Participating in SMP as a College Student

Hey guys, I've been hearing about the Simultaneous Membership Program (SMP) while browsing around for ways to join the military as a college student. Can anyone explain how it works and what its benefits are? Are there specific requirements to join? Would love some inside info, thanks!

Sure, happy to explain it for you! The Simultaneous Membership Program (SMP) is a program where college-level students can become members of both the Army National Guard or Army Reserve and their school's Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC). Essentially, it lets you experience enlisted service and earn additional military training as an Officer Cadet at the same time while attending a college or a university.

Here are the benefits:

1. Monthly stipends dependent on your year in school, e.g., $420/month for Seniors.

2. E-5 (Sergeant) drill pay, which is subject to change, but currently roughly $314 for a weekend.

3. Scholarship opportunities that can pay for your tuition along with book stipends.

4. Opportunity to commission as an officer upon graduation.

To join the program you need to:

1. Be a U.S citizen

2. Be between 17 and 26 years of age.

3. Have a high school diploma.

4. Pass the physical fitness test and meet the army's physical medical requirements.

5. Have a minimum GPA of 2.5.

6. Have a high school diploma or equivalent.

7. Agree to accept a commission and serve in the Army post-graduation.

Keep in mind that, as an SMP member, you're non-deployable. It means you won't be sent outside of the States while you’re still in college. It's a path to becoming an officer and serves as a stepping stone toward learning leadership and taking on a leadership role once you graduate and commission.