[expand title=”If I join Air Force ROTC, does that mean I am joining the military?” alt=”If I join Air Force ROTC, does that mean I am joining the military?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
No, you are entering what is essentially a four-year job interview. Non-scholarship freshman and sophomore cadets in the program can try out the program for the up to two years without committing to join the military. If you received a High School Scholarship, you can choose to leave the program at the end of your freshman year with no obligation. Those on scholarship or upperclassman cadets are contracted to complete the program and commission into the military.
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[expand title=”What is the difference between Junior ROTC in high school and ROTC in college?” alt=”What is the difference between Junior ROTC in high school and ROTC in college?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
The mission of the Junior ROTC program through high school is to develop citizens of character dedicated to serving their nation and community. The mission of the college ROTC program is to develop leaders of character for tomorrow’s Air Force.
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[expand title=”Do I have to be in Junior ROTC in high school to be eligible for ROTC in college?” alt=”Do I have to be in Junior ROTC in high school to be eligible for ROTC in college?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
In fact, many students enrolled in AFROTC programs in college have never been involved in the Junior ROTC program.
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[expand title=”Do I have to join Air Force ROTC as a freshman?” alt=”Do I have to join Air Force ROTC as a freshman?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
No. Any undergraduate student with three or more years remaining should be eligible. So if you are a second-semester freshman, a sophomore or otherwise and have at least three years remaining in your undergraduate studies, you are likely able to join the ROTC program.
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[expand title=”Can I enroll if I did not take Air Force ROTC as a freshman?” alt=”Can I enroll if I did not take Air Force ROTC as a freshman?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes. You can enroll in Aerospace Studies 101 and Aerospace Studies 201 and be what we call dual enrolled.
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[expand title=”Can I attend Air Force ROTC without a scholarship?” alt=”Can I attend Air Force ROTC without a scholarship?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes, you can. Many of cadets do not start with an AFROTC scholarship, but earn one eventually through their time in the program. You are still able to apply for additional financial assistance through the university.
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[expand title=”Is preference shown toward scholarship cadets?” alt=”Is preference shown toward scholarship cadets?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Definitely not! The fact that a cadet may have an Air Force ROTC scholarship has no bearing on an Air Force career. Nor does it make any difference while in the Air Force ROTC program.
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[expand title=”Are there any restrictions as to what students select as their academic major?” alt=”Are there any restrictions as to what students select as their academic major?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Some jobs in the Air Force require specific academic majors to be eligible. However, we encourage you to take a curriculum you are interested in and in which you have the capability to do well. Our main academic concern is that you maintain a Grade Point Average (GPA) above 2.0 and attain your degree in the time period planned. The GPA requirements are different if you are applying for a scholarship and once you are on scholarship.
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[expand title=”Can I pursue graduate education after I am commissioned?” alt=”Can I pursue graduate education after I am commissioned?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
The Air Force is education-oriented and financially supports graduate studies. You can apply for the Air Force Institute of Technology to earn an advanced degree on full scholarship or apply for the Tuition Assistance program that helps pays the tuition cost while on active duty.
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[expand title=”What is the Air Force Officer Qualification Test (AFOQT) and how can I take it? ” alt=”What is the Air Force Officer Qualification Test (AFOQT) and how can I take it?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
The AFOQT is a standardized test, like the ACT/SAT, designed to measure verbal and mathematical aptitude. It is typically taken during the freshman or sophomore year in the AFROTC program. You must pass the Verbal and Quantitative portions of the AFOQT to remain a cadet. To be competitive for rated jobs such as a pilot or Air Battle Manager, you must also score well in separate categories. The AFOQT can be taken during the fall or spring semester at Syracuse University or scheduled at an education center near you.
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[expand title=”I am prior service or JROTC/CAP/Military Academy experience – do I have to attend the General Military Course (GMC)? ” alt=”I am prior service or JROTC/CAP/Military Academy experience – do I have to attend the General Military Course (GMC)? ” excerptclass=”highlight”]
The Professor of Aerospace Studies may waive some of the GMC requirements if you have previous military experience. This is determined by the amount and kind of experience you had when you departed.
