For Educators: Military Resources
Military Journey Timelines
ROTC Timeline
The biggest step in your military journey is the day you decide to join. And, while no two paths to service are alike, they can share key themes, like fast-tracking accomplishments, becoming part of a cohesive team, and gaining experiences that set you apart.
Freshman Through Senior Year
Research and Preparation
Keep Your Grades Up
While GPA requirements vary by ROTC branch, it’s important to focus on academics throughout high school to strengthen your future application.
Focus On Fitness
If you’re serious about ROTC, we recommend prioritizing fitness and well-being in high school to help prepare for future physical training.
Take the Tests
Spring of junior year is the time to take the SAT or ACT. Curious about which is right for you? Both offer a full-length practice version.
Did You Know?
ROTC is a great way to pay for college. The program offers substantial scholarships that can cover tuition — and even a living stipend — if you agree to serve a minimum number of years as a military officer upon graduation.
Learn MoreJoin Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC)
If your high school offers JROTC, consider joining to get a head start on leadership training, and to prepare for ROTC in college.
Do Your Research
Before deciding whether ROTC could be a fit for you, read up on the program and the associated scholarship to better understand the potential benefits and commitments.
Get Leadership Experience
Participating in extracurriculars like student council, specialty clubs and sports teams can open the door to gaining leadership experience before ROTC.
Keep Your Grades Up
While GPA requirements vary by ROTC branch, it’s important to focus on academics throughout high school to strengthen your future application.
Take the Tests
Spring of junior year is the time to take the SAT or ACT. Curious about which is right for you? Both offer a full-length practice version.
Join Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC)
If your high school offers JROTC, consider joining to get a head start on leadership training, and to prepare for ROTC in college.
Get Leadership Experience
Participating in extracurriculars like student council, specialty clubs and sports teams can open the door to gaining leadership experience before ROTC.
Focus On Fitness
If you’re serious about ROTC, we recommend prioritizing fitness and well-being in high school to help prepare for future physical training.
Did You Know?
ROTC is a great way to pay for college. The program offers substantial scholarships that can cover tuition — and even a living stipend — if you agree to serve a minimum number of years as a military officer upon graduation.
Learn MoreDo Your Research
Before deciding whether ROTC could be a fit for you, read up on the program and the associated scholarship to better understand the potential benefits and commitments.
Senior Year
Application Process
As you start the college application process, make sure the schools on your list offer ROTC.
Retake Tests if Need Be
If you want to try to boost your test score, you can typically retake the SAT or ACT exam in the fall of senior year before completing your college applications.
Apply For Scholarships
If eligible, apply for ROTC scholarships. Award decisions are made at a national level, so you can carry the scholarship to any college offering the program.
Check If Cross-Enrollment is possible
If your school of choice doesn't offer ROTC, check into “cross-enrollment programs” with nearby colleges or universities. If the program is an option, be sure to ask your school if they will provide travel assistance between the two campuses.
Pass Medical and Physical Exams
If you’re chosen for an ROTC scholarship, you must complete a medical examination and fitness assessment. One more reason to stay fit!
Attend Information Sessions
Learn more about ROTC by attending open houses and information sessions, and by meeting with ROTC advisers and speaking with current cadets.
Did You Know?
ROTC scholarships are highly competitive, with application deadlines typically at the beginning of your senior year of high school. While you can apply after you’ve arrived at college, and even during your second year, it pays to plan ahead.
Did You Know?
Almost all Service branches offer ROTC. You can apply to multiple branches and if accepted to more than one, choose the branch that best fits your goals.
As you start the college application process, make sure the schools on your list offer ROTC.
Apply For Scholarships
If eligible, apply for ROTC scholarships. Award decisions are made at a national level, so you can carry the scholarship to any college offering the program.
Pass Medical and Physical Exams
If you’re chosen for an ROTC scholarship, you must complete a medical examination and fitness assessment. One more reason to stay fit!
Did You Know?
ROTC scholarships are highly competitive, with application deadlines typically at the beginning of your senior year of high school. While you can apply after you’ve arrived at college, and even during your second year, it pays to plan ahead.
Retake Tests if Need Be
If you want to try to boost your test score, you can typically retake the SAT or ACT exam in the fall of senior year before completing your college applications.
Check If Cross-Enrollment is possible
If your school of choice doesn't offer ROTC, check into “cross-enrollment programs” with nearby colleges or universities. If the program is an option, be sure to ask your school if they will provide travel assistance between the two campuses.
Attend Information Sessions
Learn more about ROTC by attending open houses and information sessions, and by meeting with ROTC advisers and speaking with current cadets.
Did You Know?
Almost all Service branches offer ROTC. You can apply to multiple branches and if accepted to more than one, choose the branch that best fits your goals.