Any advice for trying to go to Officer Candidate School?

2015-08-06T19:40:26-04:00

I am nearing the completion of my degree program at my current school ( BA - International Relations at AMU) and I am considering applying for OCS. What are my chances of being accepted into the program? Currently, I am a Staff Sergeant with five years active federal service. Any and all advice from those who have gone through this process would be helpful.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2015 8:36 PM

2015-08-06T20:36:57-04:00

Go for it. Only way to assure that you will NOT be selected is to not give it a try.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2015 8:45 PM

2015-08-06T20:45:38-04:00

You never know until you submit your packet. If that's what you want to do, conduct some research of the OCS website, get some advice from Officers in your Battalion or BDE who have gone through OCS and go for it!

Response by 1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2015 9:02 PM

2015-08-06T21:02:07-04:00

SSG Clark, go for it. As mentioned by others, there are resources to prepare yourself. I attended OCS and received my commission in 2010, although I enlisted as an 09S (OFFICER CANDIDATE ). I had a great experience there, especially with the prior enlisted population. Your rank and what it took to get there is already a testament to the fact that you have potential to make it through the course. I would advise you to seek guidance from any OCS officers you can meet with from your unit or installation, especially any company grade officers who will know what the recent OCS experience is about. "STANDARDS, NO COMPROMISE "

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2015 10:34 PM

2015-08-06T22:34:57-04:00

As long as you have the GT score and good morale character you should make it in SSG. The challenge comes in making it through the program. OCS is designed to show you who you truly are. Many fold and some rise to the occasion. Keep an open mind and understand that Officers and NCO's have different responsibilities and you will learn a great deal. Good luck. I'm sure you'll do fine. 2LT Hollis formerly SSG Hollis.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Aug 6 at 2015 10:43 PM

2015-08-06T22:43:52-04:00

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member Go for it as Capt Private RallyPoint Member said. If you have a good file, good PT scores, good NCOERs, you are in good shape.

Response by LtCol Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2015 9:47 AM

2015-08-07T09:47:21-04:00

Go for it! The worst they can do is say no, but you've got to at least ask. I think a staff sergeant with five years active service would have a great chance.

Response by LTC Mo Vanderslice made Aug 7 at 2015 1:06 PM

2015-08-07T13:06:25-04:00

Matthew, prior service officers are rare and valued. Once you have your degree, you have a clean discipline record, and the recommendation of a few O-6's or above (and they are usually happy to do this for you) acceptance into OCS is/was pretty easy. You've already been through PLDC and more at the NCO academy - OCS will not be any worse, just your tact's will be O-3s - don't laugh when they say something stupid, just do it with enthusiasm. Just hold your breath for three months and your done, and you're off to the branch specific officer basic course - too easy for an experienced NCO.
Good Luck, Mo Vanderslice

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2015 1:52 PM

2015-08-07T13:52:15-04:00

Soldiers definitely appreciate officers who were once enlisted! It's a different job and mindset, so be sure that is the direction you want to take your career. You also have to consider the chance of not getting the same branch you're in now or want to be in later. Good luck either way!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2015 9:22 PM

2015-08-07T21:22:45-04:00

OCS is a worthwhile goal as long as you understand the difference between the role of officers (planning) and that of NCO's (execute the planning). You will be branched according to the needs of the Army if selected. Your direct involvement with soldiers will also decrease as you progress from company grade to staff and field grade positions. That was the hardest part for me. I love being with and around the troops.

Response by CDR Dan E. made Aug 11 at 2015 11:41 AM

2015-08-11T11:41:19-04:00

You should be among the top candidates for selection. You meet the qualifications for USCG OCS which only requires one to be E-5 or higher and 30 college credits (may have change recently, not sure). Of course to promote well, a full degree is needed and you will have that, too. Not sure about Army OCS requirements, but I would still think you are qualified to the basics and a little above with a full degree. The rest will depend on your record, awards, specific training useful to the officer corps, how well you put your package together, and how well you do during the interview (assuming the Army gives one).
Get with a recent graduate to get the best guidance. They're supposed to offer support to potential candidates.

Good luck!

Response by LTJG Joe Nichols made Aug 11 at 2015 12:17 PM

2015-08-11T12:17:19-04:00

Your chances sound good. Contact your congressman and senator to schedule an appointment with them to discuss having them endorse you based on your active duty status. They will be happy to write you an excellent recommendation and this gives you an edge over other candidates.

Response by COL Dan Williams made Aug 11 at 2015 12:21 PM

2015-08-11T12:21:17-04:00

Matthew,

I attended Officer's Candidate School. I applied several times before being accepted. I did not realize, when I began to apply, that there is an actual regulation governing how to apply for Officers Candidate School.

