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My Coast Guard
Commentary | March 31, 2021

Updated study guide for Service Wide Exam

By Janki Patel, MyCG Writer

Preparing for the  May  2021 Service Wide Exam (SWE) will come with a new study resource, thanks to a larger initiative to modernize the Service Wide Exam (SWE) process.

FORCECOM established a bank of over 500 questions upon which the Enlisted Professional Military Education (EPME) section of the test will be based. With input from the field, the collaborative team of subject matter experts, and senior enlisted leaders, removed outdated questions and references were updated so members can be more efficient while studying the content. The references are now based on where the most current and relevant information is located. Piloting the use of a question bank to help guide learning begins with the MAY21 SWE and will continue for at least two testing cycles to collect data and determine the impact.   

The Service Wide Exam Process Improvement Team is chartered by FORCECOM and has been working in conjunction with the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard’s (MCPOCG) office, Deputy Commandant for Mission Support (DCMS), and Office of Leadership (CG-128).  Programs and senior enlisted leaders have worked to streamline test preparation and make it easier for members to focus on the most crucial elements of the Enlisted Professional Military Education (EPME).   

The questions are rooted in current Enlisted Performance Qualifications (EPQ). Members are encouraged to study specific questions. 

“We are excited about these SWE improvements,” said USCG Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Master Chief Petty Officer Jason Vanderhaden. “These changes will ensure our enlisted workforce is focused on studying the most important aspects of the EPME, assimilating the critical knowledge to grow further into Coast Guard leaders.” 

Questions? Contact:  

EPME and EPQ POC: EPME Knowledge Manager, Master Chief Petty Officer Del Hayes.

ERATS POC: Chief Rating Knowledge Manager, Master Chief Petty Officer Anthony Matulonis

Reference: 

  • May 2021 Service Wide Examination (SWE) Competition ALCGENL 003/21 
  • May 2021 Service Wide Examination (SWE) Enlisted Professional Military Education (EPME) Testing Update ALCGENL 227/20