Steps to become a military officer after college

Hey, I'm interested in becoming a military officer after college. What's the process like? Do I need a specific degree? Any advice is welcome!

To become a military officer after completing your college degree, you will typically need to go through Officer Candidate School (OCS) or Officer Training School (OTS), depending on the branch of the military you are interested in.

The steps generally include:

1. Completing your degree. You do not need to major in a specific subject, but note that some roles or branches might have preferences or requirements. For example, technical roles may prefer candidates with STEM degrees.

2. Meeting physical and age requirements. Each branch has its own set of physical and age requirements that you’ll need to meet. Typically, officer candidates will be required to pass a physical fitness test. The age limit varies from branch to branch, but most require officers to be commissioned before the age of 30 or 35.

3. Application process. You'll need to submit an application package to the desired branch. This normally includes, but is not limited to, letters of recommendation, a resume, and official transcripts from your college or university.

4. Attending Officer Candidate School or Officer Training School. Upon selection, you will attend OCS or OTS. During this time, you will receive both classroom and field training. The duration of this school varies among branches.

5. Commissioning. After completing OCS or OTS, you'll be commissioned as an officer in your chosen branch of the military.

6. Attending additional training. Depending on your branch and specific role, you may need to complete further training or education.

Remember, this process can be competitive, so doing well academically and staying physically fit can boost your chances of success. Lastly, consider reaching out to a local recruiter for your chosen branch. They can provide the most current information and help guide you through the process.