FAQ

 
 

GENERAL QUESTIONS

What's the difference between enlisting and becoming an officer? How do I know which choice is right for me?

Enlisted Marines make up the majority of the Marine Corps and include ranks from private to sergeant major. Enlisted Marines undergo recruit training in Parris Island, SC, or San Diego, CA.

Officers are leaders of Marines and include ranks from second lieutenant to four-star general. Officers undergo training in Quantico, VA.

Whether you are interested in service as an enlisted Marine or as an officer, a recruiter will be able to discuss your options based on your education level, experience and goals. Use the Request More Information form at the top of the page to contact an Officer Selection Officer to learn more.

What does "commissioning" mean?

Commissioning is the process of earning an official appointment to the rank of second lieutenant.

There are several ways to seek a commission, including Platoon Leaders Class, Officer Candidate Course, NROTC, the Naval Academy and enlisted-to-officer programs. Please see Commissioning Programs for more information.

What kinds of specialties are available for Marine Corps Officers?

Marine Corps Officers are assigned to many Military Occupational Specialties (MOSs) which fall under three main categories:

Ground: the majority of Marines operate in ground specialties, in roles ranging from infantry to combat service support.

Air: Marine Pilots and Naval Flight Officers train on jets, helicopters, tilt-rotor aircraft and turboprop aircraft.

Law: training for Judge Advocates supplements a law degree, with instruction for practicing law in the military.

How does becoming a Marine Corps Officer compare with other career options?

Officers achieve a balanced career in the Marine Corps through varied experience and assignments, continued education and advancement.

As you progress in the Marine Corps, you will take on increased responsibility with each new rank and assignment. You will also have opportunities for personal and professional growth.

During active service, officers and their families have access to a wide range of personal and professional resources such as healthcare, travel, advanced education and financial benefits. Above all, they are part of the Marine Corps family, and this camaraderie, as well as their leadership training and experience leading Marines, lasts a lifetime.

What is life like as a Marine Corps Officer?

Officer candidates earn their commissions after graduating from college and completing a program such as Platoon Leaders Class or Officer Candidate Course. They then attend The Basic School, followed by specialized training which prepares them for their Military Occupational Specialty.

Officers serve in the operating forces, leading Marines in their primary MOS. After their first tour, they serve in non-MOS-related positions such as recruiting duty. Officers also attend career-level schools like Expeditionary Warfare School and may seek advanced degrees. Promotions are based on time in rank, successful performance in assignments and appropriate education.

During active service, officers and their families have access to a wide range of personal and professional resources such as healthcare, travel, advanced education and financial benefits. Above all, they are part of the Marine Corps family, and this camaraderie, as well as their leadership training and experience leading Marines, lasts a lifetime.

I am currently an enlisted Marine. How can I become a Marine Corps Officer?

Enlisted Marines who show exceptional leadership may talk with their commanding officer about the opportunity to become a Marine Corps Officer.

Depending on your education level, experience and goals, there are several programs that allow enlisted Marines to become officers. Please see the Enlisted to Officer page for more information.

How do I learn more about scholarship opportunities offered by the Marine Corps?

The Marine Corps offers many scholarship opportunities. Use the Request More Information form at the top of the page to speak with a recruiter or Officer Selection Officer to learn more about these opportunities.

What colleges have NROTC programs?

The NROTC program is offered at more than 160 colleges and universities throughout the U.S. Use the Request More Information form at the top of the page to contact an Officer Selection Officer to learn more.

OFFICER REQUIREMENTS

Do I have to graduate from college before I can become a Marine Corps officer?

While all officers must have a degree from an accredited four-year university before receiving their commission, college students can begin their training toward earning a commission during college. See Commissioning Programs for more information.

Enlisted Marines without a college degree may apply to earn a degree and seek a commission through one of the enlisted-to-officer programs.

I have an associate's degree. Can I still become a Marine Corps Officer?

While all officers must have a degree from an accredited four-year university before receiving their commission, you may discuss options available to you with an Officer Selection Officer.

I have health issues — can I still seek a commission?

