Parent FAQs
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By enrolling in ROTC, is my child joining the Army?
No. Students who enroll in ROTC don’t join the Army. They take ROTC classes for which they receive college credit. It’s considered a college elective.
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Is ROTC like “boot camp”?
No. ROTC cadets go directly to college where they earn their degrees.
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What can students expect to learn by taking ROTC?
Quite simply, leadership and management skills are needed to become a U.S. Army officer or to enhance a successful civilian career.
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What makes ROTC different from regular college management courses?
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. They learn to think on their feet, make snap decisions, build a solid team, and influence others.
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Is there a military obligation during college?
During the first two years, ROTC cadets have no military obligation (with the exception of scholarship winners).
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What is the ROTC course comprised of?
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.
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What are the age limits for ROTC?
Seventeen is the youngest age allowed to join ROTC. A cadet must be able to graduate and be commissioned by their 30th birthday. Although not guaranteed, waivers can be granted that would allow an individual to graduate and be commissioned by their 32nd birthday.
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Does Army ROTC offer scholarships?
Yes. Each year, hundreds of students attending colleges nationwide receive ROTC scholarships. ROTC awards them to students studying science, engineering, nursing, and business as well as a variety of other majors.
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How much money does ROTC usually award and what does the money go towards?
Scholarships are awarded at different monetary levels. At some schools, an ROTC scholarship is worth up to $80,000, which goes towards tuition and educational fees. Also, scholarship winners receive an allowance of up to $4,000 a year.
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On what basis are scholarship winners chosen?
A.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.
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Can only scholarship winners enroll in ROTC?
No. Anyone can enroll in ROTC. And, regardless of whether your child is a scholarship winner or not, all ROTC books, supplies, and equipment are furnished at no cost to him, her, or you.
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How often are Army ROTC scholarships awarded?
Four-year high school scholarships are awarded once a year. Applications can be submitted year-round but the prime submission date is by November 15th of the student’s senior year. High school seniors can apply n-line at https://www.goarmy.com/rotc.html for a four-year ROTC Scholarship. Two-year and three-year scholarships are also available. The ROTC Enrollment Team handles these applications.
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How do students benefit from Army ROTC?
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.
