Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 2/5/2008

Question
Hello,

I am interested in joining the Army as an officer through OCS. I have a bachelors degree in Geography (awarded in 2001). I am currently back in college earning another bachelors degree in Business Administration. I will be done with this second degree by December 2008.

I just turned 30 years old. I have heard that the Army OCS sometimes grants age waivers to those over the age limit of 29.

Do you know anything about this age waiver for those of us interested in OCS but are unfortunately over age 29?

Thank you.


Answer
Dear Renee --

Age waivers are sometimes available to well qualified candidates who exceed the maximum age to become an officer.  However, since you already have an bachelors degree, you are eligible to attend OCS now.

You could try to enlist now with a delayed entry date and an OCS rider.  You would defer your entry into the Army until you graduate (again) but your enlistment date would be the date you signed your enlistment contract.

Alternatively, you could talk to your nearest ROTC office, and see if you can join their program with an age waiver, and get your commission without attending OCS.  You would have to attend cadet basic training this summer (2008), and cadet advanced training next summer (2009).  You would not receive your commission until you graduated from cadet advanced training.  However, you would be a second lieutenant by August 2009, and on your way to the officer basic course.  In this route, you could begin your officer training in combination with finishing school.  The ROTC program does not have to be at your college, you can cross-register at another college that has the program.

Please write back if you have questions or need further information on any options recruiters or ROTC cadre discuss with you.  Best of luck to you.