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[expand title=”If I take Air Force ROTC classes, am I committed to military or government service once I join?” alt=”If I take Air Force ROTC classes, am I committed to military or government service once I join?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
There is no service commitment for students who take our classes with no intention of becoming an Air Force officer. For these types of students, it is only another class. If you are interested in becoming an officer, there is no service commitment during the first two years of the Air Force ROTC program (the General Military Course) unless you have an Air Force ROTC scholarship. If you decide to stay and compete to join the Professional Officer Course (POC); the last two years of the program), you will sign an allocation contract with the Air Force and then incur a service obligation. For Air Force ROTC scholarship students, you are obligated once you have activated the scholarship and have entered your sophomore year.
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[expand title=”What are the other Air Force commissioning opportunities?” alt=”What are the other Air Force commissioning opportunities?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Other commissioning opportunities exist through the United States Air Force Academy.
Commissioning opportunities for college graduates also exist through Officer Training School, an intense 12-week program at Maxwell Air Force Base.
Commissioned Officer Training is a four-week program designed for professionals who have received a direct commissioned appointment as a lawyer, chaplain or into a corps of the medical service.
Reserve Commissioned Officer Training is a 13-day intensive program designed for hard-to-recruit Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard medical service officers.
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[expand title=”Are there special programs for active-duty Airmen?” alt=”Are there special programs for active-duty Airmen?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes. There are several programs available. Some involve scholarship opportunities while others are at your own expense. Remember, the first step in any Airman-to-officer program is a stop at your base Education Office. Each of these programs has deadlines and age limitations, so check early.
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[expand title=”Do I receive any ROTC credit for Junior ROTC?” alt=”Do I receive any ROTC credit for Junior ROTC?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes, you can. Three years of Junior ROTC (JROTC) can be considered equal to three semesters of the General Military Course (GMC), and two years are equal to one year of the GMC. No credit is given for less than two years of JROTC training.
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[expand title=”If I encounter academic or personal problems, where can I turn for help?” alt=”If I encounter academic or personal problems, where can I turn for help?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
First, try your Air Force ROTC detachment instructor. While the instructor may not have a psychology degree, he or she does have experience in counseling and can direct you to the proper resources. Air Force ROTC instructors try to develop a strong professional rapport with each cadet. Each university also offers various resource offices for their students and many services are free as part of your student fees.
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[expand title=”Is the Four-Year Program more advantageous for students?” alt=”Is the Four-Year Program more advantageous for students?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes, for the following reasons:
- It gives you more time to participate in Air Force ROTC without obligation, to gain experience and to decide whether you want to apply for the advanced program, the POC.
- You will have the opportunity to apply for scholarships if eligible.
- You can retake the Air Force Officer Qualification (AFOQT) test to improve your scores.
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Cadet Life
[expand title=”Do I have to cut my hair?” alt=”Do I have to cut my hair?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Hair must be kept in accordance with Air Force guidelines when in uniform.
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[expand title=”Do I have to wear a uniform to class every day?” alt=”Do I have to wear a uniform to class every day?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
The only time cadets are required to wear their uniform is during Physical Training sessions, Aerospace Studies class, and Leadership Laboratory – essentially any time you are in a required AFROTC event or meeting with the Detachment cadre. Occasionally, during special events, you may be required to wear your uniform. Otherwise, you are free to wear civilian attire.
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[expand title=”How much time do I have to spend with Air Force ROTC each week?” alt=”How much time do I have to spend with Air Force ROTC each week?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
The only required time is during your Air Force ROTC classes, Leadership Laboratory, and Physical Training sessions. (This equates to approximately five hours per week for freshmen and sophomores, seven hours per week for juniors and seniors.)
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[expand title=”How are new cadets treated?” alt=”How are new cadets treated?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Very well. Many detachments assign cadet sponsors to new students. They can help students find classes, get textbooks, learn to wear the uniform correctly, meet other cadets and learn basic customs and courtesies. It is also the responsibility of the cadet’s flight commander to help new cadets fit into the program. Many detachments also have tutoring programs and other forms of assistance. Hazing is not permitted! You will find the cadet staff and detachment staff are concerned about your well-being and progress.
