SSgt = 7 level, &

TSgt = 7 level) a 24-month SKT exemption. Update a DIERT date equal to the date the

Airman returned to the previous AFSC. Approve a PAFSC skill-level waiver according to

Table 2.3.

4. Allow SKT exemptions for 24 months regardless of training status. Airmen can elect to

take the SKT by signing a statement. Do not reverse the Airman's decision to take, or not to

take, the SKT without unit commander and MPS commander concurrence. Do not reverse

the decision once the promotion test is administered.

5. MPS updates MilPDS Training Status Code (TSC) "I" with a Date Initially Entered

Retraining (DIERT) equal to the date of return into the previous awarded AFSC (ref AFI

36-2101, Classifying Military Personnel [Officers and Enlisted]) if within 6 months of

PECD. Airmen may elect to take the SKT. Do not place prior service Airmen or former

officers in TSC "I".

Table 2.5. Authorized Reasons to Request Senior NCO Supplemental Promotion Board

Consideration (See Note 1)

If the item concerns

and the correction is to

then

consideration

supplemental

evaluation

board is

and

rescoring

PME (see note 2)

add the Senior NCO Academy course

authorized.

Mandatory

(see note 3)

EPR

add, remove, or make significant

change

academic education

show academic degree completion

Optional

(see note

correct academic specialty

change year of completion

not

authorized.

N/A

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 43

decoration

add a decoration (not authorized if

the citation or order was filed or if

the decoration was listed on the brief

used by the board)

authorized.

Optional

(see note 4)

projected retirement data

(individuals who are

eligible

and considered by

original board)

delete a projected retirement that is

not valid at the time board met

Mandatory

(see note 3)

delete a projected retirement that was

valid when the board convened but

later withdrawn

not

authorized.

N/A

change the projected retirement date

any eligibility factor or

erroneously considered in

the wrong AFSC

render an Airman eligible (as of the

PECD) who was erroneously

ineligible when the board convened

or correct AFSC effective prior to

PECD

authorized.

Mandatory

(see note 3)

projected HYT date

(individuals who were

ineligible because of an

HYT date and not

considered by the original

board)

show approved extension of HYT

date (and reason is best interest of

the Air Force)

authorized

Mandatory

(see note 3)

Duty history

add/correct duty history data

authorized

optional

NOTES:

1. Do not allow supplemental consideration for Airmen needing more than the maximum board score

(450 points) for selection.

2. Credit is given if the Airman takes the end of course (EOC) examination on or before the PECD

and successfully completes the course, even if it is not scored until after the PECD (HAF files will not

change, only the promotion and WAPS Information Retrieval [WIRE] files). PME was last used for

CMSgt during cycle 94E9 and for SMSgt during cycle 96E8.

3. Mandatory scoring eliminates the need for optional review; the record goes directly to a

supplemental panel to score the record.

4. Prior to rescoring the record, the panel considers the type of error, the degree of impact on the

promotion score, and the number of points needed for selection. Those records the panel considers

but chooses not to rescore are rendered nonselects.

Table 2.6. SrA Below the Zone Processing Months and Board Dates

Processing Months

Board/Selection Month

For promotions in

44 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

January/February

March

April - June

April/May

June

July - September

July/August

September

October - December

October/November

December

January - March

Table 2.7. Calculating Weighted Points and Promotion Factors for Promotion to MSgt.

If the

factor is

then the maximum score is

SKT

100 points. Base individual score on number correct (two decimal places)

(note 1). A minimum SKT score of 40 points is required (a combine score

of 90 SKT/PFE points is required (note 2). If SKT exempt, individual will

compete for promotion in the CAFSC they possess on PECD.

PFE

100 points. Base individual score on number correct (two decimal places).

(note 1) A minimum PFE score of 40 points is required (a combine score

of 90 points SKT/PFE is required). Airmen testing PFE only are required

to score a minimum of 45 points (note 2)

TIS

13 points. Award 0.05416667 points for each month of TAFMS up to 20

years, as of the last day of the last month of the promotion cycle.

Example: The last day of the last month of the cycle (31 Jul 03 minus

TAFMS date (18 Jul 96) equals 7 years 14 days (inclusive dates considered

equals 7 x 0.05416667 = 0.37 points) (note 1)

TIG

20 points. Award 0.16667 point for each month in grade up to 10 years, as

of the first day of the last month of the promotion cycle (count 15 days or

more as 0.16667 point; drop periods less than 15 days). Example: The first

day of the last month of the promotion cycle (1 Jul 03) minus current DOR

(1 Jan 00) equals 3 years 6 months 1 day (inclusive dates considered)

equals 42 x .0.16667 = 7.00 points (note 1)

Decorations

25 points. Assign each decoration a point value based on its order of

precedence. (note 3)

Medal of Honor: 15

Air Force, Navy, or Distinguished Service Cross: 11

Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal, Silver

Star: 9

Legion of Merit, Defense Superior Service Medal, Distinguished Flying

Cross: 7

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 45

Airman, Soldier, Navy-Marine Corps, Coast Guard Bronze Star,

Defense/Meritorious Service Medals, Purple Heart: 5

Air, Aerial Achievement, Air Force Commendation, Army Commendation,

Navy-Marine Corps Commendation, Joint Services, or Coast Guard

Commendation Medal: 3

Navy - Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force, Army, or Joint Service

Achievement Medal: 1

Board Score

450 points. Each panel member scores each record, using a 6- to 10-point

scale and half-point increments. An individual’s record may receive a

panel composite score (3 members) from a minimum of 18 (6 - 6 - 6) to a

maximum of 30 (10 - 10 - 10) points. The composite score (18 to 30

points) is later multiplied by a factor of 15, resulting in a total board score

(270 to 450). If SKT exempt, individual’s record will meet the panel for

the CAFSC they possess on PECD.

Example:

Panel composite score 8 + 8.5 + 8 = 24.5

24.5 x 15 =

367.5 Board Score

Notes:

1. Cutoff scores after the second decimal place. Do not use the third decimal place to round

up or down. (T-0).

2. Airmen that score the minimum 40 points on either the SKT or PFE (when taking both

examinations) must score a minimum of 50 on the other one, in order to meet the minimum

combine score of 90. For those testing PFE only a minimum score of 45 is required (combine

score of 90 when doubled). Airmen that fail to obtain the minimum score will be rendered a

promotion non-select. (T-0).

3. The decoration closeout date must be on or before the PECD. The signed date by the

higher official endorsing the recommendation on the DECOR 6 must be before the date HQ

AFPC announced the selections for promotion. Fully document resubmitted decorations

(downgraded, lost, etc.) and verify they were placed into official channels before the selection

date. (T-0).

Table 2.8. Calculating Weighted Points and Promotion Factors for Promotion to SMSgt

and CMSgt.

If the factor

then the maximum score is

USAFSE

100 points. Base individual score on correct (note 1). A minimum score

of 45 points is required (note 2).

46 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

TIS

8 points. Credit .03333333 point for each month of TAFMS, up to 25

years, computed as of the last day of the cycle (note 1).

TIG

20 points. Credit 0.16667 point for each month in current grade based on

DOR up to 10 years, computed as of the first day of the last month of the

cycle (note 1).

