As you
prepare to take the Aviation Selection Test Battery (ASTB-E) Officer Aptitude
Rating (OAR) exam, this article will give you a glimpse ahead to the things
you’ll need to know to prepare for a successful testing experience. As you read
on, you’ll see details on exam registration, testing fees, things to bring with
you on testing day, and items that aren’t permitted. Plus, you’ll see an
overview of the content you can expect to be included on the exam itself.
What is the OAR Exam?
The ASTB-E exam is the main standard test used by branches of the United States military to select aviation officer program candidates. Branches that use the test include the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Coast Guard. The OAR exam is used to as part of the selection process for certain non-aviation officer candidates.
How Do I Register for the OAR Exam?
The best way to register for the exam is to contact your local appropriate military recruiting office. That office will give you more information and can assist you in completing your exam registration.
How Much Does the OAR Cost?
There is no testing fee associated with the ASTB-E OAR exam.
Where and When Can I take the OAR Exam?
There are more than 250 certified testing centers available for you to complete your exam at. Once you register for the exam, you’ll receive more information on available testing times and locations.
You should plan on arriving well in advance of your scheduled testing time to ensure that you’re in place and ready to begin once your exam time commences. To be safe, you should plan on arriving 30 minutes prior to your scheduled time.
How Long is the OAR?
You’ll have up to two hours to complete the ASTB-E OAR exam.
What Should I Bring?
- You’ll want to have one form of government-issued ID with you AND your Social Security card..
- Acceptable examples of IDs include a driver’s licens, a passport, or a military ID.
- NOTE: There must be an exact match in the way your full name appears between your registration materials and your forms of ID that you bring with you on testing day.
What Not to Bring:
- Electronics of any type, including phones, PDAs, cameras, etc.
- Personal belongings such as bags
- Calculators, since none of the items on the test will require a calculator
How Many Questions are on the OAR?
This is a computer-based test, consisting of 80 questions.
What are the Content Subtests?
The ASTB-E OAR exam is made up of three content subtests. Here’s an overview of each of these subtests.
Subtest 1: Math Skills Test (MST)
- This section includes a total of 30 math-related questions. You’ll have 40 minutes to complete this portion of the exam.
- This part of the test will assess your knowledge in solving equations by using common mathematical processes. You’ll also be tested on your ability to understand and use standard concepts in the areas of algebra, data analysis, geometry and arithmetic. In the process, you can expect to solve for fractions, variables, exponents and roots. You’ll also be asked to calculate areas, angles and perimeters of various geometric shapes. Through the course of taking the Math Skills section of the test, you’ll complete both word problems and solve equations.
Subtest 2: Reading Comprehension Test (RCT)
- The Reading Comprehension portion of the test consists of 20 questions. The testing time allotment for this section of the test is 30 minutes.
- During this section, you’ll read passages of written text, and then pull pieces of requested information from them. You’ll also be asked to come to logical conclusions based on your analysis of written information.
Subtest 3: Mechanical Comprehension Test (MCT)
- The Mechanical Comprehension section of the ASTB-E OAR exam is made up of 30 test items. You’ll have 15 minutes to complete this portion of the exam.
- During this portion of the test, you’ll be assessed on your understanding and perception of the nature of physical relationships. In addition, you’ll also be asked to look at mechanical standards and then solve practical, real-world problems. In general, the items in this section would be similar to the curriculum in a beginning-level high school physics course, including items covering liquids and gases, along with questions about volume, velocity and pressure. In addition, questions about engine performance may also be included, with items dealing with principles such as weight distribution, pulleys and fulcrums, electricity, gears and more.
- Calculating Your Passing Score: The score needed to pass can vary from test to test. Your score will be computed in comparison with your peers who take the same exam. You’ll receive your exam scores once you complete your testing period.
How Can I Prepare for the OAR Test?
We believe that different learning styles require different tools for success. We have compiled a list of the best study guides, flashcards, and practice tests that we’ve found on the market. Some of these guides have review videos, for you visual learners out there. Others have practice tests, which have been proven to increase student scores by a whole letter grade (in some cases more than that)!