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[expand title=”How much marching and drilling will I have to do?” alt=”How much marching and drilling will I have to do?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Not as much as you think. Marching/drill is sometimes practiced during your squadron time at Leadership Laboratory. There are no mandatory drill sessions outside of LLAB.
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[expand title=”When will I receive my Air Force ROTC uniform?” alt=”When will I receive my Air Force ROTC uniform?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
All new cadets will receive a detachment polo to wear. You will earn the ability to wear your military uniform after reaching milestones within the AFROTC program such as passing the AFOQT, completing your first Physical Fitness Assessment, or enrolling in the program for a full semester. From that point, you can start to wear the uniform and will be responsible for keeping the uniforms clean and presentable.
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[expand title=”Can I participate in intercollegiate athletics while a member of the Air Force ROTC program?” alt=”Can I participate in intercollegiate athletics while a member of the Air Force ROTC program?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes. Extracurricular campus activities and Air Force ROTC are perfectly compatible – as long as you do not overload yourself with extracurricular activities. A serious physical injury while participating in intercollegiate or intramural athletic activities may cause you to be un-enrolled from Air Force ROTC because of a change in your physical profile. Your main job while a cadet is to not neglect your studies, you must complete an undergraduate degree in order to commission into the military.
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Careers
[expand title=”What is the commitment to the Air Force upon graduation?” alt=”What is the commitment to the Air Force upon graduation?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
It is job specific in some cases, but most officers have a four-year commitment to serve on active duty before they can separate from the military. For the rated positions with additional training requirements such as Pilot (10 years after pilot training) or Combat Systems Officers, Air Battle Managers, Combat Rescue Officers, or Remotely Piloted Aircraft (each have a six-year commitment after job-specific training is complete). You may stay longer in the military if you so choose.
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[expand title=”When do I know what job I will be doing for the Air Force as an officer?” alt=”When do I know what job I will be doing for the Air Force as an officer?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
You will compete in a selection process much like the one of an Enrollment Allocation as an officer candidate to compete to attend Field Training. The factors to be used will include your Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT) scores, your Field Training performance, your Grade Point Average (GPA), your academic major, your Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) score and the Detachment Commander’s rating. You will apply for jobs in your third year of the program and find out about a year before you are scheduled to graduate.
[/expand]
[expand title=”Do I have to become a pilot or combat systems officer?” alt=”Do I have to become a pilot or combat systems officer?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
No. Many Air Force jobs do not involve flying at all. If you do not wish to fly you will not need to apply to do so. In the civilian world there are thousands of jobs and careers – doctors, lawyers, law enforcement, engineers, financial careers, food-service management – the list is endless. For almost every civilian out in the workforce, there is an Air Force officer counterpart performing a similar job.
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[expand title=”When do I actually receive my commission as an Air Force officer?” alt=”When do I actually receive my commission as an Air Force officer?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Cadet in the AFROTC program normally get commissioned in a special ceremony the same day they graduate, around May of their senior year.
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[expand title=”Must a student go on active duty in the Air Force immediately following graduation and commissioning?” alt=”Must a student go on active duty in the Air Force immediately following graduation and commissioning?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
- Not necessarily, you may have up to a year delay before entering active duty. Some new lieutenants leave within a few months of graduating, but you will be notified of any date changes.
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[expand title=”Can I continue my education beyond the baccalaureate level?” alt=”Can I continue my education beyond the baccalaureate level?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes. The Air Force offers several opportunities to do so. In many cases you can request an educational delay. This delay between the time of commissioning and reporting for active duty will be of sufficient length to allow you to fulfill the requirements for a professional or masters degree. You will assume all financial obligations. There are also Air Force Institute of Technology programs where the Air Force pays for your graduate school education. These programs are explained in detail in Air Force ROTC.
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[expand title=”I do not have 20/20 vision. Can I still fly?” alt=”I do not have 20/20 vision. Can I still fly?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
It depends. Check out the Flying Requirements for more information.
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[expand title=”Do I have to major in Aerospace Science to become a pilot or combat systems officer?” alt=”Do I have to major in Aerospace Science to become a pilot or combat systems officer?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
No. Your academic major plays a minor role in pilot and combat systems officer selection. You can major in any degree program and compete to receive a pilot or combat systems officer slot in Air Force ROTC. You can even be on an Air Force ROTC scholarship in an engineering or science major and compete on an equal basis for a flying position.
