Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 5/5/2008

Question
Dr. Colonel,

What are the requirements of becoming a Commissioned officer in the US Army? If I already have a bachelor's degree and I join the army, how do i go about getting accepted into OCS? And how do i get guaranteed acceptance into OCS put on my contract by talking with the recruiter?

Answer
Dear John --

As a college graduate (if it is from an accredited college or university) you are a high quality candidate.  You should be able to negotiate riders on your contract to guarantee the opportunity to earn the schools you want.

You must insist on the rider for Officer Candidate School when you talk to your recruiter, and it must be in writing in your contract when you sign it at the Military Entry Point (MEPS).  If it is not in your contract at the MEPS -- do not sign your contract -- just leave.  You are under no obligation until you sign.  Do not be pressured into signing a contract that does not give you the opportunities you negotiated.

You must also understand the OCS rider can only be exercised, if you meet the performance criteria during your initial entry training.  So if you have an OCS rider, but barely graduate from basic training, you will not be allowed to exercise your OCS rider.  This is not a breach of contract on the military's part, and you will have to serve your obligation term as an enlisted member if you do not qualify for OCS or you do not pass OCS once enrolled.

If your recruiter says there are no OCS billets available, then leave and come back another time.  Opportunities change weekly.  Do not be pressured into accepting less than you deserve.  You can also try a different recruiting station.  Stations and recruiters vary, so find one that will work with you to get you the opportunities you desire.

Good luck to you.  Thank you fro considering military service.