The Army devotes a considerable amount of time to training its future leaders. One of the ways they accomplish this goal is through Officer Candidate School. This program puts interested individuals on the path to becoming an Army leader in one of 16 unique career fields.
With the help of the Officer Candidate School, these individuals earn their commission to serve in either active duty or the Army Reserve. Either way, they are a leader in their field.
Am I Eligible?
Although you may be interested in Officer Candidate School, it does not mean you are eligible to apply. There are two options for enlisting in this program:
1. Active Army. If you are in the Army, speak with a recruiter to obtain more information on the application process and how to best move forward.
2. College option. With this option, applicants are required to enter active duty before the age of 30. Reserve officers are required to enter active duty before the age of 35.
Requirements
In addition to the age restrictions detailed above, applicants are required to be at least 18 years old, a college graduate, and a citizen of the United States. As a high school senior, you are also eligible to apply for Officer Candidate School.
Training
Upon enrolling in Officer Candidate School, you will begin to learn lessons related to military skills, leadership, and field training. In addition to learning in the field, you will spend a lot of time in the classroom.
Candidates begin by attending nine weeks of basic training. From there, candidates move onto Officer Candidate School in Fort Benning, Georgia. Whether or not you are currently enlisted in the Army or new to the Army will determine which courses you take.
Officer Candidate School is for those who want to obtain more than a traditional college degree. These people want to be leaders in the Army. Although the Army Officer Candidate Course is 12 weeks of intense training, it is well worth it in the long run.
The training that you receive will develop you into a soldier who is mentally and physically ready to lead. The two phases of the course include:
– Phase 1: during this time, you will focus on developing basic skills that will help you excel as a commissioned officer.
– Phase 2: the skills you have acquired in the classroom are put to test in the field. At this time, you will be tested time after time to ensure that your leadership abilities are up to par. During an 18-day training mission, you will put to use your skills in a variety of ways.
Is Officer Candidate School a challenge? Most definitely. However, once you complete the course you will be in position to become a well-respected Army leader. Does it get any better than that?