[/expand]
[expand title=”What are the age limits for a cadet to compete for a pilot or combat systems officer position?” alt=”What are the age limits for a cadet to compete for a pilot or combat systems officer position?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
To compete for the pilot or combat systems officer categories, you must be able to complete your bachelors degree and be commissioned through Air Force ROTC before you are 29 years old.
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[expand title=”Will I be behind my fellow nonmilitary graduates after I complete my service obligation and decide to get out?” alt=”Will I be behind my fellow nonmilitary graduates after I complete my service obligation and decide to get out?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
No. In fact, many companies prefer to hire former officers over new college graduates (even those with masters degrees). Your Air Force experience, the management skills you have gained on active duty and your active-duty educational benefits can give you the competitive edge you need.
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[expand title=”How do Air Force ROTC graduates compare with Air Force Academy and Officer Training School graduates?” alt=”How do Air Force ROTC graduates compare with Air Force Academy and Officer Training School graduates?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
The Academy, ROTC and Officer Training School all produce qualified Air Force officers. The Air Force achieves better diversity and talent by getting officers from more than one commissioning source. Once on active duty, the most important factor in promotion is job performance.
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Scholarship
[expand title=”If I apply for the scholarship, am I obligated to the Air Force in any way?” alt=”If I apply for the scholarship, am I obligated to the Air Force in any way?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
No. Applying for an Air Force ROTC scholarship does not obligate you in any way. Four-year scholarship recipients do not incur any obligation until the start of their sophomore year in college.
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[expand title=”Can I withdraw my application?” alt=”Can I withdraw my application?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes. You may withdraw your application at any time by emailing csp@maxwell.af.mil, sending a fax to 334-953-4384 or writing to the High School Scholarship Program at HQ AFROTC/RRUC, 551 E. Maxwell Blvd., Maxwell AFB AL 36112-5917.
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[expand title=”Can I apply for other officer training programs and military scholarships?” alt=”Can I apply for other officer training programs and military scholarships?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes. You may apply for any other officer training program and even receive scholarship offers from more than one service. However, once you enroll in another program, you will be removed from further Air Force ROTC scholarship competition. Notify the College Scholarships Selections Section immediately if you accept and enroll in another program.
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[expand title=”If I choose to leave one of the other officer training programs, can I still apply for an in-college Air Force ROTC scholarship?” alt=”If I choose to leave one of the other officer training programs, can I still apply for an in-college Air Force ROTC scholarship?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes. You may apply for one of the Air Force ROTC scholarships of less than four years if a waiver is granted.
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[expand title=”How do I check on the status of my scholarship application?” alt=”How do I check on the status of my scholarship application?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
- Go Online to check the status of your application.
- Call 866-423-7682 and speak with a scholarship technician.
- Contact your Regional Director Of Admissions.
Immediately notify the High School Scholarship Program in writing or csp@maxwell.af.mil email if your name, current mailing address, social security number, telephone number or email address changes during the application process.
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[expand title=”When and how will I be notified if I have been offered a scholarship?” alt=”When and how will I be notified if I have been offered a scholarship?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
If offered an Air Force ROTC scholarship, you will be notified in writing after the scholarship selection boards meet.
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[expand title=”If I am offered a scholarship, how will it be presented?” alt=”If I am offered a scholarship, how will it be presented?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Normally, an Air Force officer will come to your school and present the scholarship during your school’s annual awards day at the end of the year. Even if you choose not to accept the scholarship offer, you can still have it presented at your school. Although you can choose not to have the scholarship presented, you deserve to be recognized for your accomplishments.
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[expand title=”What kind of scholarships does Air Force ROTC offer?” alt=”What kind of scholarships does Air Force ROTC offer?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
The AFROTC programs offers several types of scholarships.
HSSP types of scholarships are:
- Type 1 – Pays full college tuition and fees. (Mostly in designated technical majors)
- You also receive a book stipend and monthly stipend during academic year.
In College Scholarship Program and Charles McGee Leadership Award:
- Type 2 – Pays college tuition and most lab fees up to $18,000 each year or up to $9,000 per semester.
