Academics & Admissions
If I join Air Force ROTC, does that mean I'm joining the military?
No. If you get a 4-year scholarship from high school, then the first year of college is paid for and you can quit at the end of your freshman year with no obligation. If you get a 3-year scholarship from high school or college then you are not committed to the Air Force until you accept your scholarship (usually in the fall of your sophomore year). If you didn't get any scholarship, then you are not committed to joining the Air Force until you start your junior year of college.
What is the difference between Junior ROTC in high school and ROTC in college?
The mission of the high school Junior ROTC program is to build better citizens for America. The mission of the college ROTC program is to produce leaders for the Air Force. If you are interested in starting an Air Force Junior ROTC program at your high school, visit http://www.afoats.af.mil/AFJROTC/ApplyforUnit.asp.
Do I have to be in Junior ROTC in high school to be eligible for ROTC in college?
No. In fact, the majority of students enrolled in college ROTC have never been involved in the Junior ROTC program.
Do I have to join Air Force ROTC as a freshman?
No. Any student (graduate or undergraduate) with more than two years remaining should be eligible for our program. So, if you're a second-semester freshman, a sophomore, or have at least two years remaining in your graduate studies, you can join.
Can I enroll if I didn't take Air Force ROTC as a freshman?
Yes. You can enroll in Aerospace Studies 101 and Aerospace Studies 201 (your university may have a different name) and be what we call dual enrolled. You can also elect not to take freshman ROTC, however, you must attend an extended field training unit during the summer of your second year if you take this option.
Can I attend Air Force ROTC without a scholarship?
Yes, you can. Many of our students do not start with a scholarship, but earn one eventually. Still, at any given time, about 80% of our students receive financial assistance.
Is preference shown toward scholarship cadets?
Definitely not! The fact that a cadet may have an Air Force ROTC scholarship has no bearing on an Air Force career. Nor does it make any difference while in the Air Force ROTC program.
Are there any restrictions as to what students select as their academic major?
None at all. In fact, we encourage you to take a curriculum you are interested in and in which you have the capability to do well. Our main academic concern is that you maintain a Grade Point Average (GPA) above 2.5 and attain your degree in the time period planned.
Can I pursue graduate education after I'm commissioned
commissionedAppointed by the President of the United States. ?
The Air Force is education-oriented and financially supports graduate studies. Most bases have graduate college programs, and you may apply for the tuition assistance program that pays 100 percent of the tuition cost.
How often can I take the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT)?
The test is given several times during the fall and spring and can be taken a maximum of two times with at least 6 months between tests.
I'm prior service – do I have to attend the General Military Course (GMC)?
Maybe. The Professor of Aerospace Studies may waive some or all of the GMCGMCGeneral Military Course - an ROTC course offered to freshmen and sophomores designed to improve communication skills and provide instruction about the Profession of Arms. if you are prior enlisted. This is determined by the amount and kind of experience you had when you departed prior service.
If I take Air Force ROTC classes, am I committed to military or government service once I join?
There is no service commitment for students who take our classes with no intention of becoming an Air Force officer. For these students, it’s just another class. If you’re interested in becoming an officer, there is NO service commitment during the first two years of the program unless you have an Air Force ROTC scholarship. If you decide to stay and join the Professional Officer CourseProfessional Officer CoursePOC - ROTC course for juniors and seniors. (the last two years), you’ll sign an allocation contract with the Air Force and incur a service obligation. For Air Force ROTC scholarship students, you’re obligated once you’ve activated the scholarship and have entered your sophomore year.
What are the other Air Force commissioning opportunities?
Other commissioning opportunities exist through the United States Air Force Academy. Commissioning opportunities for college graduates also exist through Officer Training School, an intense 12-week program at Maxwell Air Force Base. Commissioned Officer Training is a 4-week program designed for professionals who have received a direct commissioned appointment as a lawyer, chaplain or in the medical service. Reserve Commissioned Officer Training is a 13-day intensive program designed for Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard medical service officers.
Are there special programs for active-duty airmen?
Yes. There are several programs available. The first step in any Airman-to-officer program is a stop at your base Education Office. Each of these programs has deadlines and age limitations, so check early. For more program details, please visit our Air Force ROTC Scholarships section ».
Do I receive any ROTC credit for Junior ROTC?
