Originally Posted by Adam Smith

Peever is comparing apples and oranges. Earning 125K SQC early in year n from [less than SE status] will get you SE status for both year n and year n+1, since status kicks in immediately after you earn it. So yes, you can earn almost 2 years of SE status for $31.25K.

Of course, the same early recognition logic applies to the current program - dash to 100K SQM and 20K SQD early in year n, and your status will also be good for both year n and n+1. It's just easier to do it more quickly in new program where your butt doesn't have to be in the seat all that long, as long as you spend enough.

So it's $31.25K vs $20K, not $31.25K vs $40K.