- You also receive a book stipend and monthly stipend during academic year.
Air Force ROTC scholarships are not activated until the student enlists in the Obligated Reserve Section of the Air Force Reserve, signs a contract, and passes the medical, moral, fitness, and physical qualifications for enlistment and contracting. Scholarship benefits are not payable until 45 days after the start of the fall term.
Air Force ROTC scholarships cannot pay for room and board. Although at Syracuse University, SU offers AFROTC scholarship cadets a grant that will cover their room and board for their time in school.
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[expand title=”What majors are eligible for this program?” alt=”What majors are eligible for this program?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Air Force ROTC offers scholarships in academic majors needed to meet the needs of the Air Force. This includes both technical majors and nontechnical majors. We strongly urge you to carefully consider the choices you list for an academic major on this application. You may list up to three majors, but you should only list those you will be willing to pursue. You should also ensure the major you want to pursue is offered by the school you want to attend.
Special considerations for prospective engineering or science/technical majors:
For prospective engineering or science/technical majors, you must determine if your major is approved for an Air Force ROTC scholarship at the school you want to attend.
Special consideration for prospective foreign language majors: For prospective foreign language majors, you should list a major in one of the foreign language scholarships.
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[expand title=”How do we award scholarships based on majors?” alt=”How do we award scholarships based on majors?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
The High School Scholarship program awards scholarships based on technical or non-technical degree options. You can find a list of majors at the following link: https://www.afrotc.com/scholarships/desired-majors/
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[expand title=”What are the weight and fitness standards?” alt=”What are the weight and fitness standards?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
To apply for the scholarship, you must complete the Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA). For instructions, refer to the website where you apply online.
If you are offered a scholarship, you must meet the Air Force Weight Standards prior to activating the scholarship.
If you are offered a scholarship, you must also meet the Air Force Physical Fitness Test (PFT) Standards prior to activating the scholarship. You must perform this test within a few days of starting college your freshman year.
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[expand title=”What are the vision standards?” alt=”What are the vision standards?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
The refractive error in each eye cannot exceed +/- 8.00 diopters. Also, both eyes must be free of any disfiguring or incapacitating abnormality and acute or chronic disease. A history of corneal surgical procedures such as radial keratotomy (RK), even if refractive error improves, disqualifies you for Air Force ROTC. EXCEPTION: A history of photo refractive keratectomy (PRK) does not automatically disqualify you from entry; however, certain criteria must be met before being medically certified. Adequate color vision is a prerequisite to entry into many Air Force specialties.
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[expand title=”Will I need to take a medical exam?” alt=”Will I need to take a medical exam?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
If you are selected to receive a scholarship, you will be scheduled to complete a medical examination. Scholarship winners and their parents are advised that NO SCHOLARSHIP WILL BE ACTIVATED UNTIL THE INDIVIDUAL IS MEDICALLY QUALIFIED FOR A COMMISSION. The process is lengthy and may involve several months of processing and correspondence.
The Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DODMERB) is the medical certification agency for Air Force ROTC scholarships. Scholarship winners will be scheduled for an examination by DODMERB and DODMERB will determine whether or not the individual is medically qualified for a commission. If you are found to be medically disqualified, but believe there are extenuating circumstances that justify consideration of a waiver of our medical standards, you should follow the DODMERB instructions (with the notification letter) regarding rebuttals and waiver processing. In such cases, DODMERB will discuss your case with AETC/SGPS, the medical waiver authority, to determine if a waiver to the standards is feasible. The final decision is based on the nature of your condition or defect and specific medical parameters and protocols that have been established.
For those selected to receive a scholarship, DODMERB will send you complete instructions. If you cannot meet the scheduled date, request another date. As a candidate, you are responsible for all costs of travel, food and lodging related to the medical examination and personal interview. If you wear hard contact lenses, remove them a minimum of 21 days before the examination; remove soft lenses 72 hours before the examination.
Once you have been scheduled for an examination, if you have a medical question, DODMERB is your only official source of information. Yes, but this is a complex process and should be attempted only after you have given it much thought. Depending on your current major and your proposed major, you may lose your scholarship benefits. Call the detachment you will be attending for details and procedures.
