ARMY ROTC PARENT INFORMATION
ROTC is a tremendous way for college students to develop leadership skills that will not only prepare them to become Officers in the U.S. Army, but to give them a distinct advantage over fellow college students in the civilian world. This brochure is designed to help you become more informed about the decisions you will help them make.
Why should my son or daughter enroll in Army ROTC?
It is leadership training at the highest level. The sense of pride, discipline and commitment involved with ROTC stays with a person for life. In college and after graduation, cadets find that the training and experience they receive are assets - whether pursuing an Army or a 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.
What does it mean to be an Officer?
Being an Officer in the U.S. Army is one of the most prestigious, difficult and satisfying professions an American citizen can have. First and foremost an Officer is a leader: highly trained, disciplined and effective. An Officer must be able to make smart decisions fast and under stress. Many former Army Officers have gone on to become CEO's of major corporations and have held positions of importance in government, using their Officer training and experience as a competitive edge.
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.
How much does ROTC usually award and what does the money go toward?
Army ROTC scholarships pay for tuition and academic fees, up to a total of $68,000 for four years. Scholarship winners also receive an annual book allowance, as well as a stipend worth up to $4,000 per academic year.
On what basis are scholarship winners chosen?
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.
By enrolling in ROTC, are you joining the Army?
No, Students who enroll in ROTC don't join the Army. They take ROTC classes for which they receive credit. It's considered a college elective. Students pursue their "regular" college degree on campus like other students. And upon graduation from college the ROTC cadets become commissioned Officers in the U.S. Army.
Is ROTC like "boot camp?"
No. ROTC cadets go directly to college where they earn their degree.
How much time does ROTC take up weekly?
ROTC courses take up no more than other college electives. All that is required is a few hours a week.
What is the ROTC course comprised of?
The ROTC program is divided into phases: The Basic Course is comprised of classes that study Army history, organization and structure. The techniques and principles of leadership and management are stressed throughout. The Advanced Course is comprised of classes that teach tactical operations and military instruction, as well as advanced techniques of management, leadership and command.
What can students expect to "get" from ROTC?
ROTC trains students to become Officers in the Army, positions of great responsibility. ROTC prepares cadets for Officer ship both physically and mentally with classroom work and adventure/leadership training. Possible exercises could include leading cadets while rappelling, white-water rafting or rock climbing.
Is there a military obligation during college?
During the Basic Course, ROTC cadets have no military obligation. In the case of four-year scholarships winners, cadets have no military obligation during the first year.
Can only scholarship winners enroll in ROTC?
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.
How often are Army ROTC scholarships awarded?
High School scholarship applications should be submitted by November 15. Applications submitted past this date will be considered; however, late applications may not be as competitive due to the selection time frames.
To sum up, Army ROTC is one of the best ways of your son or daughter to get a head start on life after college, both personally and professionally. It's also an amazing opportunity to join a long and distinguished list of Americans who have served their country with pride and dedication.