Posted on Aug 6, 2015
Any advice for trying to go to Officer Candidate School?
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I am nearing the completion of my degree program at my current school ( BA - International Relations at AMU) and I am considering applying for OCS. What are my chances of being accepted into the program? Currently, I am a Staff Sergeant with five years active federal service. Any and all advice from those who have gone through this process would be helpful.
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 67
Matthew, prior service officers are rare and valued. Once you have your degree, you have a clean discipline record, and the recommendation of a few O-6's or above (and they are usually happy to do this for you) acceptance into OCS is/was pretty easy. You've already been through PLDC and more at the NCO academy - OCS will not be any worse, just your tact's will be O-3s - don't laugh when they say something stupid, just do it with enthusiasm. Just hold your breath for three months and your done, and you're off to the branch specific officer basic course - too easy for an experienced NCO.
Good Luck, Mo Vanderslice
Good Luck, Mo Vanderslice
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LCDR Bruce Cooley
It helped me, although friends of mine had to get O-7's...... In the Navy it apparently depended greatly on who you're working though.
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As long as you have the GT score and good morale character you should make it in SSG. The challenge comes in making it through the program. OCS is designed to show you who you truly are. Many fold and some rise to the occasion. Keep an open mind and understand that Officers and NCO's have different responsibilities and you will learn a great deal. Good luck. I'm sure you'll do fine. 2LT Hollis formerly SSG Hollis.
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Soldiers definitely appreciate officers who were once enlisted! It's a different job and mindset, so be sure that is the direction you want to take your career. You also have to consider the chance of not getting the same branch you're in now or want to be in later. Good luck either way!
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