Posted on Feb 19, 2019
Jay Aaron
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Could I do ROTC after being disqualified medically for OCS? So long story short, I’m prior enlisted and was diagnosed from the VA(during my RE1 delectation) with an adjustment disorder. I didn’t believe I actually struggled with the adjustment disorder once I was diagnosed, so I went through the very long process of being undiagnosed. After I graduated from undergrad I chose to pursue OCS and thought I would make it through no questions asked. However, I was disqualified and needed a waiver to get in. I just found out my waiver was disapproved. I have also been accepted into grad school and already was planning on attending grad school and trying to do ROTC if I could. I don’t agree with my waiver disaproval, and I know it doesn’t matter what I think, but I don’t think I should be disqualified based on the DODI anyways.

Anyways, I understand that the ROTC medical review process is different. Do I have a chance? I’m going to give it a go anyways, but would love some more advice.
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Responses: 30
COL Dana Hampton
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You would most likely need the same type of waiver to contract for MSIII and MSIV while pursuing a graduate degree. For a definiative answer it’s always best to seek advice from your school’s Sr ROTC cadre. They will have access to the most current policy and regulations.
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SFC Marc W.
SFC Marc W.
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The medical regulation regarding commissioning is the same regardless of source (ie OCS, West Point, ROTC. @COL Dana Hampton is correct on guidance.
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Jay Aaron
Jay Aaron
6 y
Could I potentially be approved for a medical waiver for ROTC even though I wasn’t for OCS?SFC Marc W.
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SFC Marc W.
SFC Marc W.
6 y
I don't know enough about how they route waivers or who the final authority is for your particular conditions to give you a clear idea.
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COL Jon Thompson
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The Army uses the same standards of medical fitness for entrance. So I doubt that you would make it. However, the waiver review and approval process are probably different. For ROTC, it goes to Cadet Command and the Cadet Command surgeon makes a recommendation to the commander. Some waivers have to go DA Surgeon General. But it is up to a medical professional to make a recommendation and usually the commander will go with that. Also, I am not sure how the medical reporting systems talk with each other. The only thing I know for sure is nothing will happen if you don't try. I would go talk to the ROTC program and make your case. If you are a quality scholar/athlete/leader, they may take a chance. Good luck.
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LTC Jason Mackay
LTC Jason Mackay
6 y
It’s Chapter 2 of AR40-501, not Chapter 3 Retention Standards
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Jay Aaron
Jay Aaron
6 y
That specifically states history or current adjustment disorder within 3 months is disqualifying. I am may have a “history” according to the Army, but not within 3 months. So that’s why I’m confused why I’m DQ’d anyways. LTC Jason Mackay
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LTC Jason Mackay
LTC Jason Mackay
6 y
Jay Aaron only the precommissioning physical doctor can answer that.
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MAJ Corporate Buyer
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I'm not sure how the ROTC medical process is any different. It doesn't make sense how a medical condition could keep you from commissioning through OCS but not keep you from commissioning through ROTC. You'd be ending up in the exact same place with the exact same medical condition. I'm not saying you're wrong, it just doesn't seem logical. Then again, the military isn't always the most logical place. Good luck to you.
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