Navy Dads
Navy OCS
Officer Candidate School (OCS): Questions & Answers to what your Sailor will be doing in Navy OCS at Naval Station Newport in Rhode Island.
OCS Application Procedure and Questions
Hello all and thank you for the add.
I didn't learn about the Navy Officer Program till late in my college career. It was too late to join ROTC. I ended up receiving a minor in Naval Science but felt the need to pursue it further. Now, a year out of college, I am ready to apply for OCS. However, I have some questions in what is required. If I were to hand a packet of paperwork to my recruiter what would help me stand out? Here are some of my questions:
1. Am I expected to have references?
2. Should I get a letter of recommendation from my Congressman?
3. Is there an Officer Candidate Test?
Thank you in advance for your help. The information provided by Navy Dads is very helpful from what I have read so far.
RJ Campbell
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!
Jan 3, 2017
Tony Belmont
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
Jan 3, 2017
Justin Haynes
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
Jan 5, 2017