Make sure you have a current AR for applying to OCS. The rest is up to you in getting the application submitted correctly.

The challenge is good and, although you will begin your time at OCS ahead of the power curve because of your prior enlisted time, you will quickly see the playing field level out.

All the best on your quest to attend OCS and graduate as a Second Lieutenant. I know I found the decision I made to go to OCS both rewarding and fulfilling.

Sincerely,
Dan Williams

Response by LtCol Ben Colandreo made Aug 11 at 2015 12:38 PM

2015-08-11T12:38:28-04:00

Greetings SSgt. OCS is very physically oriented so they screen for conditioning extensively. The only other major obstacle to those with degrees that I have seen recently are tattoos. If you are in great shape and have limited or no tattoos, then I would see no problem as a SSgt. Good luck.

Response by LT Mike Sanservino made Aug 11 at 2015 1:35 PM

2015-08-11T13:35:33-04:00

Hi, I wish that I could help you, but it's been several decades (3 + actually) since I went through AOCS in Pensacola with the US Navy and I've learned that the AOCS program has not only changed dramatically (no more Marine DI's) in the day to day but also in the location. The generalized advice is that you go into the program in the best physical condition that you can put yourself through so that you will not face anything physically that you can't do. Secondly, they can kill you but they are NOT allowed to eat you! Keep your sense of humor up, because basically you will get focused on, you will get drilled on, but if you can keep your wits about you, ignore the physical discomforts, laugh, keep mental focus and discipline and realize that the goal of the exercise is to weed out those who will quit when the going gets tough, then you can win the game. Once you get your commission, it's about prosecuting your duties with honor, integrity, care for your men, mentoring your petty officers/NCOs and insuring that you achieve your objectives in the best way possible with the very least chance or numbers of your guys getting hurt. Good luck.

Response by CPT Dave Donovan made Aug 11 at 2015 2:07 PM

2015-08-11T14:07:48-04:00

Lots of good thoughts here, Matthew. I'll try to add a few more details, though some of them may be outdated.

I graduated from Army OCS at Benning in 1992. I was one of six staff sergeants to start the course. All of us finished, as did the only SFC. Half of the warrant officers failed or quit. All of the college entrants (no active duty experience) failed, as did more than half of the folks in the E4-5 range. So, based on my experience you have a good statistical chance of succeeding should you get accepted.

So, about that acceptance. It is far more difficult than most folks realize, and it is dependent on the mix of soldiers getting commissions from other sources. Part of OCS's mission is to try to "fill in the gaps" for groups less represented in the recently commissioned cadre. If you happen to be in a more represented group in a given year, you will really have to shine. I recommend two things. First, ensure your application is in absolute (not even a single typo) compliance with the letter and intent of the reg. Second, get at least two general officer recommendations, preferably from the demographics being balanced, but most importantly from people you have given material reason to support you.

Graduating from OCS was among the proudest moments of my life. I wish you the best, that you may experience it for yourself.

Response by COL James Pittman made Aug 11 at 2015 2:33 PM

2015-08-11T14:33:37-04:00

I would think you have a very good chance providing that your SEER's and all the other stuff like APFT etc. are in order. A good score on OCS/OCT tests, GT etc. helps, but if you do get in your chances of a none combat arms MOS are somewhat competitive. Keep trying and you also might want to consider continuing with school and getting a Masters Degree in a shortage AOC that has Direct Commissions. Your BA is usually the entry level education requirement for Foreign Service Officer's, and I would also check with the FAO branch to see what they recommend for commissioning. Good luck and hope all works out.

Response by Capt Jeff S. made Aug 11 at 2015 2:44 PM

2015-08-11T14:44:31-04:00

Being prior enlisted is a double edge sword. It can help you and it can hurt you. Never forget where you came from but realize that once you put the bars on you have to stop behaving like an NCO and start conducting yourself as an officer. The troops will want you to be chummy with them, but you have to maintain good rapport from a professional distance. Too much familiarity breeds contempt. Most will respect your prior enlisted background and a few WILL test you and use it to try to get over on you. If you let your troops run you and things don't turn out well, just remember yours is the first head that will be on the chopping block. Listen to your NCOs but YOU make the decisions. That's why you get paid the big bucks. You are expected to lead.

Always be professional and nobody will every be able to accuse you of anything that could damage your reputation and career. Relationships change as your responsibilities change and that's okay. I lost a couple friends because they didn't know how to handle the change and gained several new ones on the officer side. The relationships and bonds you form early in your career are some of the tightest and most enduring. Those peers who were genuinely happy to see me advance... I still have relationships with them and they are the closest. We're all veterans and/or retired now and none of us wear our rank (figuratively so to speak), but some occasionally call me Captain just to tease and let me know they remember.

