Frequently Asked Questions

Is enrolling in Army ROTC the same as joining the Army? Once a student starts taking ROTC courses, is he/she obligated to join the Army?

Enrolling in Army ROTC is not, strictly speaking, joining the Army. You will not be sent to boot camp. However, the primary purpose of the Army ROTC program is to produce its Officers, so you must agree to serve as Officers in the Army after graduation in order to go through the entire program, or if you have received an ROTC scholarship. Enrolling in the ROTC Basic Course (the first two years of college) does NOT obligate you to serve unless you have also received a scholarship.

What kinds of scholarships are available in Army ROTC? Are any of the scholarships retroactive?

Army ROTC offers two-, three-, and four-year scholarships, which pay full tuition and fees, include a separate allowance for books, and a monthly stipend of up to $5,000 a year. Army ROTC scholarships are not retroactive.

What good is Army ROTC for a career outside of the Army?

Army ROTC is one of the only college programs that teaches leadership. This training is invaluable for any career that involves leading, managing and motivating people or fostering teamwork. Young Army Officers are typically responsible for hundreds of Soldiers and millions of dollars in equipment; this kind of management experience can be very attractive for post-Army employers.

Why should I choose Army ROTC over a different branch's ROTC?

The Army offers a wider range of career opportunities, in more places around the world, than any other U.S. military branch.

What are Army ROTC courses like? How will the class work help me? Will ROTC classes interfere with his/her other studies?

Army ROTC classes normally involve one elective class and one lab per semester. Although the classes involve hands-on fieldwork as well as classroom work, they are standard college classes that fit into a normal academic schedule. These courses can help students with personal and academic decision making while giving them the tools to exercise leadership in college life, even before graduating and becoming Officers.

How will being an Army ROTC Cadet affect my daily life? Do Cadets experience normal college life and activities?

Army ROTC Cadets have similar lifestyles and academic schedules to any other college students and enjoy the full opportunities associated with residential life on campus. They participate on varsity teams and club sports. They take part in community service projects. However, there are two Army ROTC courses that take place in the summer at Fort Knox, Kentucky.

• Cadet Basic Course — This four-week training session is designed for all cadets going into their sophomore year of college.  The Cadet Basic Course inculcates the skills and values necessary to develop leaders of character fully committed to military service.  At this time it is not mandatory.
• Cadet Advanced Course — All Cadets transitioning into their junior year of college must attend this four-week summer course. The Advanced Course provides opportunities for Cadets to lead their peers during tactical scenarios while improving their ability to solve complex tactical and ethical problems and lead others under stress in a field environment.

Can I go into the Army Reserve or National Guard after graduation instead of the regular Army?

Yes. Selected Cadets may choose to serve part time in the U.S. Army Reserve or Army National Guard while pursuing a civilian career. For more details, see the Active Duty & Army Reserve Service Options or Army National Guard websites.