Would HRC promotions only promote a certain amount of eligible Soldiers instead of just raising points?

2023-03-29T20:49:58-04:00

This last by name cut-off list, I made points but was not on the list. My unit S-1 is saying its because too many 11B would be promoted at the published scores. Im wondering if this is a normal occurrence over just raising the cut-off scores to reflect the number of promotions targeted?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2023 9:03 PM

2023-03-29T21:03:33-04:00

Where were you on the OML? If HRC needed X number of 11Bs but Y number of 11Bs were eligible based on Cut Off...if Y is greater than X, then Z is the difference. And yes, it's a normal occurrence

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2023 9:45 PM

2023-03-29T21:45:31-04:00

It's more of an art than a science.
The cutoff for your list is based on projected losses in the next grade of your MOS. Projected losses are those promoting out, reclassing out, or getting out.
But they are projections, not an exact number. As they get to the exact number each month, that's exactly how many than can really promote that month.
When the next grade is overstrength, then the cutoff points are maxed out, but here's the problem with 11B E5: if you are an 11B E4 with a Ranger tab, you are granted max points plus 1, guaranteeing promotion even when the cutoff is maxed.
Moral of the story: just go to Ranger School.

Response by CSM William Everroad made Mar 30 at 2023 8:23 AM

2023-03-30T08:23:34-04:00

MSG Private RallyPoint Member and SGM Private RallyPoint Member are both correct in their responses.

I would only add that your goal should always be to ignore the cutoff and aim for top 5%. This will serve you well in later promotions as you learn what experiences and PME are expected as you rise through the ranks.If you continually shoot for the cutoff, you will get beat out by Soldiers going beyond.

It sounds "unfair" because the many Soldiers meet the minimum standards and do a great job, but if you were in the big chair and have only 3 slots to promote, would you take the 3 with maxed ACFT, expert qualification, and college credits or take a chance on the ones near the cutoff?

The cutoff represents where they will definitely stop considering (this slating round) based on projected vacancies. If they overestimate, some that make the cutoff will not be considered. Best course of action is move up the OML.