Details
- Candidates attend a 10-week course at Officer Candidates School (OCS) in Quantico, VA
- Candidates are paid while attending OCS
- Lodging, textbooks, meals and travel costs are paid for by the Marine Corps
- After college graduation and completion of Officer Candidate Course (OCC) at OCS, candidates receive their commission and begin active duty at The Basic School
- Reserve Officer opportunities are available through OCC Reserve program, with the same requirements but with service beginning at a reserve location after training
Programs
OCC allows assignment into one of three specialty fields:
- Ground
Selection to train for specialties that will command combat forces and combat support units
- Air
Pre-designation to train as a Marine Corps Pilot or Naval Flight Officer
- Law
Selection to train as a Marine Corps Judge Advocate (attorney)
Application & Qualifications
All three phases of the process will determine your readiness to become an officer candidate.

To be considered as an officer candidate, you must meet the following qualifications:
- College senior or graduate from a four-year college or university
- U.S. citizen
- 18 to 28 years old, though exceptions may be considered
OCC Aviation Additional Requirements
To qualify, you must be no more than 28 years old when commissioned. You must pass the Navy/Marine Corps Aviation Selection Test Battery (ASTB), be medically qualified for flight training and meet minimum vision requirements.
OCC Law Additional Requirements
To qualify, you must have completed your bachelor’s degree. You will complete OCS during law school and must pass the bar exam before reporting to TBS. You must achieve an LSAT score of 150 or better, and be younger than 30 years old when transitioning to active duty.
Learn more about Officer Candidate Course and the Marine Corps Officer Program
Take The First Step