The Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) is a program offered at many American colleges and universities. The program runs in conjunction with a college or university's normal course of study, allowing candidates to earn a bachelor's degree while participating in the program. Along with the freedom to earn a degree, candidates are introduced into the studies of naval science, physical training and are taught the principles expected of a naval officer.
Eligibility Requirements
Basic eligibility requirements for the Marine NROTC are based on citizenship, age and acceptance into an accredited college or university. All applicants for the program must be a U.S. citizen enrolled in an approved NROTC college or university. The second basic eligibility requirement is that the applicant must be at least 17 years old by September 1 of the same year the applicant plans to start college and no older than 23 by June 30 of the same year. Also in regards to the age of an applicant, he must be under the age of 27 by June 30 of his graduating year. An applicant must also hold a high school diploma or a GED by August 1 of the year he/her starts college and gains entrance into the Marine NROTC program.
Academic Requirements
Participants in the Marine NROTC program are first required to be enrolled as a full-time student. He must be working toward attaining a bachelor's degree in accordance with the requirement of his major. Participants must enroll in a naval science class each semester as well as certain other classes specified by the Marine Corps. Participants are also required to maintain an acceptable level of academic success. Marine NROTC participants are required to attend four-to-six week annual training camps every summer.
Physical Requirements
Participants in the Marine NROTC program are expected to maintain a level of physical wellness. Candidates are tested before accepted into the program, after which, he must maintain good physical health. Candidates must first pass the Marine Corps' physical readiness test, which evaluates candidates on muscular strength, endurance, aerobic wellness and flexibility. In addition to passing the physical readiness test, candidates must have vision correctable to 20/20 and no major medical conditions. Asthma, heart disease, chronic skin disorders, seizure disorders, keratoconus or alcohol/drug abuse are all reasons for ineligibility. However, medical waivers may be given in certain cases. Speak with Marine NROTC recruiter for more information if you have any questions about your physical eligibility.
Expectation of Service
Every participant of the Marine NROTC program is expected to serve in the U.S. military immediately following graduation. Participants who participated in the NROTC scholarship program are required to serve a minimum of four years on active duty. Participants who did not participate in the NROTC scholarship program are required to serve a minimum of three years on active duty.
Benefits of Service
As a participant in the Marine NROTC, candidates are given the option of applying for the NROTC scholarship. This scholarship pays for most college expenses including tuition, books, university fees and uniforms. Marine NROTC graduates who complete the program are then commissioned as an ensign in the Navy or as a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps.
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