Decorations/

Awards

25 points. Assign each decoration a point value based on its order of

precedence as follows (note 3):

Medal of Honor: 15

Air Force, Navy, or Distinguished Service Cross: 11

Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal,

Silver Star: 9

Legion of Merit, Defense Superior Service Medal, Distinguished Flying

Cross: 7

Airman, Soldier, Navy-Marine Corps, or Coast Guard Bronze Star,

Defense/Meritorious Service Medals, Purple Heart: 5

Air, Aerial Achievement, Air Force Commendation, Army

Commendation, Navy-Marine Corps

Commendation, Joint Services Commendation, or Coast Guard

Commendation Medal: 3

Navy - Marine Corps Achievement, Coast Guard Achievement, Air Force

Achievement, Army Achievement, or Joint Service Achievement Medal:

Board Score

450 points. Each panel member scores each record, using a 6- to 10-point

scale and half-point increments. An individual’s record may receive a

panel composite score (3 members) from a minimum of 18 (6 - 6 - 6) to a

maximum of 30 (10 - 10 - 10) points. The composite score (18 to 30

points) is later multiplied by a factor of 15, resulting in a total board score

(270 to 450).

Example:

Panel composite score 8 + 8.5 + 8 = 24.5

24.5 x 15 =

367.5 Board Score

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 47

Notes:

1. Cut off scores after the second decimal place. Do not use the third decimal place to round

up or down. (T-0).

2. A minimum USAFSE score of 45 is required to maintain promotion eligibility. Airmen

that fail to obtain the minimum score will be rendered a promotion non-select. (T-0).

3. The decoration closeout date must be on or before the PECD. The signed date by the

higher official endorsing the recommendation on the DECOR 6 must be before the date HQ

AFPC announced the selections for promotion. Fully document resubmitted decorations

(downgraded, lost, etc.) and verify they were placed into official channels before the

selection date. (T-0).

48 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

Chapter 3

*REGULAR AIR FORCE SENIOR NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER EVALUATION

/SUPPLEMENTAL BOARD PROCEDURES

3.1. General. This chapter provides guidance and outlines operating procedures to be used in

the administration and conduct of RegAF central senior noncommissioned officer evaluation and

supplemental boards for the United States Air Force at AFPC, USAF Selection Board

Secretariat. Selection Board Secretariat personnel are responsible for conducting central

evaluation and supplemental boards for promotions to Master Sergeant, Senior Master Sergeant,

and Chief Master Sergeants on the active duty list.

3.2. Responsibilities. Board members and alternate board members should familiarize

themselves with applicable portions of this instruction. Board members will be provided a link

to the site that contains this AFI in their board member notification letter. Alternate board

members will remain on stand-by for the duration of the board.

3.3. Board Membership. Board membership will reflect the eligible population in terms of

minority and gender, MAJCOM of assignment, and career area. Career areas, when practical, are

broken into four categories: Support, Operations, Maintenance, and Medical. The largest AFSCs

within each career area garner a board member when practical.

3.4. Board Organization . Boards will be constructed with a Board President (at least a

Brigadier General) and at least one panel. Panels will consist of one colonel (current or

“graduated” group commander, when practical) and two chief master sergeants from the same

career area (defined in paragraph 3.3.). AFSCs and CEM codes will be scored by panels with

representatives from the AFSCs or CEM codes under consideration or from the same career area

as those being evaluated. All members of an AFSC or CEM code will be evaluated by the same

three board members.

3.5. Board Member Preparation. The Selection Board Secretariat will pre-brief the Board

President (BP) on the board agenda, Formal Charge, BP responsibilities, and the trial run

exercise (practice scoring session). Board recorders will conduct the first day administrative

briefing to the board. The BP will then read the Formal Charge verbatim to the board and a copy

will be provided to each board member. Each board member will initial a copy of the Formal

Charge to be maintained in the permanent record. Oaths are administered to board members and

to the recorders and administrative staff. A trial run exercise will then be conducted to

familiarize board members with the selection board records and situations the board may

encounter during actual scoring

3.6. Scoring Records. Board scores are based upon the material in each eligible’s

Noncommissioned Officer Selection Record (NSR). Board members will not have access to

objective WAPS data to include United States Air Force Supervisory Examination (USAFSE)

scores.

3.6.1. Board members will assign each eligible member a board score reflecting their

assessment of relative leadership potential. Select/Non-Select decisions are made based upon

the totality of the eligible’s scores in WAPS, not just their board score. (See Table 2.2 and

Table 2.7).

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 49

3.6.2. Scoring is by secret ballot and without benefit of discussion, unless a significant

disagreement (a "split") occurs in the scores on a particular record.

3.6.2.1. If a board member identifies a record-based matter that causes concern, he/she

will surface the matter to the board recorder who will discuss it with the BP. The BP may

approve bringing that matter to the attention of the board members. Such records may be

rescored after discussion.

3.6.2.2. Board members may discuss their own personal knowledge and evaluation of the

professional qualifications of eligible Airmen as long as they discuss only matters

documented in the NSR.

3.6.2.3. Board members may not discuss or disclose the opinion of any person not a

member of the board concerning the member.

Figure 3.1. Scoring Scale. Boards will use the following scale

Score

Potential

10.0

Absolutely superior

9.5

Outstanding

9.0

Few could be better

8.5

Strong

8.0

Slightly above average

7.5

Average

7.0

Slightly below average

6.5

Well below average

6.0

Lowest

3.7. Defining "Splits". A "split" is a significant disagreement between board members about

the score of a record. A "split" is considered a difference in a score of 1.5 or more points between

any two panel members (e.g., 6 and 7.5, or 8 and 9.5).

3.8. Resolving "Splits". All scoring stops and all voting panel members must be present and

may discuss the records involved in a "split." Only panel members with split scores may change

their scores in the process of resolving a split. A "split" is resolved when there is a difference in a

score of 1.0 or less points between any two panel members (e.g., 6 and 7.0, or 8 and 8.5).

3.9. New Documents. If new information (e.g., decoration citation, enlisted performance

report, updated SNCO evaluation brief) concerning individual records is acquired during scoring,

the affected records will be brought back to the panel for rescoring. New documents will not be

accepted after the panel has adjourned.

3.10. Not Fully Qualified (NFQ) for Promotion. Board members are charged to identify any

Airman who, in their opinion, is NFQ for advancement to the next higher grade. Board members,

when assessing the Airman’s record, may recommend to the Board President the Airman be

rendered NFQ for promotion if, in their evaluation, they do not believe the Airman has

demonstrated the potential for advancement. NFQ is a mechanism designed to preclude

promotion by default in small career fields; however, it should not normally be used to supplant

the 6 to 10 scoring methodology with a pass-fail methodology. It shall not be used to “send” a

message to the eligible or the eligible’s chain of command.

50 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

3.10.1. The Board President will review the record of any Airman a panel renders NFQ. If

the board president believes the record has been inconsistently scored, the board president

may send the record back to the panel for verification. Although a board member’s rationale

for determining an eligible to be NFQ is not releasable, he/she should be prepared to explain

the logic behind the decision to the BP. Those individuals which a majority of the panel

believes are NFQ are identified as such in the board report and are not considered for

promotion.

3.10.2. For those AFSCs with only one Airman eligible and that Airman is rendered NFQ,

the AFSC will be deactivated from the promotion cycle.

3.10.3. AFPC/PB provides a list of Airmen rendered NFQ by the board to AFPC/DPSOE. If

the board determines an Airman is NFQ based on an evaluation of the record, the

Airman is rendered ineligible for the promotion cycle.