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[expand title=”Is it possible for me to change my academic major if on scholarship?” alt=”Is it possible for me to change my academic major if on scholarship?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes, but this is a complex process and should be attempted only after you have given it much thought. Depending on your current major and your proposed major, you may lose your scholarship benefits. Call the detachment you will be attending for details and procedures.
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[expand title=”What are the requirements if I were to receive a scholarship in one of the foreign languages listed?” alt=”What are the requirements if I were to receive a scholarship in one of the foreign languages listed?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
You must obtain a BA or BS in the specific foreign language major.
[/expand]
[expand title=”If my child joins Air Force ROTC, does that mean they are joining the military?” alt=”If my child joins Air Force ROTC, does that mean they are joining the military?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
No. If you got a four-year scholarship from high school, then the first year of college is paid for, and you can quit at the end of your freshman year with no obligation. If you got a three-year scholarship from high school or college then you are not committed to the Air Force until you accept your scholarship (usually in the fall of your sophomore year). If you did not get any scholarship, then you are not committed to joining the Air Force until you start your junior year of college.
With Air Force ROTC, we provide you with lots of opportunities to see what the Air Force is about before signing up. And while you are waiting, you are getting college out of the way and having a lot of fun.
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[expand title=”What is the difference between Junior ROTC in high school and ROTC in college?” alt=”What is the difference between Junior ROTC in high school and ROTC in college?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
The mission of the high school Junior ROTC program is to build better citizens for America. The mission of the college ROTC program is to produce leaders for the Air Force.
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[expand title=”Does my child have to be in Junior ROTC in high school to be eligible for ROTC in college?” alt=”Does my child have to be in Junior ROTC in high school to be eligible for ROTC in college?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
No. In fact, the majority of students enrolled in college ROTC have never been involved in the Junior ROTC program.
[/expand]
[expand title=”Does my child have to join Air Force ROTC as a freshman?” alt=”Does my child have to join Air Force ROTC as a freshman?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
No. Any undergraduate student with more than two years remaining should be eligible for our program. So if they are a second-semester freshman or a sophomore, then they can join.
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[expand title=”Can my child enroll if they did not take Air Force ROTC as a freshman?” alt=”Can my child enroll if they did not take Air Force ROTC as a freshman?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes. They can enroll in Air Force ROTC.
[/expand]
[expand title=”Can my child attend Air Force ROTC without a scholarship?” alt=”Can my child attend Air Force ROTC without a scholarship?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes, they can. Many of our students do not start with a scholarship, but earn one eventually. Still, at any given time, about 80% of our students receive financial assistance.
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[expand title=”Can my child attend Air Force ROTC without a scholarship?” alt=”Can my child attend Air Force ROTC without a scholarship?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes, they can. Many of our students do not start with a scholarship, but earn one eventually. Still, at any given time, about 80% of our students receive financial assistance.
[/expand]
[expand title=”My child did not receive an Air Force ROTC scholarship before they started college; are there scholarship opportunities while they are in college?” alt=”My child did not receive an Air Force ROTC scholarship before they started college; are there scholarship opportunities while they are in college?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes. Depending on how many years they have left in college, they may qualify for a two- or three-year scholarship.
[/expand]
[expand title=”Is preference shown toward scholarship cadets?” alt=”Is preference shown toward scholarship cadets?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Definitely not! The fact that a cadet may have an Air Force ROTC scholarship has no bearing on an Air Force career. Nor does it make any difference while in the Air Force ROTC program.
[/expand]
[expand title=”Are there any restrictions as to what students select as their academic major?” alt=”Are there any restrictions as to what students select as their academic major?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
None at all. In fact, we encourage cadets to take a curriculum they are interested in and in which they have the capability to do well. Our main academic concern is that they maintain a Grade Point Average (GPA) above 2.0 and attain their degree in the time period planned. The GPA requirements are different if they are applying for a scholarship and once they are on scholarship.
[/expand]
[expand title=”Can my child pursue graduate education after they are commissioned?” alt=”Can my child pursue graduate education after they are commissioned?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
The Air Force is education-oriented and financially supports graduate studies. They can apply for the Air Force Institute of Technology to earn an advanced degree on full scholarship. Additionally, most bases have graduate college programs, and they may apply for the tuition assistance program that pays 100% of the tuition cost.