Response by CAPT Don Bosch, EdD made Aug 11 at 2015 2:48 PM

2015-08-11T14:48:08-04:00

Or, get a real officer commission and fly Navy. :-)
http://www.ocs.navy.mil/ocs_program_requirements.asp

Officer Training Command, Home of Navy OCS - OCS Program Requirements

United States Navy Officer Training Command, Newport, Rhode Island, currently has 6 officer assession programs.

Response by Maj Jesse Mendez made Aug 11 at 2015 3:04 PM

2015-08-11T15:04:22-04:00

SSgt,
Seek out your local OSO (officer selection officer)
At Marineofficer.com

If you would like to call me, I'd be glad to provide you some insight.

Response by LTC Michael A. Staves made Aug 11 at 2015 3:24 PM

2015-08-11T15:24:26-04:00

My experience is dated. It used to be not to much of a problem. They also used to have a direct commissioning program if you had a degree. Of course the other option would have been ROTC while in school. There are also variances whether you are active duty or reserve/national guard.

Response by LCDR Damon Senaha made Aug 11 at 2015 3:25 PM

2015-08-11T15:25:40-04:00

Former enlisted (E-5) earned commission and retired (0-4). What would impress the selection board the most is LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION, not only from the Chain of Command, but also from top brass. I was successful in both getting selected for a commission as well as gained entrance into law school simply because I got LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION from flag officers using their PENTAGON LETTERHEAD. You seek them out, you write the recommendation yourself (they will not do it for you), and they sign. They will provide you the original letter and the PENTAGON embossed envelope, of which you photocopy for your own records and mail the original into the selection board. (The envelope, bearing PENTAGON return address, does not need postage). That should put you above and beyond the competition on the selection board. Good luck!

Response by 1LT Harvey Hutchinson made Aug 11 at 2015 3:44 PM

2015-08-11T15:44:34-04:00

By all means apply for OCS! I was told to apply by my wife's uncle who was an active duty Lt Col at the time. I was considering an Army career, and he said the only way was to go as an Officer! He was a distinguished soldier in the 82nd and fought at the Battle of the Buldge, and was given a battlefield commission. I thought if anyone knew; he might know! I took his advice, and was given my commission in 1966. I didn't make the Army a career, as my wife had already stressed her limits! Hookahs!

Response by Capt Elliot Hershik made Aug 11 at 2015 3:50 PM

2015-08-11T15:50:35-04:00

I went thru Marine OCS with some Marines who were active duty NCOs immediately prior to reporting for OCS. Several of them had difficulty with the boot camp type atmosphere as they felt they had done it before. Watch out for this trap and prepare yourself for it. Keep your eye on your ultimate goal of becoming a commissioned officer, if that truly is a goal you have set for yourself.

Response by LT Apollo Kabukuru made Aug 11 at 2015 4:08 PM

2015-08-11T16:08:34-04:00

Just do it. I did it in 2003. My retirement is much higher than it would have been and I still got to retire at 38. Your first hurdle is the the OCS exam. Amazon sells some decent prep material for this. If you apply towards the end of your service, you can apply to all four services. First decide who you want to be and what type of commission you want to get. You want to work at an embassy? Do well in whatever designator/MOS for the first 5-7 years, take the DLAB and apply for FAO. You want to be an astronaut? Do well on the AFQT, go to flight school, command a large aircraft, get a test pilot tour and apply to NASA. You want to be a Doctor? Get your sciences done and apply to USUHS. Basically, the sky is the limit and one of the services will have precisely what you want to do.

Response by 1LT Joe Downing made Aug 11 at 2015 4:11 PM

2015-08-11T16:11:14-04:00

OCS is a great opportunity like most military schools all you have to do is beat the mind game and give them what they ask for regardless of how stupid it seems. Take advantage of all of the officers you have and choose your branch carefully. Even if branched to a MOS that you do not desire it's not the end of the world you can navigate to where you want to end up long before you are branch detailed. Do you homework and enjoy the new challenges that you are about to undergo

Response by Capt Michael Brown made Aug 11 at 2015 4:13 PM

2015-08-11T16:13:42-04:00

Well done on your education SSG. Make sure you have all your ducks in order when the time and the rest is up to the needs of the Army. Nothing lucky about going through this process, when preparation, such as yours, meets the right opportunity, things happen.

