Question by keystone3pl: Chances of getting into OCS and which program is best for me?
Ive been considering joining the military for a while now and was wondering if i had a chance to be accepted into an OCS program. I graduated from Ohio State University with a major in psychology and a minor in Communication. GPA was just over 3.0. What are my chances of being accepted and what are the major differences between each branche’s OCS programs? Any input is appreciated. Thanks!

Best answer:

Answer by K
Based on your academics at a really good school, I’d say the academic portion of your file would look great. That being said, there’s a lot more that will go into your file in any branch. I was working with USMC officer selection staff for a long time until I had a change of heart and decided to go enlisted prior to commissioning (I wanted to do everything I could to make sure I had the respect of the enlisted men/women serving under me once I did earn a commission. I also want to appreciate their experience a bit before becoming “boss on boat” so to speak). I made it up to the point of contracting for OCS, so I’m at least slightly knowledgeable.

1) PT: Your physical fitness is a huge part of your file in the applicant phase. This was especially true for USMC. When you get to the point of deciding which branch you join, I’d take some time to look at each branch’s physical fitness test parameters and gear your training to acing that test. Most branches do push ups, sit ups, and a 2mi run. USMC did pull ups, crunches (form specific, make sure you use USMC form if you’re practicing), and a 3mi run. You will be leading service members as an officer and you need to set an example, even in the realm of PT.

2) CLEAN BACKGROUND: You don’t have to have been perfect your whole life but certain offenses or missteps could DQ you from applying. Drug use (past or present) is a big no-no. If you have documented drug problems (ie- attended therapy/rehab, received drug charges, etc.) you will have big hurdles to clear. Your health is also a factor and you will have to go to MEPS to get a clean bill of health from the staff there. If you have any major medical issues it will significantly effect your chances. Getting a passing ASVAB score will also be important.

If your PT and background are good and you make a good impression with officer selection staff/recruiters, I’d say your chances are pretty good. There will be some waiting involved though, so I wouldn’t expect to walk into the recruiting office and immediately ship out. It will likely take months of hard work with your recruiter/OSO.

As for the differences between the branches, I’ll take a small crack. I applied for USMC’s program because I knew that it was the most intense, demanding OCS of any branch. Furthermore, The Basic School (a 6mo combat prep program which every USMC officer attends after commissioning) was attractive to me as well because I want a combat arms MOS. I’m not saying that other branches’ OCS programs are lax or easy, just that the USMC option was clearly more difficult/challenging. Moreover, it offered a guaranteed chance of at least some ground combat training. If you are interested in ground combat, I’d definitely go for USMC or Army. If you like the idea of traveling a ton all around the world, I’ve heard that Navy is the way to go because you could be stationed to a ship. I’ve never investigated Air Force or Coast Guard very thoroughly, so I’ll let others comment as to those.

You might consider what your service in each branch will mean vis-a-vis civilian employment upon retirement. What do you want to do after the military (even you want a full 20yrs)? Some branches might prepare you for certain civilian pursuits better than others.

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