[/expand]
[expand title=”How often can someone take the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT)?” alt=”How often can someone take the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT)?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
The test is given several times during the fall and spring and can be taken a maximum of two times with at least six months between tests.
[/expand]
[expand title=”If my child takes Air Force ROTC classes, are they committed to military or government service once they join?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
There is no service commitment for students who take our classes with no intention of becoming an Air Force officer. For these types of students, it is only another class. If they are interested in becoming an officer, there is no service commitment during the first two years of the Air Force ROTC program (the General Military Course) unless they have an Air Force ROTC scholarship. If they decide to stay and join the Professional Officer Course (POC); the last two years of the program, they’ll sign an allocation contract with the Air Force and then incur a service obligation. For Air Force ROTC scholarship students, they are obligated once they have activated the scholarship and have entered their sophomore year.
[/expand]
[expand title=”If a cadet encounters academic or personal problems, where can they turn for help?” alt=”If a cadet encounters academic or personal problems, where can they turn for help?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
First, they should try their Air Force ROTC detachment instructor. While the instructor may not have a psychology degree, he or she does have experience in counseling and can direct them to the proper resources. Air Force ROTC instructors try to develop a strong professional rapport with each cadet. Each university also offers various resource offices for their students and many services are free as part of the student fees.
[/expand]
[expand title=”Is the Four-Year Program more advantageous for students?” alt=”Is the Four-Year Program more advantageous for students?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes, for the following reasons:
- It gives you more time to participate in Air Force ROTC without obligation, to gain experience and to decide whether you want to apply for the advanced program, the POC.
- You will have the opportunity to apply for scholarships if eligible.
- You can retake the Air Force Officer Qualification (AFOQT) test to improve your scores.
[/expand]
Careers
[expand title=”What is the commitment to the Air Force upon graduation?” alt=”What is the commitment to the Air Force upon graduation?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Most officers have a four-year commitment. For pilots it is 10 years after pilot training and six years for combat systems officers after training. Air Battle Managers have a six-year commitment
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[expand title=”When will cadets know what job they will be doing for the Air Force as an officer?” alt=”When will cadets know what job they will be doing for the Air Force as an officer?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
They will compete in a selection process much like the one of an enrollment allocation as an officer candidate. The factors to be used will include their Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT) scores, their camp performance rating, their grade point average (GPA), their academic major, their Physical Fitness Test (PFT) score and the Detachment Commander’s rating. They will know their specific Air Force job category approximately six months before they are commissioned.
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[expand title=”Do all cadets have to become a pilot or combat systems officer?” alt=”Do all cadets have to become a pilot or combat systems officer? “excerptclass=”highlight”]
No. The vast majority of Air Force jobs do not involve flying at all. In the civilian world, there are thousands of jobs and careers – doctors, lawyers, law enforcement, engineers, financial careers, food-service management – the list is endless. For almost every civilian out in the workforce, there is an Air Force officer counterpart performing a similar job.
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[expand title=”When do cadets actually receive their commission as an Air Force officer?” alt=”When do cadets actually receive their commission as an Air Force officer?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Cadets normally get commissioned in a special ceremony the same day they graduate. They can expect to enter active duty about 30 days after graduation.
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[expand title=”Will my child go on active duty in the Air Force immediately following graduation and commissioning?” alt=”Will my child go on active duty in the Air Force immediately following graduation and commissioning?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Not necessarily. They may request an educational delay if they desire to attend graduate school at their own expense before going on active duty. If approved, the Air Force will postpone their active-duty tour. Delays are routinely provided if they select to attend dental or medical school. Scholarships also exist for students accepted to medical school.
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[expand title=”Can my child continue their education beyond the baccalaureate level?” alt=”Can my child continue their education beyond the baccalaureate level?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes. The Air Force offers several opportunities to do so. In many cases they can request an educational delay. This delay between the time of commissioning and reporting for active duty will be of sufficient length to allow them to fulfill the requirements for a professional or master’s degree. They will assume all financial obligations. There are also Air Force Institute of Technology programs where the Air Force pays for their graduate school education. These programs are explained in detail in Air Force ROTC.