Response by LtCol Scott Duncan made Aug 11 at 2015 4:14 PM

2015-08-11T16:14:34-04:00

SSG,
I went through OCS and into the Marine Corps back in 1991 after obtaining my degree. I served 21 years. Certainly things change with time, but a few underlying principles don't change:

1. Needs of the service. Right now the DoD is essentially in a draw down, so space is becoming increasingly limited. If you want to go Army OCS you need to determine what the Army is looking for occupation wise as they are shaping the future force. Bottom line, do your research and see if those occupations match your interests and capabilities.
2. Physical conditioning. My Officer Selection Officer (OSO) was a straight shooter. He was very inspiring and wasn't a salesman. He made it very clear that going into OCS you need to be in top physical condition. Marine Corps OCS is very physically demanding and challenging. If you go into this in semi-shape, it is nearly impossible to catch-up. Being prior enlisted will give you advantages based on your experience and knowing how the Army operates. Don't let your physical conditioning be a shortfall or a chink in your armor. This is something you completely control, so this is a no brainer...push yourself and be physically ready.
3. Mental stamina. Again, being prior enlisted you have already gone through boot camp and have experienced the fun that is! In the Marine Corps OCS program the goal is attrition...who can make it to the end. Unlike the enlisted boot camp where they break you down as an individual and then build you back up into a team, in OCS the goal is to see if who can exist and function in a continual high stress environment - like combat. Your leadership skills are a key component here. The program is inherently looking for leaders. Maintaining your bearing and integrity is crucial. The sustained stress causes some to make suboptimal decisions. Its not a zero defect mentality in that regard, but if the decisions you make or actions you take blur the lines with your integrity - you are gone. Be ready for the mental rigors and remember...it is supposed to be stressful and its only a few months.

Hope this is some what helpful. Much success and keep yourself focused on the end state.

Response by LCDR Bruce Cooley made Aug 11 at 2015 4:43 PM

2015-08-11T16:43:26-04:00

Good choice. I advise NOT getting discouraged if it takes more than one or two applications. I do not know the Army procedures, but the Navy (from which I retired) had a defined number of personnel for each 'corp / designator' group, and you had to apply via each designator. The best thing is patience, persistence, and a lot of O-5 and above letters of recommendation. A "sterling" recommendation from your current C.O. also will help....but that's what I did.....and if finally worked for me in 1999. I wish you the best of luck, and success!!!

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 11 at 2015 4:55 PM

2015-08-11T16:55:54-04:00

SSG Clark,
I haven't gone through the process myself, but I used to work as an officer recruiter for the AF back in the day (late 90's-early 00's). Honestly, the best thing to do is speak to your local recruiter. They will have the latest statistics. They will also be able to give you any information about opportunities to cross into a different service where your chances may or may not be better to get into OCS/OTS, especially if you want to try to go into a specific specialty. Good luck to you!
-Maj Ortiz

Response by LTC Matthew Robinson made Aug 11 at 2015 5:02 PM

2015-08-11T17:02:12-04:00

Matthew, I cannot speak to your getting accepted; however, I did have several NCO's apply to and attend OCS successfully. It is good that you're near completing your degree as failure to complete your degree will inhibit promotion. Being prior service will help you in your career since you will have been on both sides of the buffer...so to speak. A word of warning. I was prior service and it took me a few years to become comfortable as an officer. At first I felt more comfortable around my platoon. Eventually I got over that and was able to relate well to all three groups; enlisted, NCO's, and Officers. Warrants remained a bit mysterious for a long time. I encourage you to go as far as you can.

Response by CPT Rell Spratley made Aug 11 at 2015 5:26 PM

2015-08-11T17:26:08-04:00

Just make sure that your packet is organized and your DA photo is impeccable with ALL your awards matching your ERB and you should have a fair chance of getting accepted. OCS still has a competitive selection process so any little thing can knock you out of consideration such as a missing signature, for example. Otherwise, just continue on what you're doing and most importantly, ' Stay out of trouble!'

Response by CPT Chuck Flint made Aug 11 at 2015 5:33 PM

2015-08-11T17:33:37-04:00

I am an OCS grad, class 1-90. I can tell you that it was the best decision I ever made. I am not up to date on the selection rates and your chances of being accepted, but I can tell you this - they are ZERO if you don't apply. You won't regret it, even though it is a tough 16 week training course. Be in shape, do more pull ups than you've ever done, and be ready to be a Team Player and support those other Candidates that are out into leadership positions, because your turn is coming. If it is the same as it used to be, you get peer evaluations while you are in the various leadership positions and while I'm not saying you won't have some weaker leaders than others, just remember that you will also be subjected to those peer evals. Cooperate and Graduate. Best of luck!!

Response by 1LT Jerome Brown made Aug 11 at 2015 6:03 PM

2015-08-11T18:03:25-04:00

if you are a SSg with 5 years service you should be able to advise yourself . after being drafted during Viet Nam , I served as a Lieutenant with the 25 Inf Div . and survived to go home

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 11 at 2015 6:37 PM

2015-08-11T18:37:21-04:00

I can tell you this, you have zero chance of you don't apply. They will assess your background. You need recommends, high PT scores, .............. I think I can keep going but the best thing you can do as a potential mustang is to know that degree doesn't mean you're smarter than the troops. As a potential Mustang it doesn't mean lets hang out with the duty Sgt. I've seen plenty of "O"s think they require the kiss the ring attitude. Back to your question. There isn't a secret sauce. What's your background ?

