Getting to OCS, Part I: Application and OSO

Part I – First Contact: What to Expect When You Talking to an OSO for the First Time So you’ve decided you might be interested in becoming an officer in the Marine Corps. You’ve avoided the pull of the other branches, and you’ve done at least a little research into what Marine Officers do. What do you do next? If you’re not sure where your … Continue reading Getting to OCS, Part I: Application and OSO

One Candidate’s Lessons Learned for OSOs

My Story My first application, which was unsuccessful, was in 2012 with a 273 PFT and with the same exact recommendations/letters/reason-for-joining/waivers/etc. My second visit into the office was March 2015 and it was with a new Captain and Staff Sergeant, but the same civilian secretary. Instantly, the secretary vouched for me and praised me, telling everyone in the office that I was the “perfect gentlemen,” proclaiming how … Continue reading One Candidate’s Lessons Learned for OSOs

USMC Officer Program Recommendation Letter: What You Need to Know

Your OCS application has many components, but one of the most overlooked is the letters of recommendation. When the board looks at two candidates with roughly equal packages, the letters of recommendation can easily make the difference between acceptance and a rejection letter. The Who Consider a wide variety of people to write your letters of recommendation. The important thing to keep in mind is … Continue reading USMC Officer Program Recommendation Letter: What You Need to Know

Should I Talk to an OSO Before I’m “Ready” for OCS?

Candidate Question: I am currently enrolled in college, majoring in Computer Science. I have struggled quite a bit in finding a major to stick with, but am now positive this is the right major for me. I currently have roughly a 3.0 GPA and will continue to improve on that as I go. I have always been interested in serving our country. …after personal family … Continue reading Should I Talk to an OSO Before I’m “Ready” for OCS?

The Truth About OCS Application Waivers

Special thanks to candidate Kyle who shares his insight There are two types of waivers: medical and moral Medical waivers are only considered as you are in the process of being medically qualified to apply for OCS. Once you are deemed medically qualified, review boards don’t see your medical waivers. They only see that you are medically qualified. Moral waivers are any waivers needed for … Continue reading The Truth About OCS Application Waivers