Yes you do. Three years of Junior ROTC (JROTC) are considered equal to three semesters of the General Military Course (GMC), and two years are equal to one year of the GMC. No credit is given for less than two years of JROTC training.
Is the Four-Year Program more advantageous for students?
Yes, for the following reasons: It gives you more time to participate in Air Force ROTC without obligation, to gain experience and to decide whether you want to apply for the advanced program, the POCPOCProfessional Officer Course - ROTC course for juniors and seniors. .
Do I receive any ROTC credit for Civil Air Patrol (CAP)?
The unit commandercommanderThe officer in charge of running an Air Force unit's day-to-day operations. can give credit for part of the GMC to cadets who receive the Spaatz, Earhart, and Mitchell Awards during any academic term of the GMC.
If I join AFROTCAFROTCAir Force Reserve Officer Training Corps , I've joined the Air Force.
If you get a 4-year scholarship right out of high school, your first year of college is paid for. You can quit at the end of your freshman year with no obligation. If you get a 3-year scholarship in high school or while in college, you're not committed to the Air Force until you accept your scholarship [usually in the fcall of your sophomore year]. If you didn't get a scholarship, you aren't committed to joining the Air Force until you become a contracted cadet.
Careers
What is the commitment to the Air Force upon graduation?
Most officers have a four-year commitment. For pilots, it's ten years after pilot training, and six years for combat systems officers after training. Air Battle Managers have a six-year commitment. See the Service Commitment section.
When do I know what job I will be doing for the Air Force as an officer?
CadetsCadetsMembers of the student population of AFROTC will have a chance to select a career choice. The factors to be used will include your Air Force Officer Qualifying TestAir Force Officer Qualifying TestA standardized test similar to the SAT and ACT that measures aptitudes, and is used to select applicants for officer commissioning programs or specific training programs. A required test for all cadets and students on scholarship or in the POC. (AFOQTAFOQTAir Force Officer Qualifying Test ) scores, your camp performance rating, your Grade Point Average (GPA), your academic major, your Physical Fitness TestPhysical Fitness TestPFT - an exam composed of three events in the following order: push-ups, crunches, and a 1.5-mile run. The test is used to ensure cadets maintain an acceptable level of fitness. (PFTPFTPhysical Fitness Test ) score, and the DetachmentDetachmentThe Air Force ROTC unit at a host university. Commander's rating. You will know your specific Air Force job category approximately six months before you're commissioned.
Do I have to become a pilot or combat systems officer?
No. The vast majority of Air Force jobs do not involve flying at all. In the civilian world there are thousands of jobs and careers – doctors, lawyers, law enforcement, engineers, financial careers, food-service management – the list is endless. For almost every civilian out in the work force, there is an Air Force officer counterpart performing a similar job. For more information about the many careers available, check out our Careers section ».
When do cadets actually receive their commissioncommissionBestowed upon an AFROTC graduate by the President of the United States recognizing them as an officer in the U.S. Air Force. as an Air Force officer?
Cadets normally get commissioned in a special ceremony the same day they graduate. You can expect to enter active duty about 30 days after graduation.
Must a student go on active duty in the Air Force immediately following graduation and commissioning?
Not necessarily. You may request an educational delay if you desire to attend graduate school at your own expense before going on active duty. If approved, the Air Force will postpone your active-duty tour. Delays are routinely provided if you select to attend dental or medical school. Scholarships also exist for students accepted to medical school.
Can I continue my education beyond the baccalaureate level?
Yes. The Air Force offers several opportunities to do so. In many cases you can request an educational delay. This delay between the time of commissioning and reporting for active duty will be of sufficient length to allow you to fulfill the requirements for a professional or master's degree. You will assume all financial obligations. There are also many opportunities to pursue advanced degrees while serving on Active Duty.
I don't have 20/20 vision. Can I still fly?
It depends. Check out the Flying Requirements » for more information.
Do I have to major in Aeronautical Science to become a pilot or combat systems officer?
No. Your academic major plays a minor role in pilot and combat systems officer selection. You can major in any degree program and compete to receive a pilot or combat systems officer slot in Air Force ROTC. You can even be on an Air Force ROTC scholarship in an engineering or science major and compete on an equal basis for a flying position.
What are the age limits for a cadet to compete for a pilot or combat systems officer position?
To compete for the pilot or combat systems officer categories, you must be able to complete your bachelor's degree and be commissioned through Air Force ROTC before you are 29 years old.