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 11 at 2015 6:39 PM

2015-08-11T18:39:19-04:00

Sorry can't edit but I meant "if". Just join LinkedIn was easier to use .

Response by LTC Dan Haveman made Aug 11 at 2015 6:44 PM

2015-08-11T18:44:34-04:00

One piece of advice: almost every little pain in the ass thing they do is to see how much you want a commission. Put up with it and graduate. Hell, even I made it!

Response by 1LT Ronald Grosse made Aug 11 at 2015 6:53 PM

2015-08-11T18:53:12-04:00

Great idea, whether you are going to make military a career or not. I went through 30 years ago as a Buck Sgt. but probably not much has changed. A lot of work but easy enough for NCO in good shape. Good luck!

Response by CPT Johnny Ray Noble made Aug 11 at 2015 6:53 PM

2015-08-11T18:53:12-04:00

OCS is a great opportunity to have a career as an Army officer. I was 0CS Class 3-98. It is not easy and is a very physically demanding school. Don't go there expecting an easy route to commissioning. It is like any military school physically and mentally challenging. I suggest you go to the OCS website and start memorizing the required knowledge. That is half the battle. Look at what you will do each week so you won't be surprised. It has its share of field time as well as classroom intruction. I was a SSG went I went through and it was the most challenging school I went to up until that point in my military career. You will feel like a private all over again, you will get yelled at, you will do ridiculous details, you will be sleep deprived (although nothing like ranger school), you will do midnight runs, you will also have fun and develop friendships and connections that will last a lifetime. Would I do it all over again? Yes I would but I'd also have to be 23 again. Go for it.

Response by Capt Dutch VanHatten made Aug 11 at 2015 6:58 PM

2015-08-11T18:58:27-04:00

I agree with most of what's been said here I would add one thing. I'm not sure of Army regs. One thing that helped my package a great deal was to include a letter of addressing why I should be selected. Speak with facts, not just flowery language. I would focus on previous leadership related accomplishments. Explain why you should be selected over the next person without talking bad about others and without sounding arrogant. I don't know if there is a requirement for this or not. If there is, you must to complete your package. If not, it could put you one step ahead. Good luck and don't be discouraged if you receive a first time "non select." Improve your package and fire again. I wasn't selected the first time, but was picked up very quickly the second. Con high, chest out, drive on!

Response by CPT Mark Mathiot made Aug 11 at 2015 7:03 PM

2015-08-11T19:03:03-04:00

If you have a GT of 110, good NCOERS, recommendations from your command, PT of 210 or higher, you should be fine. I was enlisted for over 15 years before I went through OCS and went over to the dark side.

Response by MAJ Terry Mathews made Aug 11 at 2015 7:50 PM

2015-08-11T19:50:50-04:00

It's been a few years ago (24) that I graduated from the Benning School for Boys. Submit your application and prepare for the Board. I was a 25 y/o Specialist with a Degree in Biology who had been doing medical research for 2 years when i was selected to attend. Had to branch transfer out of Armor to Medical Service Corps before graduation. Just remember the first two weeks the TAC Officer ms and NCO's have nothing but time on their hands, until classes start, so they screw with you a lot. After that it's classes and field exercises until the week of graduation. Don't forget your silver dollar for your first salute after you get your butter bars.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 11 at 2015 8:14 PM

2015-08-11T20:14:06-04:00

You need Good ncoers, good apft scores, letter of recommendation from your chain of command, And a complete packet. If you have these along with the necessary waivers you should get selected.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 11 at 2015 8:27 PM

2015-08-11T20:27:46-04:00

Should not be an issue.

Response by LTC Robert Paul made Aug 11 at 2015 9:03 PM

2015-08-11T21:03:47-04:00

Matthew I attended Infantry OCS at Ft. Benning in 67 (OC-1-68), so I am a dinosaur. Having said that I believe that it is better to stay invisible during such stressful times. Neither be out front, nor lag behind. Do your very best, but do not draw flak. Your experience as an NCO will serve you well both while attending OCS and as a commissioned officer.
Best of luck to you.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Aug 11 at 2015 9:37 PM

2015-08-11T21:37:55-04:00

Mouth shut... Eyes. And ears open. Find a good mentor and follow their example but also find your own style

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 11 at 2015 9:49 PM

2015-08-11T21:49:28-04:00

I believe you are supposed to be under six years service by the time you commission, so your clock is ticking. OCS is like basic training squared. So embrace the suck, divorce yourself from reality, be the ultimate team mate, be enthusiastic, and be prepared to run a lot. Everything else is easy.