3.11. BP Quality Review. In order to assure consistency of scoring, the Board President

reviews records from each AFSC or CEM code under consideration. To do this, the Board

Secretariat takes the following actions:

3.11.1. Prior to the board, the staff works with the Enlisted Promotion & Military Testing

Branch and the Air Staff to determine (as closely as possible) the number of projected

promotions, as well as those AFSCs and CEM codes on the Chronic Critical Shortage Skills

Listing for that promotion cycle.

3.11.2. After the panel finishes scoring each AFSC or CEM code, the Board Secretariat staff

will produce the board score relative order of merit listing for the specialty. They will then

identify the area on the order of merit corresponding to the projected promotion quota for

that specialty by:

3.11.2.1. Drawing a line at the score category that comes closest to fulfilling the

projected quota without exceeding it.

3.11.2.2. Drawing another line one score category lower on the order of merit.

3.11.2.3. The Board President will then receive the following: a representative sampling

of records directly above, below, and in the identified area; the highest scoring record in

the specialty; and any records found to be NFQ by the panel.

3.11.2.4. During his/her review, if the Board President believes one or more records

from this sampling were scored inconsistently, he/she then reviews all records from the

affected score categories involved and may direct rescore of any record he/she deems fit.

The BP will review the resulting scores and determine whether the first score or the

rescore shall be the final score for the record (the BP may only direct one rescore for a

particular record considered).

3.12. Board Report . AFPC/PB prepares board proceeding reports and handles as FOR

OFFICIAL USE ONLY, under provisions of DoD Regulation 5400.7-R_AFMAN 33-302, DoD

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Program, and retains them for the period specified in the Air

Force Records Disposition Schedule, available on-line at

https://www.my.af.mil/afrims/afrims/afrims/rims.cfm

3.12.1. Provides a board report to AFPC/DPSOE, Enlisted Promotions and Military Testing

Branch, which will discuss the proceedings of the board and identify those Airman found to

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 51

be NFQ for promotion. Board scores will flow electronically into WAPS from the

boardroom. All board members, recorders, and administrative assistants/support personnel

will sign the board report. (T-0).

3.13. Outbrief Board Members. Board recorders out-brief board members on the rules of

disclosure of board proceedings, providing some cautions about what can and cannot be

discussed as well as collecting all notes. It is important that personal observations not jeopardize

the credibility of the board process and that Airmen receive a consistent Air Force message.

3.13.1. The Selection Board Secretariat staff will inform board members and administrative

assistants that all involved with the board process are prohibited from ever sharing their

observations of board proceedings i.e., how members voted, discussions about members’

records, lists or statistics of results, who served on which panel.

3.13.2. Board members and administrative assistants are encouraged to use the briefing

slides provided by the Board Secretariat Staff to brief the board process and structure i.e.,

numbers considered, board organization, steps followed.

3.14. Board Anomalies. Procedural anomalies occurring during a board that may require

variation from established procedures require BP resolution. During the board, the BP may bring

any matter to the attention of the CSAF or AFPC/CC, if he or she determines that such decision

is required. The need for an alternate board member being called to replace a primary board

member will be treated as an anomaly and will follow guidelines specified in this paragraph.

The Board President will make determinations on availability of a primary board member and an

alternate board member and is the authorizing official for directing that an AFPC/CC-approved

alternate replace a board member.

3.15. Supplemental Boards. The following differences in procedure apply to supplemental

boards:

3.15.1. Board Organization. Boards will be constructed with a Board President (at least a

Brigadier General) and at least one panel. Each panel will be composed of board members

from one of the four career areas. For example, one panel could have a mission support

group commander, an operations chief master sergeant, and a maintenance chief master

sergeant. Panels will not be confined to scoring specific AFSCs or CEMs. Similarly, one

panel will not necessarily see all the records from a specific AFSC or CEM.

3.15.2. Determining Select/Non-Select Status. AFPC/DPSOE determines what board score

an eligible would have needed in order to beat the promotion cutoff from the original board.

See paragraphs 2.7 and 2.6.2.

3.15.2.1. An eligible Airman’s record is compared to benchmark records. Benchmark

records are: three records with the same required score as identified in paragraph 3.15.3

(“plus” benchmark) and three records a half point below (“minus” benchmark). All

records are “aged” to appear as they would have on the original board, and all records are

scored together.

3.15.2.2. The panel compares the supplemental record against the benchmarked records

to determine selection status.

3.15.2.3. An eligible is a “Select” if he/she outscores all “minus” benchmarks and ties or

outscores at least one of the “plus” benchmarks. Unlike evaluation boards, there is no

52 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

quota on supplemental boards. The decision tree at Figure 3.2 will be used to determine

select/non-select status.

3.15.3. Differentials. When benchmark records are not available at the required “minus”

scores, AFPC/DPSOE will go to the next available lower score categories for “minus”

benchmarks. When this occurs, the point differential (difference between the required

benchmark score and the actual benchmarks used) must be accounted for when applying the

decision tree. The differential will not exceed minus 3 points.

3.15.4. Inversion. Some degree of inversion is to be expected. Only the most extreme cases

warrant a potential rescore of the records. The enlisted supplemental decision tree outlines

those cases and directs when a rescore is allowed, subject to BP approval.

3.15.5. New Documents. New documents are not applicable in the supplemental process.

Figure 3.2. SNCO Supplemental Decision Tree

3.16. Disclosure of Board Proceedings. The list of board members will be released in

conjunction with the release of the board results (approximately 3-4 weeks following board

adjournment). At that time, board members may discuss the board process and procedures,

board organization, and the number of eligibles considered. Board members may never disclose

how board members voted, who sat on each panel, or what AFSCs they scored. In addition, they

may not keep lists or statistics from the board. Board members are also prohibited from

discussing their personal observations about the strengths and weaknesses in the records.

3.17. Summary. These evaluation board procedures were developed to give all eligible Airmen

fair and equitable consideration, not for ease of administration. While it in many ways mirrors

the officer selection board process, SNCO evaluation boards are not governed by law and are not

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 53

the sole determinant of promotion and as such bear significant differences. These procedures will

remain in effect until otherwise modified in writing.

54 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

Chapter 4

*REGULAR AIR FORCE AIRMAN PROMOTION ACTIONS

4.1. Officer Training Candidates.

4.1.1. MPS:

4.1.2. Notify Airmen they are ineligible for promotion consideration when entering Air

Force commissioning programs on or before PECD. If Airmen enter an Air Force

commissioning program after PECD but before selections are made, they will not be

considered for promotion. (T-3)

4.1.3. Promote Airmen entering the Airman Education and Commissioning Program

(AECP), Officer Training School (OTS), Nurse Enlisted Commissioning Program (NECP),

Physician Assistant (PA) or Academy of Military Science (AMS) programs as follows:

4.1.3.1. Promote Airmen in grades SrA and below to SSgt effective 1 day before their

scheduled PCS or TDY departure. (T-3)

4.1.3.2. Airmen entering AECP, OTS or NECP with a projected promotion to TSgt or

above will retain PSN and be promoted when incremented regardless of whether it occurs

before or after the Airman enters the commissioning program.

