FAQ

Army ROTC is a college elective you can try out for up to two years with no obligation. Unlike traditional college programs, Army ROTC gives you a wide range of experiences while you work toward a degree. You’ll combine classroom time with hands-on experience, learning skills that are sure to give you an edge over your peers when it comes time to look for a job. Whether you’re planning a career in the Army or the corporate world, Army ROTC is a smart elective course to take. As part of Army ROTC, you’ll be in the company of a diverse group of individuals with broad interests.

No. Students who enroll in ROTC don’t join the Army. They take an ROTC class for which they receive credit. It’s considered a college elective.

No. ROTC cadets go directly to college where they earn their degree.

Quite simply, leadership and management skills needed to become a U.S. Army officer or have a successful civilian career.

Students in ROTC learn through a unique program that involves both classroom and “live” situations. For instance, an ROTC cadet might be found leading classmates through adventure training, down a river in a raft, or up a mountain wall.

During the first two years, ROTC cadets have no military obligation (or the first year in the case of scholarship winners).

The ROTC program is divided into phases: The Basic Course studies Army history, organization and structure. The techniques and principles of leadership and management are stressed throughout. The Advanced Course concentrates on tactical operations and military instruction, as well as advanced techniques of management, leadership, and command.

Yes. Each year hundreds of students attending colleges nationwide receive ROTC scholarships. ROTC awards them to students studying science, engineering, nursing, business, as well as a variety of other majors.

The Army ROTC Scholarship covers FULL tuition or Room and Board up to $10,000/ year. ROTC Cadets will also receive a cadet stipend of $420/month. In addition, cadets receive a $1,200/year allowance for books.

ROTC scholarships are not based on financial need. Instead, they’re awarded on merit. Merit is exhibited in academic achievement and extracurricular activities, such as sports, student government or part-time work.

No. Anyone can enroll in ROTC. And regardless of whether you’re a scholarship winner or not, all ROTC books, supplies and equipment are furnished at no cost to you.

National Scholarships are awarded following three boards. High school students may apply between mid-June and early February. Check the Army ROTC Scholarship site for specific dates. Students may also apply for two, three, and four-year campus-based scholarships one they begin university and are enrolled in ROTC as a non-contracted cadet.

In college and after graduation, cadets find that the training and experience that they have received are assets – whether pursuing an Army or civilian career. Employers place high regard on the management and leadership skills that ROTC instructors stress. Plus, ROTC looks great on a resume. When cadets complete the ROTC course, upon graduation, they become commissioned officers in the U.S. Army.