Response by CPT Alex Von der Becke made Aug 11 at 2015 10:07 PM

2015-08-11T22:07:55-04:00

I agree with all but one part of LTC. Mo Vanderslice's comments and that is it may not be easy for a seasoned NCO at Fort Benning OCS. I only had 3 years as an enlisted (SGT) before going to Fort Benning OCS and for me it was FUN. I was told what to expect and I was trained from a young age with great patience, I did end up doing a lot of extra push ups though, my sense of humor, you can not show a sense of humor there. Now the real test the physical training is not bad if you are in shape where the seasoned NCO will have problems is in the mind games and making you rethink yourself worth. If you are confident in who you are you should not have any problems, just do as you are told and be a team player. I only mention what I did because I was TAC Officer for the State of NJ's Military Acadamy OCS program and was responsable for most of the people that quit the program. Not because I was an &%#$@ but because I asked the right questions and made people think about what they would be asked to do and if they could do it. LTC. Robert Paul said it very well also in his comments. I was the class of 18 June 1982, Best of luck to you.

Response by LTC Charles Blasdell made Aug 11 at 2015 10:45 PM

2015-08-11T22:45:44-04:00

You should be able to articulate your vision for your future in the Army. Keep the distractions to a minimum and be prepared to study. Academics and fitness are the keys to success. You need to shoot for a 270 or higher on the APFT. Most students drop for academic test failures. Brush up on Land Navigation and Call for Fire.
Good Luck you are the Future of our Army.

Response by LTC Troy P. Thomas made Aug 12 at 2015 12:08 AM

2015-08-12T00:08:04-04:00

SSG Clark,

Connect and send me a good contact number in a message and I will give you my insight into OCS. I switched over as an E7 about 14 years ago.

MAJ T

Response by COL David McClean made Aug 12 at 2015 12:38 AM

2015-08-12T00:38:13-04:00

Went trough the process a long time ago. You can get the steps to attend from your career counselor or online. It worth the effort.

Response by Capt Christian D. Orr made Aug 12 at 2015 3:15 AM

2015-08-12T03:15:28-04:00

If you'll pardon the cliché, "If at first you don't succeed, try, try again." During my (ultimately successful, after much trial & tribulation) attempts to get into and complete USAF Officer Training School (we Air Force pukes gotta be different, calling it OTS instead of OCS), as both a civilian and an active-duty enlisted applicant, it took a second submission of my application to get selected. Perseverance is the key, as both an applicant and as an actual Officer Candidate/Trainee. Good luck to you and hooah!

Response by CPT Laura Morgan made Aug 12 at 2015 7:24 AM

2015-08-12T07:24:23-04:00

I went through ROTC. I once saw the OCS candidates training when they were at the same facility as we were. To me what they went through seemed more like hazing, mind you this was 20 years ago. Maybe, things have changed. They wore metal helmets. The cadre were hosing them in the face with water while they were doing flutter kicks before dinner while waiting in DFAC line. Near the beginning of the line a cadre member asked student questions if they got it right that got to eat if they got it wrong they were put at the end of the line where the water hose thing was happening.

ROTC is much easier. If you are able to join rotc at your school this might be easier. You have to go to advance camp which is 6 weeks it like basic however cadets are in charge of moving and planning events. Have to present op orders and do squad leader movements and move in tactical formations.

ROTC is typically a two year program but maybe you can go to advance camp with your experience and do the last two years of rotc concurrently. I knew some prior service people who did just that. They were exceptional soldiers though. You would have to talk to the pms (professor of military science) commander and see if they would give you this opportunity. If Given the opportunity you can take the last two years of the program simultaneously but you would have to convince them to send you to advance camp to prove you already now the basics, which you do for you went through basic training and you've lead squads and you know the rank structure.

ROTC is an easier route than OCS. Since you're still in school don't forget about this option.

What brach are you considering getting into? With the current downsizing plans in this branch, select process might be highly selective.

Good luck

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 12 at 2015 7:39 AM

2015-08-12T07:39:21-04:00

Learn how to make a bed fast!

Response by 1LT Kathleen Heisler made Aug 12 at 2015 9:37 AM

2015-08-12T09:37:53-04:00

Go for it , you won't know if you don't try. I went to OCS after 6 years of being enlisted E-4. Your prior service will come in very handy. If you can make it to SSG OCS should not be a problem for you. True , I went in the mid- 80's and things change. Good Luck to you.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 12 at 2015 9:49 AM

2015-08-12T09:49:57-04:00

I went through OCS in 2013. I can't answer your question about going in as prior service since I was a college-op, but the former NCOs in my class were a TREMENDOUS help. There was an E-7 in my platoon and his knowledge and experience was greatly appreciated by a newbie like me, so I'm sure you could have the same effect. I definitely recommend checking out the most recent MILPERs on age/TIS limits and to read through http://www.armyocs.com. I got a good head start by going through the required knowledge and OCSOP before I arrived.