How do Air Force ROTC graduates compare with Air Force Academy and Officer Training School graduates?
The Academy, ROTC and Officer Training School all produce qualified Air Force officers. The Air Force achieves better diversity and talent by getting officers from more than one commissioning source. Once on active duty, the most important factor in promotion is job performance.
Joining AFROTC means I'm in the Air Force until I retire.
After graduating from an AFTROTC program, you'll likely only have a four-year commitment to the Air Force. However, if you choose to become a pilot, it's ten years after pilot training, and it's six years for combat systems officers after training. Air Battle Managers also have a six-year commitment.
Everyone who joins AFROTC becomes a pilot.
Actually, the vast majority of Air Force jobs don't involve flying at all. Just like in the civilian world, there are hundreds of Air Force jobs and careers – doctors, lawyers, law enforcement, engineers, financial careers, food-service management – the list is endless.
College Life
Do I have to cut my hair?
Hair must be kept in accordance with Air Force guidelines when in uniform.
Do I have to wear a uniform to class every day?
The only time freshman and sophomores are required to wear their uniform is during Leadership Lab, once a week. Juniors and seniors are only required to wear a uniform to Leadership Lab and during one class session during the week. Occasionally, during special events, you may be required to wear your uniform. Otherwise, wear whatever you want.
How much time do I have to spend with Air Force ROTC each week?
The only required time is during your Air Force ROTC classes, Leadership Lab, and physical fitness training. (This equates to approximately four hours per week for freshmen and sophomores; six hours per week for juniors and seniors.)
How are new cadets treated?
It is the responsibility of the cadet's flight commander to help new cadets fit into the program. Many detachments also have tutoring programs and other forms of assistance. Hazing is not permitted! You'll find the cadet staff and detachment staff are concerned about your well-being and progress.
How much marching and drilling will I have to do?
Not as much as you think. Marching/drill is sometimes practiced during your squadron time at Leadership LaboratoryLeadership LaboratoryLLAB - ROTC course for all cadets to learn management and leadership skills. . There are no mandatory drill sessions outside of LLABLLABLeadership Laboratory - ROTC course for all cadets to learn management and leadership skills. .
When will I receive my Air Force ROTC uniform?
Within the first couple of class periods, we will issue you a complete uniform and tell you how to arrange for having alterations completed (at no cost to you). However, you are responsible for keeping the uniform clean and presentable.
Am I expected to participate in any extracurricular activities?
Your first and foremost concern is attending classes and maintaining good grades. After this, you will certainly want to examine some of the various activities sponsored by both your university and Air Force ROTC. There's something in our program of interest to everyone.
Where can I attend Air Force ROTC?
Air Force ROTC is offered at over 1,100 institutions throughout the continental United States, Hawaii and Puerto Rico.
If I apply for the scholarship, am I obligated to the Air Force in any way?
No. Applying for an Air Force ROTC scholarship doesn't obligate you in any way. Four-year scholarship recipients do not incur any obligation until the start of their sophomore year in college.
Can I withdraw my application?
Yes. You may withdraw your application at any time by emailing csp@maxwell.af.mil, sending a fax to 334-953-5624, or writing to the High School Scholarship ProgramHigh School Scholarship ProgramProvides 3- and 4-year scholarships in three different types to high school seniors. at HQ AFROTC/RRUC, 551 East Maxwell Blvd, Maxwell AFB AL 36112-5917.
Can I apply for other officer training programs and military scholarships?
Yes. You may apply for any other officer training program and even receive scholarship offers from more than one service. However, once you enroll in another program, you'll be removed from further Air Force ROTC scholarship competition. Notify the College Scholarships Selections Section immediately if you accept and enroll in another program.
If I choose to leave one of the other officer training programs, can I still apply for an in-college Air Force ROTC scholarship?
Yes. You may apply for one of the Air Force ROTC scholarships of less than four years if a waiver is granted.
How do I check on the status of my scholarship application?
There are several other ways to check on the status of your application package: • Contact your Regional Director of Admissions. • Call 1-866-423-7682 and speak with a scholarship technician. • Go online to check the status of your application.
When and how will I be notified if I've been offered a scholarship?
If offered an Air Force ROTC scholarship, you'll be notified in writing after the scholarship selection boards meet.
If I'm offered a scholarship, how will it be presented?
