National Guard Officer Candidate School (OCS) Requirements
The National Guard Officer Candidate School (OCS) is a training program designed to prepare individuals for commissioned officer positions within the National Guard. To be eligible for OCS, candidates must meet specific requirements, which are outlined below.
Basic Requirements
To be considered for OCS, candidates must meet the following basic requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be between the ages of 17 and 35 (with some exceptions for older candidates)
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Have a minimum score of 110 on the General Technical (GT) section of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
- Pass a physical fitness test
- Meet medical standards for military service
Education Requirements
OCS candidates must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. The degree can be in any field, but candidates with degrees in fields such as engineering, computer science, and business are often given preference.
Leadership Experience
While not required, having leadership experience can be beneficial for OCS candidates. This experience can be gained through participation in extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or previous military service.
Physical Fitness Requirements
OCS candidates must be physically fit and pass a physical fitness test. The test consists of:
- Push-ups: 30-40 in one minute
- Sit-ups: 30-40 in one minute
- 2-mile run: 14-16 minutes
Medical Requirements
OCS candidates must meet medical standards for military service. This includes:
- Passing a medical examination
- Meeting body fat percentage requirements
- Having a valid prescription for corrective lenses (if needed)
Background Check
OCS candidates must undergo a background check and receive a favorable adjudication.
Other Requirements
Additional requirements for OCS include:
- Being a member of the National Guard
- Having a minimum credit score of 600
- Not having any felony convictions
- Not being a conscientious objector
OCS Application Process
The OCS application process typically involves the following steps:
- Initial Application: Candidates submit an initial application package, which includes:
- Completed application form
- Resume
- Transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Medical records
- ASVAB Testing: Candidates take the ASVAB test to assess their aptitude for military service.
- Physical Fitness Test: Candidates take a physical fitness test to assess their physical abilities.
- Interviews: Candidates participate in interviews with a National Guard recruiter and/or an OCS selection board.
- Background Check: Candidates undergo a background check.
- Medical Examination: Candidates undergo a medical examination.
- OCS Selection Board: Candidates appear before an OCS selection board, which reviews their application package and makes a recommendation for OCS attendance.
OCS Training
Once selected for OCS, candidates attend a 12-14 week training program at the National Guard’s Officer Candidate School. The training program includes:
- Leadership development
- Tactical training
- First aid and combat skills
- Physical fitness training
- Map reading and navigation
- Military protocol and procedures
📝 Note: OCS training is physically and mentally demanding, and candidates must be prepared to push themselves to their limits.
Commissioning
Upon completion of OCS, candidates are commissioned as second lieutenants in the National Guard. Commissioning involves:
- Taking the oath of office
- Receiving a commissioning certificate
- Being pinned with second lieutenant rank insignia
Post-Commissioning Requirements
After commissioning, new officers must:
- Complete a 12-month probationary period
- Attend additional training, such as the Basic Officer Leadership Course (BOLC)
- Participate in annual training exercises
- Maintain a high level of physical fitness
- Meet all requirements for their assigned Military Occupational Specialty (MOS)
In summary, becoming a commissioned officer in the National Guard through OCS requires meeting specific requirements, including education, leadership experience, physical fitness, and medical standards. Candidates must also complete a rigorous training program and meet post-commissioning requirements.
What are the basic requirements for OCS?
+
The basic requirements for OCS include being a U.S. citizen, being between the ages of 17 and 35, having a high school diploma or equivalent, and meeting medical standards for military service.
How long is OCS training?
+
OCS training typically lasts 12-14 weeks.
What happens after I complete OCS?
+
After completing OCS, you will be commissioned as a second lieutenant in the National Guard. You will then attend additional training, participate in annual training exercises, and maintain a high level of physical fitness.
Related Terms:
- National Guard OCS acceptance rate
- National Guard Bureau Accelerated OCS
- National Guard OCS age limit
- National Guard OCS Reddit
- Navy OCS requirements
- Texas National Guard OCS
