How long after enlisting would I have to wait to apply to USMC OCS? Would enlisting and then applying really make that big of a difference?

2018-04-25T19:53:40-04:00

I want to commission as an officer in the USMC. I have 6 credit hours left to complete my degree and will end with around a low GPA ~2.7. My PT scores will be exceptional; I currently hold ~13:00 minutes for my 2-mile run with no specific training, so I can assume I will shave time off in the coming months.

I’m worried about my GPA. If I were to enlist, how long after enlisting would I have to wait to apply to become an officer? Would enlisting and then applying really make that big of a difference on the commitee?

Thank you all in advance for the replies.

Response by CPT Don Kemp made Apr 25 at 2018 7:59 PM

2018-04-25T19:59:59-04:00

Were you in ROTC? I thought OCS was only for enlisted. What is your other option?

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Apr 25 at 2018 11:15 PM

2018-04-25T23:15:59-04:00

OCS in the Corps is for any individual who is not in another commissioning program. I'd talk to your local OSO through your recruiter before I did anything

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2018 12:11 AM

2018-04-26T00:11:01-04:00

Jeff Svajda Talk to a Marine Corps Officer Selection Officer now about OCS. Below is a list of Officer Selection Stations and the phone numbers. Keep us posted.

http://www.mcrc.marines.mil/8thmcd/Units/Officer-Selection-Offices/

http://www.trngcmd.marines.mil/Units/Northeast/Officer-Candidates-School/General-Information/

https://www.marines.com/becoming-a-marine/officer/training.html

Officer Selection Offices

Officer Selection Offices page

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2018 2:38 PM

2018-04-26T14:38:38-04:00

Talk to an OSO. The experience gained from a few years enlisted will help you become a well-rounded officer. It will also cost you some time, so it's a tradeoff. OCS and TBS will ensure you have the basics to serve as an officer. Serving as enlisted will give you the practical application and general knowledge. It's your call. Just do your best and good luck.