Normally, an Air Force officer will come to your school and present the scholarship during your school's annual awards day at the end of the year. Although you can choose not to have the scholarship presented, you deserve to be recognized for your accomplishments.
What kind of scholarships does Air Force ROTC offer?
We offer three types and two lengths in our High School Scholarship Program. Our scholarships are offered in either 4-year or 3-year lengths. Our 4-year scholarships are activated in the fall of the freshman year while our 3-year scholarships are activated in the fall of the sophomore year. We offer HSSP, ICS, HBCUHBCUHistorically Black College or University , HSI, and Express Scholarships. For more information please see the link for "scholarships".
What majors are eligible for this program?
Air Force ROTC offers scholarships in academic majors needed to meet the needs of the Air Force. This includes both technical majors and non-technical majors. In each year's scholarship cycle, we offer roughly 2,000-plus scholarships across the nation. We strongly urge you to carefully consider the choices you list for an academic major on this application. You may list up to three majors, but you should only list those you will be willing to pursue. You should also ensure the major you want to pursue is offered by the school you want to attend.
How do we award scholarships based on majors?
We plan to award the majority of scholarships to students pursuing technical scholarships: A full list of our approved technical and foreign language majors is found on our website under "scholarships" and "schools and majors".
Am I eligible?
To be eligible for a scholarship interview for an Air Force ROTC Scholarship, you must:
• Become a United States citizen prior to the date you activate the scholarship.
• Graduate from a high school or hold an equivalent certificate.
• Be at least 17 years old on the date you activate the scholarship.
• Be less than 31 years old as of December 31 of the year you will commission.
• Be less than 27 years old as of June 30, 2009 (i.e., have a birth date of July 1, 1981, or later). If you have prior active-duty military service, write or call the High School Scholarship Program about extending the age limit.
• Not have enrolled full-time in a college or university prior to the Fall 2008 academic term (except for joint high school/college programs).
• You must mail in your OFFICIAL High School Transcript with a Raised Seal or Signature from the Guidance Counselor.
• You must mail in your completed Personal Statement Resume and Extracurricular Activity (Bubble) Sheet postmarked no later than 12 Jan 2009.
• If you are a single parent, contact the nearest Air Force ROTC admissions representative to obtain a single parent care plan package.
• You must complete the Physical Fitness AssessmentPhysical Fitness AssessmentPFA - an exam consisting of three events—crunches, push-ups, and a 1.5-mile run-- used to determine physical fitness level as part of the application process for the college scholarship program. (PFAPFAPhysical Fitness Assessment ) and mail or fax the PFA Letter of Certification to our headquarters prior to January 12, 2009.
• You must take and receive the results of either the ACT or the SAT1. No later than January 12, 2009, you must have your ACT or SAT1 (either one or both) scores sent to Air Force ROTC. The Air Force ROTC test code is 0548 and our address is HQ AFROTC/RRUC, 551 East Maxwell Boulevard, Maxwell AFB, AL 36112-5917. Acceptable forms of the scores are those results received from the testing agency or off the agency websites, which can be faxed to us at 334-953-5624 or 334-953-7769. Scores posted on your Official Transcript are also acceptable. You can see your high school counselor or write directly to the testing agency for test dates and/or to order a score report. Their website addresses are: SAT- www.collegeboard.com and ACT- www.act.org.
What kind of college entrance scores do I need?
We measure academic performance with an Academic Composite. This measure is based on a combination of your SAT or ACT scores, class rank, GPA, and the number of advanced courses you have completed through grade 11. To be eligible for a scholarship you should achieve an SAT composite of 1100 (Math and Verbal only) or ACT composite of 24, attain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, and have a class ranking in the top 40%. Scholarship recipients usually have completed some advanced placement courses. If you don’t meet these requirements you can still apply if you have other outstanding leadership credentials.
What are the weight and fitness standards?
To apply for the scholarship, you must complete the Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) and mail the PFA Letter of Certification to us. If you are offered a scholarship, you must meet the Air Force Weight Standards » prior to activating the scholarship. If you are offered a scholarship, you must also meet the Air Force Physical Fitness Test (PFT) Standards » prior to activating the scholarship. You must perform this test within a few days of starting college your freshman year.
What are the vision standards?
