I am currently a MK3 and looking to swap rates. Do I have to get a release from my current rate before I could go to MST A school? Any advice from anyone that has went through this before.

You may not have to go to MST "A" School.

mstkb is a member on these boards who lateraled from MK to MST.

He was an MK3 at a STA, a PSU, and then a MSO until he submitted for a lateral.

He got all of his practical factors (EPQs) for MST signed off, submitted his Request Letter, got a Command Endorsement, and his lateral to MST3 was completed. There may be other steps involved I don't know of.

Ken is an MSTC now.

Suggest you look up the "change in rating" process in the PERSMAN, or the RPM if you're a reservist.

I have seen this exact same scenario with an MK3 who lateraled over to MST3 by doing all the pracs. If you are at an MSO it will definitely help you out. Since this is not the first or second time for this type of move, it may be easier than you think.

nekron99-

Its not in the PERSMAN or RPM. To lateral to MST and keep the same rank, some very specific things have to occur that arn't outlined in either manual.

zach7777-

You need to get ahold of MSTCM Hooker, who is the MST RFM (Rating Force Manager). He can answer all your questions and point you in the right direction.

Good Luck!!

MK1

If I remember correctly there was a recent solicitation for members to lateral to MST. I think it has ended but its possible they didnt get as many applicants and they had hoped. Good luck to you!

there really isn't a set way in how to do it. but mstcm hooker might be able to get you some outlines. i know for me i got four core "m" quals. i followed about four different lateral packages with some strong recommendations. but it didn't work in my favor. good luck.