To enlist in the armed forces, every applicant is administered a physical exam similar to a high school sports physical. Any health concerns and conditions can be discussed with your local Officer Selection Officer.

I am older than 28 years old. Can I still become a Marine Corps Officer?

Waivers may be available on a case-by-case basis for those over the eligible officer age of 28. Contact your local recruiter or Officer Selection Officer to discuss your personal qualifications.

How old do I have to be in order to seek a commission as a Marine Corps Officer?

You must be at least 18 years of age; however, waivers may be available on a case-by-case basis. Contact your local recruiter or Officer Selection Officer to discuss your personal qualifications.

VISITING AN OFFICER SELECTION OFFICER

How do I find an Officer Selection Officer near me?

Click on Request More Information at the top of the page and complete the form. The contact information for a selection station near you will be provided after you submit the form.

How should I prepare for a visit with an Officer Selection Officer?

  1. Make an appointment. While walk-ins are taken, an appointment ensures that you have the Officer Selection Officer's undivided attention.
  2. Before you go, write down any questions you have about becoming a Marine Officer. Don't be afraid to ask them. Answering your questions is part of the Officer Selection Officer's job.
  3. Bring pen and paper to take notes during your talk.
  4. Don't forget to gather informational brochures and booklets when you visit.

Will I be asked to sign anything on my first visit with an Officer Selection Officer?

You are under no obligation to sign anything when speaking with an Officer Selection Officer or recruiter for the first time.

Why is an Officer Selection Officer the best resource for information about seeking a commission in the Marine Corps?

Only a Marine Corps Officer knows what it's really like to lead Marines. The Officer Selection Officer has been through the journey you are considering, from the decision process through training and beyond. It is the Officer Selection Officer's job to help you decide if the Marine Corps is a good fit for you.

OFFICER TRAINING

How can I prepare myself for training as a Marine Corps Officer?

Before beginning Officer Candidates School, your Officer Selection Officer will guide your physical training regimen and prepare you for the challenge of becoming a Marine Corps Officer.

BENEFITS

What benefits "such as health insurance, vacation time and education reimbursement" do Marine Corps Officers receive?

The Marine Corps provides a full benefits package, including salary, medical, housing, vacation and other standard benefits in addition to the leadership skills and honor of being a leader of United States Marines. A recruiter or Officer Selection Officer can explain the details of each benefit provided.

PARENT QUESTIONS

Where do I find information about attending the graduation parade and commissioning ceremony for officer candidates?

Information regarding graduation day is available on the Officer Candidates School website: http://www.trngcmd.usmc.mil/OCS/canfaminfo/gradcomminfo/default.aspx

SPECIAL REQUESTS

I would like to show my support for the men and women of the Marine Corps by organizing care packages or volunteering my time and services. Where can I find more information?

http://www.marines.mil/community/Pages/default.aspx

Where can I request a Marine Corps appearance at my local event?

http://www.marines.mil/community/Pages/MilitaryAppreciation.aspx

MY LIBRARY

What is My Library?

My Library is an interactive tool that lets you create a personalized collection of your favorite pages on MarineOfficer.com. You can also update your collection and share it with friends at any time.

What is my user I.D.?

Your user I.D. is the email address you provided when you signed up. If you don't have a user I.D., you can create one on the My Library page.

What happens if I forget My Library password?

You can reset your password by clicking the "Forgot your password?" link on the My Library page.

How do I update My Library information?

Log in to My Library and click the "Edit Profile" link.

CAREER TOOL

What is the Career Tool?

The Career Tool provides a collection of pages based on your education level and field of interest that can help you explore life as a Marine Officer.

OSO PAGES

My Officer Selection Officer (OSO) gave me a link to his page, but I can't find that link. What do I do?

Contact your OSO.

CAREER TOOL

What is the Career Tool?

The Career Tool provides a collection of pages based on your education level and field of interest that can help you explore life as a Marine Officer.

OSO PAGES

My Officer Selection Officer (OSO) gave me a link to his page, but I can't find that link. What do I do?

Contact your OSO.