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Posted in these groups: 
Officers
Officer Candidate School (OCS) (USMC)
Officers Officer Candidate School (OCS) (USMC)
Posted 9 y ago
Responses: 16
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I was 34 at OCS; at least one classmate was 40. The maturity goes a long way in being able to handle what gets thrown at you. Just be prepared to perform physically as well as the 22-26yr olds, or you might stick out.
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LCpl Ben Spalding
Ok that's good, since I plan on being physically fit for running and endurance before I arrive.
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LTC Stephen C.
Men and women like 1LT (Join to see) successfully complete OCS all the time, LCpl Ben Spalding. I know 1LT (Join to see), and she knows what she's talking about! It Shall Be Done!
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I completed OCS at age 30 and can say that it was definitely a learning experience transitioning from enlisted to officer. Just go in with an open mind and realize that you don't know everything.
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CPT (Join to see)
I know the Marine Corps process is probably different than Army OCS, but I can give you some tidbits. Selection for OCS can be competitive so I would recommend having your Bachelors Degree, or at least have 90 complete when you begin applying. Plan on being able to score 285 and above on your PT test. Ensure your GT Score is over 110. You will more than likely need a recommendation letter from your current CO. I would recommend getting one from an O-5 as well if possible. Learning and understanding the preparation of OPORDs and Land Navigation are a must.
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COL Dan Fuhr
CPT (Join to see) - Being a first class individual and soldier helps a lot too - as was the case for you, sir.
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LTC "Chip" Ernest Gross
It is tough, but it can be done. I graduated OCS at the age of 29. It was Indiana Military Academy, INARNG, but the same POI as Ft. Benning OCS (active component). The hard part about that version was going back every month for drill knowing what (and who-the TAC staff!) was waiting for us! It got better once we became senior candidates and "turned blue". The other advantage I think was the fact that I had time to get into better shape between drills. I learned the hard way at orientation weekend that I needed to work out more and get in shape. I was already working on my doctorate by that time, so at least I had the bachelors and masters degree in the bag for the educational requirement.
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Depends on what kind of shape you are in. I was almost 28 when I went through and was a 300 PFT'er at the time and it was physically challenging but not insurmountable. It really helps to be in shape when you go there. For me, It was a lot more physically demanding than boot camp.
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Did it...physically and discipline-wise, no. Being humble (and getting humbled) and realizing you don't know everything, even though you are a lot older than your peers...that was hard for me.
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LCpl Ben Spalding
Thank you sir. I have another question. Is it harder to get promoted, when you are a lot older than your group of peers whom are a younger than you?
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LTJG (Join to see)
Promotions through o3 are pretty much automatic, as long as you don't get a dui or pop hot. This is in the navy, however, it's my understanding promotion is the same in all services.
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CPT (Join to see)
I did not have any prior. I did OCS at age 73, the oldest ever to graduate from SMR or National Guard OCSs. It is all in your will, you accomplish what you want. Now I am an happy 2LT.
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MAJ (Join to see)
I did it at 38. No problem. I was enlisted for 20 years when I took my commission.
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CPT(P) (Join to see)
These guys are all correct, I went in at 31 and graduated OCS at 32, oldest in our class was 36 and a PT stud
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I went in at 31, graduated at 32 from OCS. The oldest in my class was 36 and a PT stud. I didn't find it any more difficult at my age than the 23 year old soldiers at OCS
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I was 37 and I wasn't the oldest in my class. We had a 40 year old and he was in top 5% in PT 1 LT Lilly who commented on this post was in my class and she was tops in our class of nearly 90 that graduated. At 30 you're just started to peak so go for it and forget any negative thoughts.
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LCpl Ben Spalding
Thank you. I appreciate the support and info. I am trying I think I will go for Army OCS. I want to be a tanker. However I know that it might not happen.
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I wouldn't think so, just as long as you are physically and mentally ready for the stressors involved.
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