For promotion, which ranks require a Marine to meet or exceed the cutting score for their MOS?

For promotion within the Marine Corps, both Corporals and Sergeants are required to meet or exceed the cutting score specific to their Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). The cutting score is a benchmark that takes into account both performance evaluations and the proficiency of Marines in their respective fields. This system ensures that promotions are based not only on time in grade and time in service but also on the merit of the individual and their ability to serve effectively in their designated role.

In the case of Corporals, achieving the cutting score is crucial for advancing to the next rank, while Sergeants must also meet this same requirement for promotion. This method promotes a culture of meritocracy where only those Marines who are adequately prepared and perform well in their duties can advance in rank.

Lower ranks such as Private First Class do not have the same requirement for a cutting score when it comes to promotions, which is why those rank options are not relevant to this context.