Can a national guard soldier attend active OCS (12 weeks) course instead of the state course (12-18 months)?

2020-04-11T06:25:30-04:00

I want to drop an OCS packet however i dont want to wait a year to a year and a half to commission. 12weeks all out is more my style. Can i attend the active ocs course?
If so is there a program or a waiver needed?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2020 6:34 AM

2020-04-11T06:34:11-04:00

You can; if your state is willing to pay for it.

Response by SGM Jeff Mccloud made Apr 11 at 2020 8:16 AM

2020-04-11T08:16:31-04:00

There are a few options, several states run an "accelerated OCS" (all three phases concurrent) and federal (Ft Benning).
Benning is very competitive for the Guard and not available every year.
The Guard accelerated options are also very competitive.
You will be able to go over these options with your OSM once you have e complete packet.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2020 1:02 PM

2020-04-11T13:02:34-04:00

Yes, had several NG guys in my OCS Class at Benning. Like others on the thread have already said, gonna be up to your state to pony up the cash to send you

Response by CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2020 2:06 PM

2020-04-11T14:06:13-04:00

Yes, so long as your state pays for it. A good quarter of my class was NG. They can decide not to keep you there if you recycle. Keep that in mind. Good luck!

Response by CPT Derek Wren made Apr 12 at 2020 2:07 AM

2020-04-12T02:07:20-04:00

Why don’t you do an Accelerated program like the guard has? Get it done in Just under two months, one shot one kill.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2020 10:59 AM

2020-04-15T10:59:20-04:00

Yes. That’s where I commissioned. A recruiter that works in my armory said it’s easier to get a federal a lot with your initial contract. One of my soldiers is dropping a packet so I asked her about it. I’m really glad I got a federal slot because I’ve heard nothing but bad things about my state’s OCS program, unfortunately. I would go for an accelerated course if not federal. The traditional route sounds terrible. Thankfully, my recruiter worked to get me a fed slot.

Response by CW2 Donald Kempf made Apr 18 at 2020 12:16 PM

2020-04-18T12:16:21-04:00

In 1980, I had the option. Ft Benning for 13 weeks or Indiana Military Academy for two summer camps and 12 weekend drills. I chose IMA