Looking into OCS After College

I'm in my junior year now, but I've been thinking about the future a lot. I'm considering going to college first and after that thinking about joining the military's officer candidate school. What's the process like, applying to OCS after getting a bachelor's degree? What are the benefits of this path compared to enlisting straight after high school? Any advice would be appreciated.

Great question, it's clear that you're thinking ahead about your post-college plans! The process for applying to Officer Candidate School (OCS) after graduation typically involves the following steps:

1. Complete your bachelor’s degree: This is a prerequisite for OCS programs across all branches of the military.

2. Contact a recruiter: They can provide the most updated information on the application process and eligibility requirements.

3. Submit your application: This might involve a few stages and could include CV submission, background checks, medical exams, and an interview process.

4. Awaiting selection: Once your application is in, you'll have to wait for election results. The selection process is competitive, as OCS is a quick path to becoming an officer.

5. Attending OCS: If selected, you will attend OCS training, the length and curriculum of which vary depending on the service branch. Upon completion, you are commissioned as a military officer.

As for whether it's better to enlist right after high school or attend OCS after college, it depends on your personal goals and circumstances. Here's a brief comparison:

Post-College OCS benefits:

- Higher initial rank: OCS graduates typically start as second lieutenants in the Army, Marine Corps, and Air Force, or as ensigns in the Navy and Coast Guard.

- Higher pay: Officers generally earn more than enlisted service members.

- Greater leadership opportunities: Officers act as the managers of the military, planning missions and making strategic decisions.

Straight-out-of-High School Enlisting benefits:

- Immediate employment: Enlisting right out of high school provides a job immediately after graduation.

- Earning potential: You can start earning and potentially saving money immediately.

- Experience: Enlisting first gives you first-hand experience with military life and could give you an edge when applying to OCS later on.

Ultimately, each path has its own set of benefits, and the best choice depends on your aspirations, circumstances, and the career you envision in the military. It's advisable to talk to a military recruiter to get detailed information about both paths, as they can provide insights specific to the branch you're interested in. Good luck with your decision!