Do you have to be an E5 to put your packet in for OCS, or can that be at anytime? Also, do you need a four year degree?

2018-06-15T13:48:38-04:00

Prior Army cadet who decided to enlist instead. I was told that once I hit E5 that I would be aple to put my packet in for OCS, but was also told I could do it at any time? Do you need a four year degree, or does it just give you a higher chance of being able to attend OCS? Putting my packet in is a more long term goal, I have short term goals as well.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2018 1:53 PM

2018-06-15T13:53:19-04:00

You’ll need a bachelors degree in something before you can submit your packet, also you don’t need to be an E-5 for the packet. You could submit at SPC(P) but SGT looks better as far as your packet goes. However it all depends on the board when they look at your packet. Best of luck

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2018 3:31 PM

2018-06-15T15:31:38-04:00

There is no rank requirement to submit an OCS packet. I’ve recently submitted mine and I haven’t reached my zone to even become a SPC (P). I’m also pretty sure that you do not need a completed bachelors degree to submit a packet. If I’m not mistaken, the rule is you have to have atleast 90 college credits or so in order to submit the packet. However, if you get accepted without a completed degree, you have to finish your degree by the time you reach CPT I believe. Granted it may look better to submit a packet at E5 and with a completed degree but that shouldn’t completely stop your motivation from wanting to apply.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2018 10:52 PM

2018-06-15T22:52:29-04:00

Here are the requirements for OCS.

https://www.thebalancecareers.com/so-you-want-to-be-an-officer-3345027

So, You Want to Be an Officer? All About OCS

How to become an officer in the United States Military. This page covers applying for Army Officer Candidate School (OCS).

Response by CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana made Jun 16 at 2018 3:10 AM

2018-06-16T03:10:26-04:00

Rank has its privileges, but not at OCS. Apply and then see what happens; don't speculate negatives prior to even planting seeds PFC Private RallyPoint Member. Speculation and presumptions are our own worst enemies. Try and don't retreat till you succeed.