Predicting Success in the AFROTC Scholarship Program

Abstract

Abstract : Research was conducted to improve applicant selection procedures in the AFROTC scholarship program. The objectives were to document predictive relationships, if any, between student aptitude measures, academic major, institutional selectivity, and eventual completion of the scholarship program. The analysis included records of student performance for all Air Force Reserve Officers' Training Corps (AFROTC) participants during FY 71 through FY 75 (N = 23,000). Results indicated that success in the program could be forecast with prior knowledge of: (a) applicant scores on the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT)=OQ composite and (b) the intended academic major (science and engineering versus other). A significant degree of predictive accuracy was achieved for each of the 4-year, 3-year, and 2-year programs. The effects of additional information based on the AFOQT (Pilot and Navigator composites) and institutional selectivity was found to be non-essential for predicting ROTC training outcomes although the usefulness of the rated training composites was again documented for undergraduate pilot and navigator training. Specifications were discussed to developing a dual selection system appropriate for both pre- and post-entry training programs.