Quest

Quest stages

Step one of joining the Vanguard - register at one of the terminals in the Orientation Hall inside MAST.
Objective: Register for the Vanguard
I've registered for the Vanguard. I can now either explore the United Colonies "Orientation" displays or head straight to the exam.
Objective: (Optional) Explore the Orientation Hall
I've listened to the specified United Colonies Orientation displays. Now I can either keep exploring the hall or take on the exam itself.
Objective: Proceed to the Vanguard exam
I chose to bypass the exam, rather than finish it completely. We'll see how that affects my final score.
I found all three Sector Releases and completed the exam. Now it's on to the next one.
Objective: Proceed to the next exam
All right. Exam time. Sounds like I need to enter one of the piloting simulation chambers to kick things off.
Objective: Enter the Piloting Simulator
Sounds like I'll need to take down at least three tiers of enemies in order to pass the piloting exam. Time to show the Vanguard what I've got.
Success! I passed the Vanguard piloting exam! Time to speak to Commander Tuala to figure out what comes next.
Objective: Speak to Commander Tuala
Apparently there's an oath I need to take before I can start working with the Vanguard. Commander Tuala said I should follow him so he can administer it.
Objective: Follow Commander Tuala
I should speak to Commander Tuala so I can officially start working for the Vanguard.
Objective: Speak to Commander Tuala
I've taken my Vanguard oath and received my probationary mission - transporting a communications repair suite to Tau Ceti II. Once I've completed that, I'm in.