QUESTIONS FREQUENTLY ASKED BY APPLICANTS
1. What will be my rank?
Your rank will be Officer Candidate. You will be promoted to the paygrade of E-6, if you are below that paygrade, and paid as an E-6. If you are above the paygrade of E-6, you will remain at your present paygrade. While you are at the school, you will wear the appropriate Officer Candidate uniform, without rank, and be referred to as "Officer Candidate (your name)."
2. Do I have to make drills with my own unit?
You do not. Upon acceptance, you will be attached to the OCS Battalion. You will attend drills at the school in lieu of drill with your unit. The Academy is responsible for your pay and training while attending OCS.
3. Will I have to go on active duty when I finish?
No, you will serve in the Army National Guard or the USAR. No period of active duty is required, except for the Officer Basic Course.
4. What type of commission will I receive?
You will be commissioned an officer in the Reserve of the Army (Federal Commission). You will be appointed as an officer in the Army National Guard or Army Reserve (USAR students).
5. What happens to me if I drop out of the course?
You will return to your original status with your unit. If you are promoted to E-6 to attend the course you will be reduced to the paygrade previously held; otherwise, no change in your status.
6. What happens if I have to miss a drill?
You must attend all weekend drills. If there is a death in your immediate family, or if you are sick and under doctor's care, you may be excused; otherwise, you must attend. Failure to attend all IDT's can lead to dismissal from the OCS program.
7. Will I be permitted to go on pass while in OCS?
Not during Phase I. You will be restricted for the two weeks and at each assembly. The course is highly accelerated and you must give it your best every minute.
8. Will I have to cut my hair?
Your hair will have to be cut to not more than two inches on top and 1/4 inch around the sides. No sideburns, bangs or facial hair will be allowed. It is not required that you shave your head.
9. What will it cost me to attend?
You will be promoted and paid as E-6 while attached to the Battalion. Receiving E-6 pay and with proper management, your cost should be kept to a minimum.
10. What branch would I be commissioned in?
That depends on the type of unit to which you are assigned upon being commissioned.
11. Will I be commissioned at graduation?
Yes, providing a position vacancy exists and you meet all requirements for Commissioning, including the civilian education requirements.
12. Will I be issued additional uniforms?
Yes. Additional uniforms are required for OCS. Each Phase has a different clothing authorization.
13. What events are required on the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT)?
The events are push-ups, sit-ups, and a two-mile run.
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