Air Force ROTC

The Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) is a government program offering financial assistance to high school students, college students, and Air Force personnel already on active duty. The Air Force ROTC program offers scholarships to college students in their first, second, or third year of college. Three types of scholarships are offered to college students: Type I covers all tuition and fees for 2, 3, or 4 year period, Type II covers tuition and fees up to $15,000 per year, and Target Institution Scholarships (also known as Type 7 scholarships) are selected based on applicants' listed schools of choice-the scholarship ranges up to $9,000 per year. Target Institution Scholarships are designed specifically for less costly, generally in-state-tuition-level institutions. Type II represents the majority of scholarships awarded. All scholarships provide money for books, fees, and a $200 per month living allowance. An additional $2,000 per year scholarship is available to cadets enrolled in the professional officer course of study.

Students enrolled in a 3- or 4-year program complete a 2-part program, the General Military Course followed by the Professional Officer Course. Students spend approximately two years in each part. General Military Training cadets learn military background, concepts and history through Aerospace Studies coursework. During the Lead Lab course, they also practice non-academic, fundamental skills: followership, uniform wear, military customs and courtesies, drill and marching, etc. Cadets are also eligible for summer programs such as Air Force Academy Freefall or glider SOAR programs.

In addition to academic training during the spring and fall semesters and optional summer programs, Air Force ROTC students must complete a 4- or 5-week summer field-training program. The program is intended to develop teamwork and leadership skills and includes small arms training, parade and retreat ceremonies, and survival training. Upon completion of the summer field training, cadets enter the Professional Officer Course (POC).

POC cadets sign enlistment paperwork committing them to the completion of their ROTC training even if they have received no financial assistance from the USAF. In addition to serving as cadet officers (supervising GMT cadets), POC cadets continue their Aerospace studies coursework. They are eligible for several summer Professional Development Programs, including: Army Airborne Training, Combat Survival Training, military internships in law, medicine, and more. Upon completion of the ROTC program, POC cadets are commissioned as second lieutenants in the United States Air Force.

Students finishing high school interested in the USAF ROTC program should obtain information from their local ROTC recruiter, and students already attending an accredited college or university should contact their campus or area recruiter for additional information specific to their individual goals. Many issues such as required length or service and rank upon entering the USAF will vary greatly depending on a variety of factors. Most students will have a standard four-year enlistment commitment, but those wishing to enter fields requiring more complex training will incur a longer enlistment commitment; for example, pilots must serve for 10 years following their pilot certification.

Focus on Your Future With Air Force ROTC.