4.1.4. Promote Airmen selected for the Air Force Academy with a PSN before entry. Do not

promote Airmen with PSNs after program entry; place memorandums in their records to

show selected grade, cycle, and PSN. Prior service disenrolled Airmen receive their former

grade and DOR with the effective date as the EAD date; second year disenrolled Airmen

receive the grade determined by AFI 36-2604, Service Dates and Dates of Rank. (T-3)

4.1.5. Demote eliminated Airmen to their former grades per Chapter 6, and then promote

them to the highest grades entitled effective the day following demotions. The DOR of the

higher grades are the original DORs (AFI 36-2014, Commissioning Education). (T-3)

4.1.6. Notify Airmen promotion eligibility may be reinstated (see paragraph 4.3.) if they are

eliminated from training through no fault of their own. The training facility commander

must make a recommendation for reinstatement. (T-3)

4.1.7. Discharge Airmen selected for the Airman Scholarship and Commissioning Program

(ASCP) and enlist them into the AF Reserve. Airmen with PSNs that increment prior to

entry into ASCP will be authorized to assume the grade. Place memos with PSNs in the

records of Airmen who have PSNs that will increment after entry (listing grade and cycle).

For those who do not complete ASCP, see AFI 36-2604, Service Dates and Dates of Rank, to

determine active duty grade and DOR. (T-3)

4.1.8. Airmen selected for the Technical Degree Scholarship Program (TDSP) will enlist in

the Regular Air Force for a period of 48 months, serve in the grade of A1C while completing

the degree requirement, and receive basic pay and privileges of that grade. These Airmen are

not entitled to promotion to SrA or SrA BTZ while completing the TDSP academic phase.

After completion of the degree requirement, Airmen will attend OTS and will be promoted to

SSgt effective 1 day before departure, but no earlier than 11th day before report no later than

date. Upon graduation from OTS, Airmen will be discharged from enlisted status and

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 55

tendered a commission as a Regular officer in the United States Air Force in the grade of

second lieutenant.

4.1.8.1. Eliminees from the TDSP academic phase will choose a 4-year commission or a

2-year enlistment. 2-year enlistees entitled to a grade higher than A1C due to prior

service will require grade and service date verification to determine the appropriate grade

and DOR the Airman is entitled to. 2-year enlistees with no prior service will be

promoted to A1C with a DOR equal to the Basic Military Training start date.

4.1.9. ROTC disenrollees will serve a 2-year enlistment and will be accessed to the

appropriate grade prior to entering active duty. Airmen will receive a DOR equal to date of

entry into the ROTC program and an effective date equal to the date of EAD.

4.1.9.1. After accessed, Airmen are authorized one promotion to Amn or A1C base on

their assessed DOR per TIG requirements in paragraph 2.1. The DOR and effective

date for this one promotion is the EAD. Consecutive promotions based on the accessed

grade and DOR prior to EAD are not authorized (Airmen cannot be promoted from AB to

A1C). AFPC/DPSOE updates the one promotion via CMS. Their next promotion is based

on the TIG requirement in paragraph 2.1 or 2.2. Accessed A1Cs who receive an adjusted

DOR will be eligible for SrA after 28 months TIG, but must also serve a minimum of 12

months from EAD prior to pinning on SrA. These members will not be eligible for SrA

BTZ. This also applies to United States Air Force Academy Cadet disenrollees.

4.2. Nonrecommending, Deferring, and Withholding Promotions. The action may be

initiated and approved by the unit commander or director of civilian led units for Airman in the

grades AB - TSgt. The nonrecommendation, deferral, or withhold can be initiated by the unit

commander, but is approved by the promotion authority for Airmen in grades MSgt and SMSgt

(see paragraph 1.5.).

4.2.1. Unit Commanders:

4.2.1.1. Inform Airmen of adverse actions in writing or verbally before promotion

effective date (confirm verbal notification in writing within 5 duty days). The

notification memorandum must include reasons, dates, occurrences, and duration of the

action. If the Airman is notified verbally prior to effective date, and written notification

is followed up after effective date of promotion, include a statement confirming the

Airman was verbally notified not to assume the higher grade prior to the effective date of

promotion. For actions on those in grades SrA through SMSgt, include the affected

promotion cycle. Obtain promotion authority approval for Airmen in grades of MSgt and

SMSgt. (T-3)

4.2.1.2. Obtain the Airmen’s written acknowledgment. (T-3)

4.2.1.3. Forward the written notification to the MPS to send for file in the Airman’s

ARMS record and updates MilPDS. (T-3)

4.2.2. Nonrecommending Promotion. Nonrecommendation for promotion should be used

when an Airman’s behavior does not adhere to established standards. Promotion

reinstatement is not authorized. For promotion nonrecommendation actions/ineligibility

conditions:

56 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

4.2.2.1. Separate written nonrecommendations are not required for Airmen otherwise

ineligible according to Table 1.1. (except for Rule 8, where the ineligibility condition is

specifically “nonrecommendation for promotion”).

4.2.2.2. A1Cs and below, ineligible for promotion under Table 1.1. (except for Rule 8),

will become eligible for promotion upon completion of the ineligibility condition if

otherwise eligible and recommended by the commander.

4.2.2.3. Promotion DOR will be the date the Airman became eligible and the effective

date will be the date of written recommendation by the commander for those exceeding

TIG/TIS requirements. A retroactive promotion effective date may be requested

according to paragraph 1.14.

4.2.2.4. Nonrecommend A1Cs and below in monthly increments up to 6 months (Table

1.1, Rule 8).

4.2.2.4.1. Promotion DOR and effective date will be the anniversary day of the

original promotion date, but only if the anniversary day falls after the date the

commander recommends promotion in writing. EXAMPLE: If DOR to Amn is 9

Mar 06 and commander recommends promotion in writing 10 Mar 07 or later, then

DOR to A1C is 9 Apr 07; if commander recommends promotion in writing 8 Mar 07

or earlier, then DOR to A1C is 9 Mar 07.

4.2.2.4.2. Six-year enlistees with a contract guaranteeing A1C upon completion of

Basic Military Training and Technical Training who are nonrecommended for

promotion will have their contract voided.

4.2.2.4.3. Remove BTZ selects from a selection list and inform them they remain

ineligible until fully qualified (see paragraph 2.2.). (T-3)

4.2.2.5. Nonrecommendation for Airmen in grades SrA and above (for pin-on or testing)

only applies for one promotion cycle at a time.

4.2.2.5.1. MPS must send a copy of the nonrecommendation to AFPC/DPSOE when

the promotion authority (see paragraph 1.5.) approves the nonrecommendation for

promotion (to include testing) for a MSgt or SMSgt.

4.2.3. Deferring Promotion. Deferring a promotion delays the promotion and pay past the

original effective date to allow the commander to determine if the Airman meets acceptable

behavior or performance standards. For deferring promotion to SSgt through CMSgt:

4.2.3.1. The deferral duration is for 1 to 3 months.

4.2.3.2. Wing or equivalent level commanders may approve deferring promotion beyond

3 months to SSgt through MSgt. Equivalent level commander is the first senior rater in a

commander’s position in the Airman’s reporting chain.

4.2.3.3. The promotion authority (see paragraph 1.5.) approves deferring promotions to

SMSgt and CMSgt.

4.2.3.4. The promotion authority must make a promotion decision, in writing, upon

completion of the deferral period. DOR and effective date is the 1st day of the month

after the deferral period ends and cannot be retroactive.

