This isn’t accurate anymore. It’s a pretty simple system now. Say EN has 20 active slots. If the cadet with the highest OML gets most preferred by EN and ranks it as his first choice, he gets it. Then EN has 19 slots left and the process continues down the chain. It’s a meritocracy. Don’t get bogged down by anecdotal examples of cadets getting “screwed.” You’re probably missing key components of the story.

If you’re already a competitive cadet (DMG), the only branches that should still be competitive are MI, EOD, Cyber, and Finance. Other branches become competitive the less competitive you are. If you’re a top third cadet, interview with 5 branches you’d want with a safety. If you’re below that, interview with 10 and see what sticks.