What selection criteria do the boards use?
Promotion boards recommend on either a best qualified or fully qualified basis as set forth in law and directed in the precept. Each board develops its own overall standards and selection criteria. The degree of significance a board assigns to each of the many factors it considers may vary according to the grade and type of selection the board is making. A board selecting officers for lieutenant may emphasize different factors than would a captain continuation board. Whether convened on a “fully qualified” or a “best qualified” basis, selection boards are required to consider four basic criteria: performance evaluations, professionalism, leadership and education. In addition, per 14 U.S.C. 254, selection boards must consider the efficiency of the Coast Guard. Based on the above factors, each board develops its own overall selection criteria. The degree of significance a board assigns to each of the many factors it considers may vary according to the grade and type of selection the boar