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 57

4.2.3.5. If a promotion is deferred and then withheld, the DOR is the 1st day of the

month after the deferral period ended and cannot be retroactive to the what the original

DOR would had been if no deferral was taken.

4.2.4. Withholding Promotion . Commanders must be advised withholding a promotion is

not used as a punishment or inducement for an Airman to conform to acceptable standards of

performance. Withholding action is taken after promotion selection but before the effective

date of promotion. For withholding promotions:

4.2.4.1. The promotion of any Airman is withheld when he or she possesses any of the

conditions listed in Table 1.2. Written commander notifications are required for all

conditions listed in Table 1.2. Commanders will clearly state specific reasons for all

withholding actions. MPS will return memorandums not stating the specific reasons for

withholding actions to commanders and reference this paragraph.

4.2.4.2. Wing or equivalent level commanders may approve withholding promotions

longer than 1 year. Equivalent level commander is the first senior rater in a commander’s

position in the Airman’s reporting chain. The promotion authority (see paragraph 1.5.)

approves withholding promotions to SMSgt and CMSgt.

4.2.4.3. Airmen receive their original DOR; the effective date is the date the commander

terminates the withhold action and recommends promotion. See paragraph 1.15 for

corrections to effective dates.

4.2.4.4. Airmen whose promotions were withheld, and later changed to a deferral, will

receive a DOR no later than the 1st day of the third month after the original promotion

effective date. NOTE: Wing/CC or equivalent must approve deferring promotion

beyond 3 months. (T-3)

4.3. Promotion Reinstatement. This procedure only applies to Airmen removed from the

control roster or who completed Article 15 suspended reduction. Reinstatement includes

promotion testing, consideration for promotion if tests are on file, or for previous selects that

become ineligible.

4.3.1. Wing or equivalent level commander (equivalent level commander is the first senior

rater in a commander’s position in the Airman’s reporting chain) may approve:

(EXCEPTION: Reinstatement to the grades of SMSgt and CMSgt must be forwarded to the

promotion authority. (see paragraph 1.5.) (T-3)

4.3.1.1. For reinstatement requests for Airmen who were found ineligible because their

records had incomplete or wrong data, the DOR is the date of original increment and

effective date is date of reinstatement approval. Individuals may request a retroactive

promotion effective date according to paragraph 1.15.

4.3.2. Commanders:

4.3.2.1. Should initiate reinstatement requests for Airmen ineligible for promotion to

grades SSgt through CMSgt for only the most deserving cases (including Airmen who

were selects), and send reinstatement requests through the MPS for processing.

4.3.2.2. Requests for reinstatement should not be approved solely because commanders

reverse decisions that originally rendered Airmen ineligible.

58 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

4.3.3. DOR and effective date for approved promotion sequence number (PSN)

reinstatements to grades SSgt through CMSgt are the 1st day of the month following the

month the commander initiated reinstatement action if promotion increment has passed.

MPS send a copy of the reinstatement to AFPC/DPSOE providing the Airman’s name, SSN,

cycle, date commander initiated reinstatement, date reinstatement was approved, and

circumstances surrounding the reinstatement. AFPC/DPSOE will provide testing instructions

if tests were not previously administered supplemental consideration if tests are on file, or

update grade data in MilPDS if the Airman was a previous select.

4.3.4. An Airman or the Airman’s unit commander may request reinstatement for reasons

not covered above. This exception is not intended for use as a rehabilitative tool for

improved behavior. Requests should be limited to those extreme cases that warrant

reinstatement. MPS forward fully documented exception to policy requests through the

Airman’s wing commander, or the promotion authority for SMSgt and CMSgt, to

AFPC/DPSOE for final decision. All levels of command may disapprove these requests and

discontinue further processing. The DOR and effective date for approved reinstatements to

grades SSgt through CMSgt are the 1st day of the month following the month the

commander initiated reinstatement action.

4.4. Applying for Correction of Records. Airmen who believe they have suffered injustice in

their promotion consideration are encouraged to exhaust all administrative remedies prior to

applying to the Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records (AFBCMR) under the

provisions of AFI 36-2603, AFBCMR. The application for correction of military records should

be filed within 3 years after discovering the alleged error or injustice; however, the AFBCMR

may waive untimely filing in the interest of justice.

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 59

Chapter 5

THE USAF BAND ENLISTED PROMOTION AND PROPRIETY REVIEW PROCESS

5.1. Premier Band. The United States Air Force Band (The USAF Band), Joint Base

Anacostia-Bolling, DC, is the Air Force’s sole Premier Band.

5.2. Background. To support CONUS and worldwide mission requirements, The USAF Band

accesses fully qualified professional musicians. The USAF Band members are by-pass

specialists who do not enter into formal upgrade training to attain craftsman (7-skill level)

designation. The USAF Band competes with the other services' premier bands and the civilian

sector in recruiting fully qualified professional musicians. While assigned to The USAF Band,

members are deferred from rotational PCS moves. Special enlisted promotion authority is

granted only for band members assigned to the USAF Band because:

5.2.1. Recruiting fully qualified professional musicians saves training costs and time.

5.2.2. Recruiting and retaining fully qualified professional musicians to The USAF Band

requires an incentive.

5.2.3. Members are deferred from rotational PCS moves and must compete for promotion to

internal vacancies rather than external quotas.

5.3. Promotion Authority. The Commander, Air Force District of Washington (AFDW/CC) is

The USAF Band promotion authority.

5.4. Promotion Objective. The objective of The USAF Band promotion process is to fill

existing and forecasted vacancies based on authorized unit manning with the best-qualified

candidates. All assigned members who have shown potential for increased responsibility and

meet the minimum eligibility requirements will be considered for promotion.

5.4.1. Due to the highly specialized nature of positions in the USAF Band, it conducts a

separate promotion process based on internal unit vacancies. Promotion to TSgt is effective

upon the day the member first reports for duty with The USAF Band and requires the

approval of the promotion authority or its designated representative. There are no TIS or

TIG requirements.

5.4.2. Promotion to the grades of MSgt, SMSgt, and CMSgt are made one grade at a time to

an existing vacancy. The number of personnel selected for promotion is based on existing

and forecasted vacancies during the promotion cycle under consideration. All selects not

promoted prior to the end of the promotion cycle will be promoted the first day of the

following month.

5.5. The USAF Band Promotion Cycle. The PECD for all cycles is 31 March. Promotion

testing for The USAF Band members will be conducted during normal scheduled Air Force

promotion testing cycles. The promotion board will meet in the month of June and evaluate the

selection records for all eligible members for MSgt, SMSgt and CMSgt. Promotion dates begin

on 1 August and end on 31 July of the following year. AFDW/A1, Director of Personnel, will

provide eligible members a copy of the promotion fact sheet.

5.6. Promotion Quotas. The USAF Band promotion quotas for each grade are determined by

AFDW/A1 based on existing and forecasted vacancies during the promotion cycle as of 31 May.

60 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

A vacancy is defined as an existing unfilled authorization. A forecasted vacancy is defined as an

authorization which will become unfilled as a result of retirement, separation, PCS, etc., during

the promotion cycle. Unforecasted vacancies which occur after 31 May are not added to the

promotion quota.