ArmyOCS Portal

An OCS Foundation Portal

Response by CPT David Tanner made Aug 12 at 2015 10:22 AM

2015-08-12T10:22:41-04:00

I am a retired Army CPT that went OCS with 14 years enlisted time (11 as a NCO).. If you plan on staying ARNG, then put in for it right away. If Reserves or Regular Army then I believe your degree has to be finished 1st. You must have a 110 min GT score and make sure in great PT shape. No temp profiles or flags. Be prepared forleep deprivation, stress, and exhaustion. Finish degree ASAP, and then your Basic Officer Leader Course, then Captains Career Course, then work on your Master's degree. Do it that order as fast as you can. Schedule next phase or school ASAP. Good luck.

Response by COL Andrew Burns made Aug 12 at 2015 12:06 PM

2015-08-12T12:06:17-04:00

As a Prior-Service graduate of the " Benning School for Boys and Girls", I can tell you that with the appropriate recommendations from your COC (Chain of Commmand), you will breeze through the course. Things have hopefully changed for the better since Class 3-83! Instead of flunky 1LTs that are on their way out of the system, serving as your TAC Officers, they implemented Officers and 1SGs that WANTED to be there to develop the future leaders of the Army. You should however, seek mentorship of some recent graduates for more current G2. That being said.....DO NOT submit an OPORD for your Poggie Bait parties, they will try to pick you apart one at a time so the best thing to do is to "gel" together as a platoon early. If they still have "Tray- Line Ridge", where they bust your chops at mealtime....develop a signal when the las person gets their food (usually tapping a glass) once for 5 minutes tog and twice for go. You then rush the stacker and he will explaim :Candidates in the Tray line double up (and you give your tray to the candidate behind you and rush out. They can only have 5 in line so your platoon keeps doubling up until 5 of you take the hit. They will see that you are a team and not individuals. If you want more info contact me

COL (RET) Burns

Response by Maj Dale Smith made Aug 12 at 2015 12:33 PM

2015-08-12T12:33:45-04:00

SSGT, You didn't mention which service OCS you planned on attending. I will assume the US Army. Your ability to function within OCS, training and leadership will be borne out by your fit reps you had as an NCO, your grades in college your Army Officer Qualifying test scores and your original ASVAB. Keep in mind that all services OCS candidates would do well to have a college background in something germane to their MOS, such as engineering, strategic planning, material testing, weaponeering, etc. You should be able to take a professional officer training class on line. I was in the USAF and would suggest Squadron Officer's School or the USMC staff school. This would place you in a position to have a "leg up" on anyone else competeing for the slot you would like.
I have been out for 20 years, but would say that visiting your S4/J4 office and talking to the adjutent about this would be an excellent step. (S)he could give you some great dynamic input as to the best route to go. Keep in mind that with your Army background, you would be an excellent staff officer in the Navy or Air Force based on your knowledge of ground troop movements and holding ground. I was an Air tactician and although I had 3 years of Air Force ROTC, I also had a semester of Navy ROTC and 3 years of Junior Army ROTC. Being well rounded is a good quality in an officer, and being able to "walk the walk and talk the talk" will hold you in high esteem by your troops. When you become an officer, don't be afraid to get your hands dirty, but remember not to micro-manage and let your troops make the decisions that they are capable of making.

Response by CDR Ed Griffith made Aug 12 at 2015 12:55 PM

2015-08-12T12:55:29-04:00

I am retired Navy and went to OCS in 1981, but I had friends in all the services and I think there are some commonalities. I agree with LTC Mo Vanderslice that prior service officers are rare and valued. Using tact will reach its acid test not so much with with O-3s, but with fellow candidates trying leadership with only the experience of having been in OCS a few weeks. Many will look up to you as someone who will tell the truth and tell what the real service is like. Prior enlisted who shared a cup of coffee with me had far more credibility than any instructor. They sometimes reassured me that I made the right decision.

As LTC Mo Vanderslice said, just do everything with enthusiasm and show initiative. OCS had us rank everyone top to bottom. Prior enlisted normally are at the top, the only exception was one who used every trick to get out of work who ranked at the very bottom.

Know what is important and choose. Failing personnel inspection meant being yelled at and extra duty. Failing academics meant you got kicked out of OCS, but nobody yelled at you. There is often deliberately not enough time to do everything so choose wisely. Your mission is to get through OCS and on to the next stage.

