Clarification on OCS for Non-Prior Service

[Myklanjlo]

Hi guys.

I'm a 26 y/o male who has NEVER served in the military (nor ROTC or anything else). I have 65 semester units of college from UCLA, and I have a good SAT score. I expect to pass the ASVAB without problems. After finishing my bacherlor's degree, I plan on going to medical school. I am interested in joining the Guard for the following reasons, primarily:

1. Financial opportunities to help with college costs
2. Medical Training applicable to my career choice (91W)
3. Leadership experience as an officer

I have read all the websites, and I have spoken with a recruiter, but I can't seem to get straight answers on some questions. So, here goes....

1. Can I apply for State OCS as a non-prior service applicant? If so, what is the order of training? Is it BCT > AIT > State OCS, or do I skip AIT and just do BCT > OCS? I have been told both, and I'm confused. Will I be giving up my training and the opportunity to be MOS-qualified as a medic just to go to OCS?

2. If I intend on becoming an officer, does that mean that I am giving up my enlistment bonus of $20,000? Is there a different bonus for OCS applicants? If I'm MOS-qualified, then why should it matter if I am a combat medic or if I command a platoon of medics?

I guess I'm basically asking WHAT SHOULD I DO? Do I go straight into the State OCS program or do I go the enlisted route, get 25 more college credits, and apply for Accelerated OCS later? What are the financial implications? Bonuses?

Thanks, in advance, for helping me answer these questions!

[matthew.ritchie]

The OCS contract is significantly different than a standard contract, so some recruiters aren't familiar with it, hence their reticence in making definitive statements without doing research. You may wish to get your recruiter's boss involved -- not to embarass your recruiter, but to help him get through this contract and do it right the first time.

1. You can apply "off the street" for OCS. This is the OCS Enlistment option. There are additional requirements (e.g., GT score of 110, 60 college credits, age 39 or less AT TIME OF COMMISSIONING). You will attend Basic Training, then state OCS on a drill schedule (one weekend per month, 15 days per summer) for 18 months.
2. The bonus rules change constantly, and I refuse to speak to this issue, since it's not in my lane. Again, if your recruiter doesn't fill you with confidence, get his boss involved.

If you want to be a medic, then enlist for that MOS. If you are otherwise qualified you can attend OCS later (your age leaves you a few more years to apply). Look into ROTC at UCLA, which is a sweet deal -- you can earn a two year Guard ROTC scholarship.

My personal recommendation:

1. Enlist as a medic, complete Basic and AIT as soon as possible.
2. Look into ROTC at your college. If it's right for you, then participate.
3. Apply through your ROTC program for a Dedicated ARNG ROTC scholarship.

[Myklanjlo]

Thank you for the reply. Since my medical training is more critical to me right now, I think the enlisted route is the best option. I appreciate the help!