5.7. Eligibility Requirements. To be eligible for promotion under this authority, members

must possess Control Air Force Specialty Code (CAFSC) and Duty Air Force Specialty Code

(DAFSC) 3N2X1. To be eligible for the next higher grade, members of The USAF Band must

meet minimum time in service and time in grade requirements (see Table 5.1).

5.7.1. Eligibility for PFE/USAFSE Testing. Due to the variation between Air Force PECDs

and The USAF Band PECDs, different criteria must be used to determine eligibility to test.

To be eligible to test for the next higher grade, members of The USAF Band must meet the

eligibility requirements in Table 5.1 and must not be declared ineligible on the basis of

Table 5.2.

5.8. Deferring, Withholding and NonRecommending Promotions. Band members must be

recommended for promotion by The USAF Band Commander. The commander will forward the

eligibility/ineligibility roster to the AFDW/A1 staff no later than 15 April. See paragraph 4.2.

for nonrecommending, deferring, and withholding promotions.

5.9. Data Collection and Verification. Upon PECD, the AFDW A1 staff will initiate actions to

begin the promotion consideration process.

5.9.1. By 15 April, each eligible member should verify their Promotion Data Verification

Brief (DVB) by logging into vMPF on the AFPC web page. Members must identify any

discrepancies on the DVB to their servicing MPS or Base Education Office.

5.10. The Promotion Board . The promotion board is an essential element in The USAF Band

promotion process. Selection records are evaluated based on the whole person concept with a

maximum board score of 450 points. All eligible members will have their selection record

reviewed and scored by the promotion board.

5.10.1. The promotion board will be chaired by a General Officer or Brigadier General

Select (if a General Officer is unavailable, a colonel may chair the promotion board). The

three voting members of the promotion board will be a colonel from a non band AFSC, a

CMSgt from a non band AFSC and a CMSgt band manager who is not and has not been

assigned as a member of The USAF Band. The promotion board members will be nominated

by the AFDW A1 staff and appointed by the promotion authority. No board members will

serve on consecutive boards and no member assigned to The USAF Band will be appointed

to the promotion board.

5.11. Determining Selects, Promotion Sequence Numbers and Establishing Dates of

Rank. Promotion selections are based on the promotion quota (see paragraph 5.6). AFDW/A1

will release promotion sequence numbers. Selects are promoted in sequence to the first available

vacancies at the appropriate grade until all selects are promoted. Unfilled vacancies are carried

over to the next promotion cycle.

5.11.1. Promotion Dates of Rank. When vacancies occur on the first day of the month,

promotions are made on that day. When vacancies occur after the first day of the month,

promotions are made on the first day of the following month.

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 61

5.12. Selection List. The promotion selection list is prepared by the AFDW staff and routed to

the promotion authority for final approval.

5.13. Supplemental Promotions. Current Air Force policy will be used when determining

supplemental consideration. Each individual must submit a request for supplemental

consideration in writing to AFDW A1.

5.13.1. The three voting members of the supplemental promotion board will consist of the

Chief Enlisted Force Policy (HQ USAF/A1PPE), a Colonel and another CMSgt. The AFDW

A1 will appoint and convene the panel.

5.14. Promotion Propriety Review. As stated in paragraph 5.2, members of The USAF Band

are fully qualified professional musicians and are granted the privilege of promotion under the

authority of this instruction while assigned to The USAF Band. In order to be assigned to The

USAF Band, each member underwent an extensive audition and interview process. Should the

member fail to continue to meet these high standards, they may be involuntarily removed from

the organization. Any member determined by the commander to have failed to maintain The

UASF Band standards can voluntarily apply for retraining into a different Air Force Specialty.

Any member may also request a voluntary reassignment. A grade determination will be

conducted through the Promotion Propriety Review Board (see paragraph 5.14.2) for members

being reassigned voluntarily or involuntarily from The USAF Band. Members voluntarily or

involuntarily released from the band will be reclassified in accordance with AFI 36-2101,

Classifying Military Personnel (Officers and Enlisted).

5.14.1. Statement of Understanding. Members will be required to sign the Statement of

Understanding (see Attachment 2) as part of their in-processing when first assigned to The

USAF Band. This will be filed in the member's Automated Records Management System

(ARMS).

5.14.2. Promotion Propriety Review Board. The function of the Promotion Propriety

Review Board is to perform a grade propriety review (GPR) on enlisted members of The

USAF Band who will be reassigned to a new career field or to a regional band. Members

assigned to a new career field will be assigned in accordance with AFI 36-2101, Classifying

Military Personnel (Officers and Enlisted). The assessment process seeks to determine the

grade and/or date of rank (DOR) appropriate to the member upon entry into the new career

field or change of assignment.

5.14.2.1. Promotion Propriety Review Board Members. For The USAF Band, the

AFDW/CV (or their appointed colonel designate), The USAF Band Commander and

AFDW/CCC (or their appointed CMSgt designate) will comprise the Promotion

Propriety Review Board. A representative from the AFDW/A1 staff will serve as the

facilitator and a member from The USAF Band will serve as the technical representative.

5.14.2.2. Review Package. AFDW/A1 staff will prepare a review package, to be used by

the Promotion Propriety Review Board, as the basis for its assessment. As a minimum,

the review package should contain data comparing the member under review to the

USAF at large and the new career field (average Air Force time-in-grade and time-in-

service phase points), Individual Data Review RIP, Security Clearance Eligibility

Record, Assignment Notification, PCS orders to The USAF Band, copies of all

performance reports, copies of all award citations and a copy of the signed “Statement of

62 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

Understanding.” NOTE: The member under review may submit, in writing, their own

assessment to the AFDW/A1 staff for inclusion in the review package. This written

assessment should address the factors in the board’s decision.

5.14.2.3. The senior board member will forward the board’s recommendation to the

AFDW/A1, who will forward it to the band career field manager (SAF/PAR) for

coordination no later than 90 days prior to the member’s departure for the new

assignment. In turn, SAF/PAR will forward the board’s recommendation to HQ

USAF/A1PPE for final determination and approval. HQ USAF/A1PPE will inform the

AFDW/A1 of its decision. The USAF Band Commander may verbally inform the

member of the board’s recommendation upon completion of the propriety review.

5.14.3. The AFDW/A1 will notify The USAF Band Commander of the final determination

made by HQ USAF/A1PPE. The commander will immediately notify the member in writing

of the GPR determination by memorandum. The commander will forward a copy of the

notification memorandum to the AFDW A1 staff for inclusion in the member’s ARMS. The

AFDW/A1 staff will ensure demotion/date of rank adjustment orders are completed and

distributed appropriately (i.e., gaining MPS, member, AFPC/DPSOE). Grade and DOR

changes take effect on the day the member arrives at their new duty station (Date Arrived

Station).

5.14.4. GPR Objective. The GPR will be based on the whole person concept. As a

minimum, the Promotion Propriety Review Board should consider the following factors:

5.14.4.1. Has the member received the proper training to serve in the new career field at

the rank which they presently hold?

5.14.4.2. Does the member have the kinds of duty experiences at the grade level

commensurate with the new career field position?

5.14.4.3. Has the member demonstrated the leadership and management skills required

in the new career field?

5.14.4.4. Has the member achieved the average TIS and TIG, both in the new career

field and in the Air Force at large, to avoid creating an unfair promotion competition

advantage over their new career field peers? NOTE: Members being assigned to a new

career field will not retain any grade for which they do not meet the minimum Air Force

TIS requirements in Table 2.1 or be given DOR earlier than possible under those TIS

requirements.