Once they told different uniform requirements to two different candidates. The correct response should have been to get together and agree on one uniform to show cooperation and unity. When we showed up wearing two different uniforms the whole company was punished.

Buy and use an electric shaver because it is faster and can be used anytime. OCS was the only time in my life I used an electric shaver, but I was glad I had it at that time.

Have a clear answer in mind if asked "Why do you want to be an officer?" Regardless of what you feel, always show confidence that you will make a good officer.

For recommendations, most any will say what a great guy you are. Try to get some that will give specific examples of what you did as illustration. (Have them avoid exaggeration such as "Will make a great admiral written by an O-2) I do not know if there is a limit on the number of recommendations, but the more the better. Do not exclude relevant recommendations from enlisted people.

Don't let anybody give you any grief about your degree. It is valued to show you can see the big picture and have enough perseverance to follow through on a tough goal.

The big question is if this is something you really want. If it is, I believe you will make it. Just remember that after you make it, your mission will not be to micromanage enlisted people even if you do know more than they do. Your mission will be to influence the officer corps and use the big picture to steer your service in the right direction.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 12 at 2015 4:00 PM

2015-08-12T16:00:04-04:00

Do a search on OCS on this site. There is a lot of good information on previous posts.

Response by LTC Henry Wadsworth made Aug 13 at 2015 1:57 PM

2015-08-13T13:57:39-04:00

One thing that you have to do, if you are married, is to get the support of your wife. When I went to Artillaay O(CS it waS 6 MONTHS LONG and this ment being seperated from your family for at least the first two months. The main thing you have to be prepared for is the mental games. They will try to get you to wash out. Along with the academics is the physical stress, they are trying to see how much mental stress you can take and still function in a leadership/combat environment.

Response by LTC Kenneth Harris made Aug 13 at 2015 3:25 PM

2015-08-13T15:25:03-04:00

First off. Be in excellent shape. Be prepared to max the APFT. Build your speed + endurance. Been awhile but had to complete an eight mile run among other things.

Response by LTC Kenneth Harris made Aug 13 at 2015 4:32 PM

2015-08-13T16:32:00-04:00

I also want to add this. There are two sets of OCS. One is the State or National Guard schools. The other is the Federal or Fort Benning School. Benning school is better. My TACS were actually a lot tougher and say since the Senior TAC was a Vietnam veteran. Shows how old I am. And there is some silly stuff. Being a SSG you will not have problems that the college options will have. And I might add we had to do a lot of pull ups and monkey bars, obstacle courses, ranger swim test (etc)

Response by Lt Col Douglas Webb made Aug 14 at 2015 1:11 PM

2015-08-14T13:11:17-04:00

Five points to get into OCS. Worked for me...
1) Obtain great recommendations and evals.
2) Have your sh1t wired tight. No loose ends, and be knowledgeable. Impress the boss!
3) Have patience, but be persistent...if not selected then try again.
4) Be humble, but not weak or indecisive. Great leaders are decisive and bold, yet meek.
5) Be professional and respectful to superiors, peers, and subordinates alike, but don't overdo it...no one likes a know-it-all brown nosier.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2015 9:47 AM

2015-08-15T09:47:46-04:00

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member I had an absolutely stellar time during my time at OCS. I would whole-heartedly agree with all those above who said letters of recommendation. Those are a huge building block of your packet. They will be heavily weighed. I also agree with prior service candidates being cherished at the course itself. We valued the advice of those few guys in our class who were.

Make sure, when you go, you maintain the attitude of "this too shall pass." As fun and educational as it was, it's no longer a "gentlemen's course." They're testing not only your mental and physical toughness; they're also testing your basic leadership ability (which I'm sure you've got locked down) and your integrity. There are plenty of reasons to go home for petty, irksome things-stay and commission for the grand ones. Good luck.

Response by MAJ Jim Hollingsworth made Oct 7 at 2015 5:41 AM

2015-10-07T05:41:46-04:00

SSG Clark, when you get there you will have good days and bad days. Whenever you get discouraged pull off your helmet liner and gaze at the gold bar you pinned inside. It will be a reminder of where you've been and where you're going. Good luck and God speed.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2019 8:14 PM

2019-11-17T20:14:27-05:00

To apply for Navy OCS, you'll need a letter of conditional release from the Army. If you don't know how to get this, go talk to a Navy officer recruiter. After you get this, Navy officer (not enlisted!!!) recruiters can help you put your package together for the community you'd like to apply to. I recommend looking at the board dates (https://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/career/careercounseling/Documents/FY20%20Board%20Schedule%20Final.pdf) because if you apply to a board that meets before the board you would prefer, you might end up going to a community you don't really want.

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