Everything You Need to Know About the SIFT Exam

The Selection Instrument for Flight Training (SIFT) exam is an essential step for individuals pursuing a career in the U.S. military as a pilot. Whether you’re aiming to be a pilot in the U.S. Army, Navy, or Air Force, passing the SIFT exam is a crucial part of your application process. This exam assesses your cognitive and problem-solving skills to determine your ability to perform well in flight school.

For aspiring military pilots, understanding the format and content of the SIFT exam is essential for effective preparation. In this article, we’ll break down the different components of the SIFT exam, provide tips on how to prepare, and explore the best resources to help you succeed.

Flight Training

What Is the SIFT Exam?

The SIFT exam is designed to evaluate your cognitive abilities and potential for success in military flight training. It focuses on key areas that are critical for pilots, including spatial orientation, mechanical comprehension, and general aviation knowledge. The exam’s main objective is to assess whether an individual has the intellectual capabilities necessary to handle the complex responsibilities of flying military aircraft.

It is important to note that the SIFT is just one part of the entire selection process for military pilots. Along with physical tests, interviews, and medical exams, your SIFT score will determine whether you are eligible for flight school.

SIFT Exam Structure

The SIFT exam is composed of several subtests that evaluate a range of skills. These include:

  1. Aviation and Nautical Information Test (ANIT):
     This section assesses your general knowledge of aviation principles, such as aircraft types, flight maneuvers, and navigation.

  2. Army Aviation Selection Test Battery (AASB):
     This subtest examines your ability to visualize spatial relationships and think three-dimensionally. It includes questions on the relative motion of objects and understanding aircraft orientation.

  3. Reading Comprehension:
     This section tests your ability to understand written material. You’ll be asked to read passages and answer questions about their content.

  4. Math Skills:
     Basic math skills are crucial for a pilot. This section tests your ability to solve simple equations and perform calculations involving percentages, ratios, and measurements.

  5. Mechanical Comprehension:
     This section evaluates your understanding of mechanical principles and how things work. You’ll be tested on your ability to understand how various machines and systems operate.

  6. Spatial Ability:
    This is the most challenging section for many candidates. It tests your ability to mentally manipulate shapes and objects in space, a vital skill for any pilot navigating through three-dimensional environments.

Preparation Tips for the SIFT Exam

To perform well on the SIFT exam, preparation is key. Here are some helpful tips to ensure you’re ready for test day:

  1. Familiarize Yourself with the Test Format:
     Understanding the structure and timing of each section will help you manage your time effectively during the exam. Take note of the number of questions in each section and practice answering them under timed conditions.

  2. Use a Practice Test:
     The best way to prepare for the SIFT exam is by taking a SIFT practice test. This will give you a feel for the types of questions you’ll encounter and help you identify areas where you need to improve.

  3. Study the Key Topics:
     Focus on areas like mechanical comprehension, reading comprehension, and spatial ability. Review basic aviation terminology and principles, as well as general math concepts.

  4. Review Your Weak Areas:
     After taking a practice test, review the sections where you scored lower and focus on improving those areas. For instance, if spatial ability is a weak point, practice with 3D puzzles or apps designed to enhance visual-spatial skills.

  5. Stay Calm and Focused:
    The SIFT exam can be mentally challenging, but staying calm and focused during the test will help you think clearly. Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, to help calm your nerves on exam day.

SIFT Test

How the SIFT Exam Is Scored

The SIFT exam is scored on a scale of 1 to 9, with a passing score of 40 or higher. Your score is calculated based on the accuracy of your answers, with the highest marks given to those who demonstrate excellent mechanical and spatial understanding. Each branch of the military may have specific scoring requirements, so it’s important to check the exact passing scores for your branch of service.

Resources for SIFT Exam Preparation

There are several resources available to help you prepare for the SIFT exam:

  1. Online Study Guides:
     Visit some websites for detailed practice questions, explanations, and exam prep tips. You can also explore other useful resources, such as the TBAS practice test and the FAA practice test exam, to further enhance your preparation.

  2. Mobile Apps:
    There are also several mobile apps available for practicing spatial and mechanical comprehension. These apps allow you to practice on-the-go and improve your visual-spatial and problem-solving skills.

Selection Instrument for Flight Training

Conclusion

The SIFT exam is a crucial step in your journey to becoming a military pilot. By understanding the exam structure and taking the necessary steps to prepare, you can significantly increase your chances of success. Use practice tests, study guides, and other resources to hone your skills and improve your performance on test day.

With the right preparation, you can confidently approach the SIFT exam and take one step closer to achieving your dream of becoming a military pilot.