Hi Matt
If a degree was a requirement, it would be a requirement - so I think as long as you have the qualities they're looking for, and a CV full of lots of other lovely activities, I wouldn't worry about the fact that you didn't have one! If pilot's what you want, that's the one to go for!
Planning exercises are a nightmare - I found it very helpful to do some with a friend, and then compare our results, before comparing them with the answers - it gave you more of the thought process than would otherwise be apparent. It's hard to find many to practice with, though!
Any word on your date yet? I have a friend who went through her filter almost a month ago, and hasn't heard yet, so I wouldn't panic just yet!