Look, no one actually thinks you're dumb for not taking online basics due to financial situations, or whatever situation you want to come up with. Truthfully, no one on here really cares, it's not their life. But (as it seems lots of people tend to just willingly avoid) the government sucks for lack of better words. Here's a short list of things I have personally experienced, and seen happen.
1) being denied an experience bid because I had 2040 hours of Experience instead of 2080 mind you I had held ratings for 4 years at that point).
2) being picked up for a bid, go through my TOL, and then they rescind it due to the government shutdown (moreso, they just shut off the entire bid).
3) having 10 years of ATC experience, washing out of a core 30 facility, and being offered FSS spot since I can be a controller. And then get referred on the next open AND experienced bid.
4) (not me but a cowork r) goes through the entire process, finished CIL and never gets a FOL due to shutdown (this seems far-fetched but it's what she says and I'm not gonna question it)
So, what were saying is don't be surprised if the government tells you "ah... Sorry if you're waiting for in person basics, it will be 3 years" or "ah sorry, you elected for in person basics? Well, we won't have any more of those period so just apply next time!". Neither of the above things sound *that* far-fetched to me. If ATC is something that you really want to do, it is suggested to take the earliest path, even if it means some sacrifices. Mainly, because like many are saying, the hiring numbers look to be getting smaller and smaller every bid. BUT if ATC is something you think is cool and it'll be nice (aka sweet I got the job, or eh no big deal) then feel free to take your time, but don't be surprised if some wild stuff happens. It happens every bid
