[Bechorg]

I just got done with my second French DLPT in which I declined in score from a 2+/2 to a...wait for it... 2+/1+. That means I get paid zilch for the next six months in hopes I can get the listening back up. I am that guy that checked the block on the last test and got complacent. Don't be me.

Don't let your language slip. I thought I was good and didn't put in any extra studying outside of school, and my listening score reflected that. Guys complain about the methodology of the test, whatever man, your score is a direct reflection of the effort that you put into it.

As far as I know going forward to get a 1/1 NCOER you will need a 1+/1+. Promotions will soon be tied to your language score. This means that you need to put in optimal effort during the Q and establish a strong base that you can improve upon, not maintain, throughout your career.

3/3 is achievable, and 3 in my class of 8 got there this year. The Groups are now putting money into their language lab and annual language training for everyone, and you need to take advantage of that and bring home some extra cheddar for mama to spend at the mall. In my opinion this is a welcome change and getting back to the roots in this way is a great step into the future. We are supposed to be language and cultural experts in our regions. 1/1 is a pitiful standard to set, but they had to start somewhere.

I will make an estimation that in five years, with the current slowed op tempo and focus on language, the average score for an SF operator will be 2/2. The change will only be brought on by it being tied to promotions and available time to commit to it. So I suggest you get ahead of the curve and put in the time!