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[expand title=”Is a major in Aeronautical Science required to become a pilot or combat systems officer?” alt=”Can my child continue their education beyond the baccalaureate level?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
No. Academic major plays a minor role in pilot and combat systems officer selection. Cadets can major in any degree program and compete to receive a pilot or combat systems officer slot in Air Force ROTC. They can even be on an Air Force ROTC scholarship in an engineering or science major and compete on an equal basis for a flying position.
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[expand title=”What are the age limits for a cadet to compete for a pilot or combat systems officer position?” alt=”What are the age limits for a cadet to compete for a pilot or combat systems officer position?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
To compete for the pilot or combat systems officer categories, a cadet must be able to complete their bachelor’s degree and be commissioned through Air Force ROTC before they are 29 years old.
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[expand title=”Will my child be behind their fellow nonmilitary graduates after they complete their service obligation and decide to get out?” alt=”Will my child be behind their fellow nonmilitary graduates after they complete their service obligation and decide to get out?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
No. In fact, many companies prefer to hire former officers over new college graduates (even those with masters degrees). Their Air Force experience, the management skills they have gained on active duty and their active-duty educational benefits can give them the competitive edge they need.
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[expand title=”How do Air Force ROTC graduates compare with Air Force Academy and Officer Training School graduates?” alt=”How do Air Force ROTC graduates compare with Air Force Academy and Officer Training School graduates?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
The Academy, ROTC and Officer Training School all produce qualified Air Force officers. The Air Force achieves better diversity and talent by getting officers from more than one commissioning source. Once on active duty, the most important factor in promotion is job performance.
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College Life
[expand title=”Will my child have to cut his/her hair?” alt=”Will my child have to cut his/her hair?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Hair must be kept in accordance with Air Force guidelines when in uniform.
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[expand title=”Do cadets have to wear a uniform to class every day?” alt=”Do cadets have to wear a uniform to class every day?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
No. Cadets are only required to wear their uniform to their Air Force ROTC classes and on Leadership Lab day once a week. Occasionally, during special events, they may be required to wear their uniform.
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[expand title=”How much time will my child have to spend with Air Force ROTC each week?” alt=”How much time will my child have to spend with Air Force ROTC each week?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
The only required time is during your Air Force ROTC classes, Leadership Lab and physical fitness training. (This equates to approximately four hours per week for freshmen and sophomores; six hours per week for juniors and seniors.)
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[expand title=”How are new cadets treated?” alt=”How are new cadets treated?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Very well. Many detachments assign cadet sponsors to new students. They can help students find classes, get textbooks, learn to wear the uniform correctly, meet other cadets and learn basic customs and courtesies. It is also the responsibility of the cadet’s flight commander to help new cadets fit into the program. Many detachments also have tutoring programs and other forms of assistance. Hazing is not permitted! You will find the cadet staff and detachment staff are concerned about your child’s well-being and progress.
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[expand title=”How much marching and drilling will cadets have to do?” alt=”How much marching and drilling will cadets have to do?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Not as much as you may think. Marching/drill is sometimes practiced during squadron time at Leadership Laboratory. There are no mandatory drill sessions outside of LLAB.
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[expand title=”When will cadets receive their Air Force ROTC uniform?” alt=”When will cadets receive their Air Force ROTC uniform?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Within the first couple of class periods, we will issue cadets a complete uniform and tell them how to arrange for having alterations completed (at no cost to them). However, they are responsible for keeping the uniform clean and presentable.
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[expand title=”Will my child be expected to participate in any extracurricular activities?” alt=”Will my child be expected to participate in any extracurricular activities?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Their first and foremost concern is attending classes and maintaining good grades. After this, they will certainly want to examine some of the various activities sponsored by both their university and Air Force ROTC. There is something in our program of interest to everyone.
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[expand title=”Can my child participate in intercollegiate athletics while a member of the Air Force ROTC program?” excerptclass=”highlight”]
Yes. Generally, extracurricular campus activities and Air Force ROTC are perfectly compatible – as long as they do not overload with extracurricular activities. A serious physical injury while participating in intercollegiate or intramural athletic activities may cause them to be un-enrolled from Air Force ROTC because of a change in their physical profile.
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