Does the ARNG OCS Program (state run) still allow officer candidates in who do not currently have a bachelor’s degree?

MSgt Neil Greenfield — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 16:09:20 -0500

I remember when I was considering going that route back in the 80’s in the MDARNG that you could receive a commission as a 2LT by going through the state’s OCS Program. The only consideration was that if you remained an officer and wanted to get promoted to MAJ, you had to get your bachelor’s degree.

Response by SP5 Peter Keane made Feb 26 at 2021 4:26 PM

SP5 Peter Keane — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 16:26:49 -0500

According to the NG website, the degree is only required to go to Benning Federal OCS

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2021 5:02 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 17:02:08 -0500

My understanding is that most states require at least 60 hours towards a bachelor's to go do state-run OCS. I believe that a bachelor's is only required for CPT, so if you do not graduate in time and aren't eligible for promotion within your zones for captain, you'll get chaptered out.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Feb 26 at 2021 8:26 PM

CPT Lawrence Cable — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 20:26:52 -0500

The rules state you need 90 credit hours, but you have to be "fully qualified" to promote to Captain, which means a 4 year degree and a Basic course. Most States have not had good luck with non degree Commissions and just don't do it.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2021 9:50 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 21:50:14 -0500

It is best to have your bachelor's degree out of the way because I knew a first lieutenant who did not get done and he was kicked out after 8 years. The only caveat is if you don't go to benning, and you want to go active duty and stay active duty, they really discriminate against those who went to a State franchise OCS. If you want to go on tours is one thing. I have had conversations with people saying they try to go active duty and the active component dislikes state OCS. I was mobilized 3 times so I have plenty of experience. I have had debates and arguments with active duty soldiers who put us down. I am retiring at the end of October but I was able to have above a 290 to a 300 on my APFT half of my military career.

Response by Wayne Soares made Feb 26 at 2021 10:02 PM

Wayne Soares — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 22:02:55 -0500

Thanks for the question Neil