As an enlisted soldier, how would I begin the process of starting an OCS Packet?

2018-03-31T21:52:29-04:00

I am currently in a unit where the company level commander is a CW4. With that being said, how do I begin the OCS application process? Do I go through my Chain of Command and ask for help? Do I go straight to my S1 to inquire about the process? Or do I begin some sort of paper work and then proceed to ask about the OCS process?

Response by A1C Ian Williams made Mar 31 at 2018 9:55 PM

2018-03-31T21:55:45-04:00

2LT Private RallyPoint Member a lot of people ask this question. Gauge the temperature of the response of your chain of command. Seek multiple avenues and have multiple back-up plans. Even if you are the best, keep it that way. Stay healthy and study in your free time.
If you really want this, some sacrifices will have to be made.

Response by A1C Ian Williams made Mar 31 at 2018 9:57 PM

2018-03-31T21:57:17-04:00

and one more thing 2LT Private RallyPoint Member NEVER give up.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Mar 31 at 2018 9:59 PM

2018-03-31T21:59:29-04:00

Go to the S-1 for the packet. You need to be high speed and impress your seniors to include the commander in order for them to help you with a recommendation from the BN CO. You also need to think deeply about why you want to become an officer. You can't sound tentative when asked the question.

Response by SGT Eric Davis made Mar 31 at 2018 10:17 PM

2018-03-31T22:17:14-04:00

I just wanted to know what you mean “with that being said.” After you said the CO is a CW4?

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Mar 31 at 2018 10:26 PM

2018-03-31T22:26:26-04:00

Elaborate if you can, OK? What bachelors are you getting or do you have? Any assicates also? What majors? What GPAs? What branch of Army would you want? Would you also want Army WOCS for flight as well, whether pilot or WSO/nav? Would you want other svcs at all? What field or fields interest you? What type of work? Give a detailed bio sketch, reading, hobbies, interests, sports, be as detailed as you possibly can be, the more you send in here, I've observed, the more concrete tho

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Mar 31 at 2018 10:27 PM

2018-03-31T22:27:52-04:00

Sorry, I hit enter by mistake, the more concretely you explain your background and/or ambitions, Tue more concretely you can ne given suggestions, so explain more, list actual course titles, GPAs, possibly, go into that level of detail, I'd be most eager to here !ore, OK?

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Apr 1 at 2018 1:42 AM

2018-04-01T01:42:41-04:00

http://www.ocsfoundation.org

I'd sent this in before, I didn't know ofmyoud seen it, the regular OCS programs are all covered, OIS indoc programs, incl those under USPHS and NOAA aremtz also, Army WOCS is left out, howecerz purely for info or discussion, I think you might find invaluable, you know? Enjoy....

OCS Foundation

SERVICES FOR: Candidates Alumni Officer Families

Response by CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana made Apr 2 at 2018 7:34 AM

2018-04-02T07:34:42-04:00

Damon; always begin any process in the uniformed services with your COC (Chain of Command).

Complete your DA Form 4187 for your COC's approval and endorsement. Attach copies of your educational qualifications, physical fitness test record, awards and recognition. Make your packet appealing with recommendations from your Squad Leader, Platoon Sergeant, First Sergeant and above. Prove to your Command that you follow rules, the CoC and Service Values; you are not alone and your superiors, peers and subordinates support your objective of becoming a Commissioned Officer.

Finally; understand it is best to get endorsements from your CSMs and other commissioned officers. The more the merrier. Members of Congress letters of recommendation weigh gold in this process and GOs weigh platinum. See how your influence can best serve your purpose to achieve your objective.

Thanks.

Response by 1LT Benjamin Flasher made Apr 11 at 2018 9:53 PM

2018-04-11T21:53:39-04:00

2LT Private RallyPoint Member I was in your exact position about a year ago. Coming from a CID unit, my whole office was comprised of warrants and civilians. They were very much supportive of my going to OCS, but were not certain as to the process. Turns out it is not that dissimilar to applying for WOC school, even to the point that you use many of the same forms. I mostly worked with my Detachment Sergeant to get the necessary documents from S1 and so on, but it was ultimately my BN XO who took me under his wing and helped me through the process. The interview portion was also a point of friction as my Group was located on the other side of the country and we ended up having to do it over VTC.

Response by Capt Ron Lane made May 23 at 2018 7:50 PM

2018-05-23T19:50:47-04:00

Talk to your First Sgt.