The refractive error in each eye cannot exceed +/- 8.00 diopters. Also, both eyes must be free of any disfiguring or incapacitating abnormality and acute or chronic disease. A history of corneal surgical procedures such as radial keratotomy (RK), even if refractive error improves, disqualifies you for Air Force ROTC. EXCEPTION: A history of photo refractive keratectomy (PRK) does not automatically disqualify you from entry; however, certain criteria must be met before being medically certified. Adequate color vision is a prerequisite to entry into many Air Force specialties.
Will I need to take a medical exam?
No scholarship will be activated until the individual is medically qualified for a commission. The process may involve several months of processing and correspondence. The Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DODMERBDODMERBDepartment of Defense Medical Examination Records Board ) is our medical certification agency. DODMERB determines whether or not the selected individual is medically qualified for a commission. If you are found to be medically disqualified, but believe there are extenuating circumstances that justify consideration of a waiver of our medical standards, you should follow the DODMERB instructions regarding rebuttals and waiver processing.
Does an Air Force ROTC scholarship pay for room and board?
No. Air Force ROTC scholarships do not pay for room and board. However, many colleges and universities offer subsidies to Air Force ROTC students on scholarship that can cover room and board.
Is it possible for me to change my academic major if on scholarship?
Yes, but this is a complex process and should be attempted only after you have given it much thought. Depending on your current major and your proposed major, you may lose your scholarship benefits. Call the detachment you will be attending for details and procedures.
Fact or Fiction
I'll have to major in something really technical
AFROTC encourages you to take a curriculum you are interested in and can excel in. While the majority of AFROTC scholarships are awarded to those entering technical majors, 25% are available to any academic major.
I'll have to shave my head if I join AFROTC
When you're wearing your AFROTC uniform, your hair must be kept in accordance with Air Force guidelines. For men that does mean a short cut, but not shaved. Women's hair must be cut or pinned up above their collar when in uniform.
AFROTC students wear uniforms to class every day.
The only time freshman and sophomores are required to wear their uniform is during Leadership Lab, once a week. Juniors and seniors are only required to wear a uniform to Leadership Lab and during one class session during the week. Occasionally, during special events, you may be required to wear your uniform. Otherwise, wear whatever you want.
AFROTC will take up all of my free time!
The only required time is during your AFROTC classes, Leadership Lab, and physical fitness training. This adds up to around four to five hours per week for juniors and seniors. Beyond that, your free time is your own.
In AFROTC, you march everywhere and get up extra early for drills.
There's not nearly as much marching in AFROTC as you think. Marching (drill) is sometimes practiced during your Leadership Laboratory [LLAB], but there are no mandatory drill sessions outside of LLAB. Whether you walk or run to class depends on how many times you hit the snooze button.
I'll have to join a whole bunch of extracurricular activities.
Your #1 priority is going to class and maintaining your GPA. If you've got that under control, go ahead and look into some of the activities offered around campus and through AFROTC. There's no pressure whatsoever, but we're sure you'll find something that interests you.
I'll have to go to college far from home if I want to be in AFROTC.
AFROTC is offered at over 1,100 colleges and universities throughout the United States, Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. So, chances are, there's one near your home. How far away you live is your choice.
Joining AFROTC means I'll be living on an Air Force Base during college.
Being in AFROTC is not the same as being in the Air Force, so students do not live on base. Live with your parents, in a dorm, or get an apartment – it's up to you.
AFROTC students have no social life!
AFROTC students have all the freedoms of non-AFROTC students. Their free time is their own and they can spend it as they see fit. Students that receive an FROTC scholarship will have to maintain an acceptable GPA, but they can go to games and parties, take road trips and hang out just like anyone else.
My financial need isn't great enough for an AFROTC scholarship.
AFROTC scholarships are based upon academic merit, not need. Your eligibility is based on your officer potential and the “whole person” concept. We will review your leadership and work experience, extracurricular activities, plus the results from your personal interview and questionnaire. These factors, along with your academic scores and the needs of the Air Force, will determine your merit for a 4- or 3-year scholarship and the type of scholarship offered.
I'll have a drill sergeant breathing down my neck all the time!
The only time you're required to spend participating in AFROTC activities is during your Leadership Lab. This will sometimes involve physical fitness drills – but no drill sergeants following your around!
My social circle won't extend beyond AFROTC
AFROTC students are members of athletic teams, fraternities, sororities and any number of social groups. You'll make a lot of great friends in AFROTC, but you're free to hang out with whomever you like.
