OCS Application Procedure and Questions

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Permalink Reply by Tim Bates on January 3, 2017 at 3:32pm

The recruiter is the place to start. What do you want to do in the Navy? What is your degree? There is a basic intro test for officers. These things I can tell you. The Navy is in dire need of aviation candidates. Your health must be flawless to get aviation. No recommendation is needed since this isn't the Academy. good luck. Talk to the recruiter.

Permalink Reply by RJ Campbell on January 3, 2017 at 3:56pm

You will end up needing somewhere beteeen 4 and 7 references. They are not necessary until the end of the process. Your recruiter knows they take time and will help you with the process.

A letter from a congressman is not needed, only for the academy, but won't hurt as a recommendation.

The ASTB is the Navy officers test. There are many references and study guides out there. Again, your recruiter will help you and will give you enough time to prepare before signing you up for the test.

Best of luck!

Permalink Reply by Tony Belmont on January 3, 2017 at 4:48pm

Dear Justin;

We have a daughter that finished OCS in the past year and is now one of the few women in Fighter Pilot training at Pensacola, and a nephew who is an engineer that also finished OCS in the past 4 months and is now in California.

In answer to your questions we have been through this twice recently. and the answer is yes, you will need three letters of references. I suggest;

A. One your college professors is a good choice

B. Someone retired from the military or with a good reputation in your area either business or civic associations.

C. The congressman will give you the letter but It may be easier to get one from the local councilman or Mayor.  (It sounds better if they knew you for a time) At least one elected official letter is good. You may also think about a good employer reference because they will look at your past work record.

They do spot check and sometimes contact the references. They will want contact information from each person that writes the letter. 

2. Its not necessary. The letter under B will get you through.

3. Yes, there is a test. But with your academic background I wouldn't worry about it. My daughter said, to tell you it's general knowledge at a college level, and you can't really study for it. She also suggested that you think about aviation in the Navy.

As for the recruiter, everything you do with that person should be thought out. When you bring in your documents and letters, make sure there in order and neat. Make sure that every time you meet with the recruiter that you look neat, head to toe. As added information both my daughter and nephew love being in the Navy. And I agree with my daughter if you don't know exactly what you would like to do in the Navy push for aviation. It doesn't mean you will be a pilot, necessary but there is a lot of chance for advancement in a variety of aviation positions.

Also, most important! Make sure your in top shape before you arrive at OCS. Start running and doing your push-ups now! If you have any other questions just ask?

Your making a wise move. Good Luck!

Tony Belmont

Marine Corp Combat Vet

Permalink Reply by Justin Haynes on January 5, 2017 at 9:00am

Hello Tim, RJ, and Tony,

Sorry for the delayed response. 

My degree was in Geography and Urban Planning. I intended to go SWO because I heard that the more specific services were tough to get into. SWO was the entry level position for lack of a better term. However, I don't think there is an American male that wouldn't take the opportunity to be a Naval Aviator, myself included. It is hard to believe we are lacking applicants for pilot programs. Thanks for the information!

Sincerely,

Justin