SCH or AST?

[FlareR]

You are better off going with SCH. AST will be a pain to level due to weak potencies, weak dps, and butchered buffs. If you want to actually participate in EX Trials or Savage Raids but do not want to be WHM then SCH is the only option at current. As AST is unwanted due to being a deficit.

AST has no problem keeping the party alive. I've had no issues in roulettes or trials. Even cleared Innocences EX on NOCT AST pretty much solo healing, since my co healer was a glare mage.
Do you have to work harder? Sure! But it's manageable and can clear all current content.