5.14.5. GPR Board Recommendations. The Promotion Propriety Review Board may make

any of the following recommendations:

5.14.5.1. Allow the member to retain their current rank and time in grade.

5.14.5.2. Allow the member to retain their current rank, but have their DOR adjusted in

accordance with determinations made with respect to paragraph 5.14.4. NOTE: A

member’s downward-adjusted DOR may extend to any period including present date of

rank.

5.14.5.3. Demote to a rank and DOR commensurate to members with similar TIS in the

new career field or the Air Force at large. The DOR for the grade to which demoted may

be either the average date of rank held by other Airmen in that grade in the new career

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 63

field or the DOR actually held if previously promoted to the grade under other Air Force

promotion systems. NOTE: A member cannot be demoted below a grade previously

earned under the Air Force promotion system governing the gaining career field.

5.14.6. GPR Resulting Administrative Actions. AFDW/A1 staff notifies the local FSS to

publish any required demotion/DOR adjustment guidance for the gaining MPS, and

AFPC/DPSOE to project DOR.

Table 5.1. Minimum Eligibility Requirements for The USAF Band Promotion

promotion

is to the

grade of

and the time in

current grade

computed on the first

day of the month

before the month

promotions are made

and the TAFMS date

on the first day of the

last month of the

promotion cycle

then

TSgt

N/A

DAS

the Airman is eligible for

promotion if recommended,

in writing by the promotion

authority

MSgt

24 months

6 years

SMSgt

(see note)

20 months

10 years

CMSgt

(see note)

21 months

14 years

NOTE:

SNCO Academy (correspondence or in-residence) and Associates Degree from Community College

of the Air Force (CCAF) must be completed prior to PECD for promotion eligibility.

Table 5.2. Determining Ineligibility for PFE/USAFSE Testing

The Airman is ineligible to test for promotion during a particular cycle when he or she:

Does not meet minimum Time In Service requirement by the first day of the last month of the

promotion cycle.

Does not meet minimum Time In Grade requirement by the first day of the month before the

month promotions are made.

Has a mandatory date of separation (DOS), high year of tenure (HYT), or an approved

retirement before the first day of the month that promotions are incremented in that cycle (1

August).

Has declined promotion consideration/testing and has an AF Form 1566, WAPS Test

Verification, on file to that effect.

Is denied or not selected for reenlistment.

Has declined to attend appropriate resident PME.

Non-recommended by commander or has other quality factor rendering them ineligible.

64 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

Chapter 6

ADMINISTRATIVE DEMOTION OF ACTIVE DUTY AIRMEN

6.1. Demotions. Do not use administrative demotions when it is more appropriate to take

actions specified by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).

6.1.l. The home station unit commander recommends demotion action to the demotion authority

(paragraph 6.2). Deployed commanders must send demotion actions to the home station unit

commander for action. The home station unit commander will complete coordination with the

appropriate demotion authority. (T-0).

6.1.2. Do not demote Airmen who have separated.

6.1.3. Begin administrative demotion for action during the term of enlistment when the

reason for the action occurred, except when the commander is not aware of the facts and

circumstances until after that term of enlistment expires.

6.1.4. If the commander has sufficient reason to initiate demotion action, use the entire

military record in deciding whether demotion is appropriate.

6.1.5. When appropriate, give Airmen an opportunity to overcome their deficiencies before

demotion action is initiated. Commanders should maintain supporting documentation of all

rehabilitation and probationary actions.

6.1.6. Do not suspend administrative demotions. The demotion authority, with

administrative jurisdiction, can restore the individual’s original grade. If the demotion

authority restores the Airman’s original grade following the demotion, he or she must do so

sometime between 3 months and 6 months after the effective date of the demotion.

6.1.6.1. Restoring grade should be an uncommon occurrence. The effective date and the

date of rank (DOR) are the date on which the demotion authority approves restoration in

writing.

6.1.6.2. Do not revoke demotion orders. File the demotion order in the Airman’s ARMS

record along with the memorandum approving the restoration. Create a CMS case and

include restoration package/memorandum and refer the case to AFPC/DPSOE. (T-0).

6.1.6.3. Initiating restoration beyond 6 months after the effective date of demotion will

require an exception to policy. This exception is not intended for use as a rehabilitative

tool for improved behavior. Requests should be limited to those extreme cases that

warrant restoration. MPS forward fully documented exception to policy requests initiated

by the demotion authority through the Airman’s wing commander with coordination from

JA (if they are not the demotion authority) to AFPC/DPSOE for final decision by

AF/A1P. All levels of command may disapprove these requests and discontinue further

processing. (T-1).

6.2. Who Can Demote.

6.2.1. The group commander, or equivalent level commander, may demote MSgts and

below. Equivalent level commander is defined as a senior Air Force officer in the grade of

colonel. EXAMPLE: An Air Force officer in charge of an Air Force Element or a

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 65

commander above the squadron level. NOTE: Higher levels of command may also demote,

but group commander is the lowest level of authority.

6.2.2. The MAJCOM commander, FOA commander and DRU commander, may demote

those in the grades of SMSgt and CMSgt. This demotion authority may be delegated to the

MAJCOM vice commander, Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower, Personnel and Services,

Numbered Air Force (NAF), or equivalent level commanders, but may not be further

delegated.

6.2.3. The appellate authority is the next higher level commander and handles demotion

appeals.

6.2.4. The Secretary of the Air Force (SECAF) may demote to significantly reduce strength,

grade levels, or both.

6.3. Reasons to Demote.

6.3.1. Student Status Termination. Airmen are demoted to their former grade when their

student status ends if they were promoted in anticipation of completing additional training, or

to obtain a commission.

6.3.1.1. Demote officer trainees or pipeline students to their former grade if they are

eliminated from training.

6.3.1.2. Delay the demotion when an Airman would lose authorization to ship household

goods, move dependents, or both, until he or she arrives at the new duty location

(permanent change of station [PCS]). The gaining commander completes demotion

action using the effective date as the date when the Airman arrives at the new duty

location.

6.3.1.3. Demote Airmen attending temporary duty (TDY) Air Force schools to their

former grade when the school commandant informs the base that their student status is

terminated.

6.3.2. If a member is promoted to SSgt, TSgt, or SMSgt with an approved EPME waiver and

later is dismissed for cause, declines DL or in residence PME.

6.3.3. Demotion Based on Skill Levels. Demote Airmen, when appropriate, to a grade that

corresponds to their skill level.

6.3.3.1. Demote Airmen, including Airmen promoted with a Primary Air Force Specialty

Code (PAFSC) waiver, if they cannot achieve a skill level appropriate to their grade.

6.3.3.2. Demote Airmen to the highest possible grade allowed for the skills they have if

their Air Force specialty (AFS) skill level is downgraded for substandard performance.

Use the date their skill level was reduced as the effective date of demotion.

6.3.4. Failure to fulfill Responsibilities. Airmen may be demoted for failing to fulfill

Airman, noncommissioned officer (NCO), or senior noncommissioned officer (SNCO)

responsibilities under AFI 36-2618, The Enlisted Force Structure, Chapters 3 through 5.

