Youll have to wait for another year im afraid.
I believe that this years selections have been made and are off very shortly.
Usual thing with this, apply through you Adjt. He/She should have all the details.
I did it in 2003. Its well worth the fight to get on.
Influencing? Your boss, He/She has to do a write up on you for the selection process.
Any other questions the PM.
Rgds,
Speccy