6.3.5. Failure to Keep Fit. Airmen may be demoted for failing to maintain or demonstrate

the ability and willingness to attain physical standards, according to AFI 36-2905, Fitness

Program.

66 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

6.3.6. Failure to Perform. Demote Airmen under the policies of the Personnel Support

Division (AFDW/A1K), and this instruction, if they do not perform at USAF or USAF Space

Command bands standards (applies to AFSC 3N2X1).

6.3.7. Voluntary Reassignment or Reclassification. Demote Airmen under the policies and

procedures established by AFDW/A1P if they volunteer for reassignment or reclassification

out of AFSC 3N2X1.

6.4. How to Process a Demotion.

6.4.1. The Unit Commander:

6.4.1.1. Signs the notification memorandum informing the Airman of intent to demote.

6.4.1.2. Cites this instruction, the specific paragraph, demotion authority if other than

initiating commander, the recommended grade for demotion, the specific reasons for

demotion, and provides a summary of the facts.

6.4.1.3. Ensures the following information is included in the notification memorandum:

6.4.1.3.1. “I (concur)(do not concur) with the proposed demotion; I (will or have)

(will not or have not) (submit or submitted) written materials on my behalf. I

(request)(waive) a personal hearing before the initiating commander. I (have)(have

not) consulted with counsel.”

6.4.1.4. Advises the Airman that he or she may seek legal counsel. The unit commander

provides the name and number of the local Area Defense Counsel who can assist with

written and oral statements.

6.4.1.5. Informs the Airman (if eligible) of the right to apply for retirement in lieu of a

demotion, effective no later than the 1st day of the 4th month following the initial

notification of demotion, as follows:

6.4.1.5.1. Within 3 working days of Airman’s acknowledgement of demotion

memorandum, if eligible to retire, indicate the member understands the option to

apply for retirement in lieu of demotion. Also indicate whether Airman is applying

for retirement in lieu of demotion.

6.4.1.5.2. Member must have completed at least 20 years of active duty service by

the 1st day of the 4th month after the initial notification date of demotion.

6.4.1.5.3. Member must apply for retirement within 3 working days of receipt of

demotion notification memorandum, or the demotion will take effect as the date the

demotion authority approved the demotion. The unit commander may approve, in

writing, an extension of time to submit the retirement application. See paragraph 6.6.

and contact AFPC/DPSOR for additional instructions on applying for and processing

an application for retirement in lieu of demotion.

6.4.1.6. Makes sure the Airman endorses the demotion when he or she receives it. The

Airman must agree or disagree within 3 working days.

6.4.1.7. Informs the Airman that if he or she does not agree, statements may be

presented, orally or written, within 3 work days after receiving this. The unit commander

may approve extensions, in writing.

AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014 67

6.4.2. The Initiating Commander:

6.4.2.1. After receiving the Airman's acknowledgment, the commander decides whether

or not to terminate the demotion action or continue processing it.

6.4.2.2. If the commander terminates the demotion process, he or she needs only to

inform the Airman.

6.4.2.3. If the commander decides to continue processing the demotion action, he or she

notifies the affected Airman of the decision in writing. The commander summarizes the

written or oral statements, and sends the entire case file to the servicing MPS for

processing.

6.4.3. Demotion Authority:

6.4.3.1. The demotion authority can take additional grade reductions other than the

initiating commander's recommendation. Request a written legal review from the

servicing staff judge advocate (SJA) before deciding the demotion. Return the entire case

file to the Airman's servicing MPS.

6.4.4. MPS:

6.4.4.1. The MPS informs the Airman's unit commander, in writing, of the demotion

decision and gets the Airman's written acknowledgment. (T-3)

6.4.5. The Commander:

6.4.5.1. Informs the Airman that his or her current grade is retained if the demotion is not

approved. (T-3)

6.4.5.2. Informs the Airman of the grade to which he or she is demoted, including the

DOR and the effective date. (T-3)

6.4.5.3. Informs the Airman that he or she must acknowledge the decision within 3

working days. (T-3)

6.4.5.4. Informs the Airman that he or she can appeal the demotion to the appellate

authority within 3 working days. (T-3)

6.4.6. The Airman:

6.4.6.1. Acknowledges receipt by endorsing the document.

6.4.6.2. Includes the date.

6.4.6.3. Indicates if he or she will appeal the decision.

6.5. How to Process an Appeal. The MPS forwards the case to the demotion authority for

review. The demotion authority can reverse the previous decision and restore the Airman’s

original grade, or forward the case to the appellate authority without comment. If the appellate

authority approves the appeal, the appellate authority directs the MPS to restore the Airman’s

previous grade and revoke demotion orders.

6.6. How to Apply for Retirement. An Airman eligible for voluntary retirement as set out in

paragraph 6.4.1.5.2 can elect to “retire in lieu of demotion.” The requested effective date of

retirement will be no later than the 1st day of the 4th month following the date the Airman

received the initial demotion notification. An application to retire in lieu of demotion must be

68 AFI36-2502 12 DECEMBER 2014

processed to Secretary of the Air Force Personnel Council (SAFPC) for final

approval/disapproval.

6.6.1. An application to retire in lieu of demotion is not submitted through vMPF. Airmen

apply to retire in lieu of demotion using a hardcopy AF 1160. When an Airman submits an

AF Form 1160 to retire in lieu of demotion, all demotion action stops until SAFPC acts on

the retirement application. Contact AFPC/DPSOR for additional instructions on applying for

and processing retirement in lieu of demotion application..

6.6.2. The demotion process is terminated if SAFPC approves the retirement in lieu of

application. If SAFPC disapproves the retirement in lieu of application, the demotion

process continues.

6.7. Grades to Demote Airmen.

6.7.1. Demote a SrA or higher no lower than Airman First Class (A1C). EXCEPTION:

Airmen under paragraph 6.3.1. can be demoted to the grade of AB.

6.7.2. Demote an A1C no lower than Amn.

6.7.3. Demote an Amn to AB.

6.7.4. Demote by three or more grades only when no reasonable hope exists that the Airman

will ever show the proficiency, leadership, or fitness that earned the initial promotion.

6.8. How to Determine the DOR.

6.8.1. DOR for Airmen demoted under paragraph 6.3.1. is the first date served in reduced

grade (i.e., original date of rank).

6.8.2. DOR for Airmen who are demoted under paragraph 6.3.2 is the original date of rank

and the effective date is the date the commander approves the demotion.

6.8.3. DOR for Airmen demoted under paragraphs 6.3.3. through 6.3.5. is the effective date

of the demotion action (i.e., the date the demotion authority approves the demotion).

6.8.4. AFDW/A1P determines the DOR for Airmen demoted under paragraphs 6.3.6. and

6.3.7.

6.9. When to Announce and Revoke Demotions.

6.9.1. Publishing Orders. The MPS publishes orders after the demotion authority (not the

appellate authority) approves the demotion, but not earlier than 4 working days after the

Airman acknowledges it. Forward one copy of each demotion order under this instruction to

AFPC/DPSOE.

6.9.2. What to do if the Airman is Eligible to Retire in Lieu of Demotion. Publish orders

only if the Airman does not submit an application for retirement within 3 working days

following acknowledgment (not including the date of acknowledgment).

6.9.2.1. Stop demotion proceedings for an Airman who applies for retirement pending

the outcome of the application.

6.9.2.2. If SAFPC turns down the application for retirement in lieu of demo