How to Become a Marine Officer

The United States Marine Corps is looking for leaders to become Marine officers. Since the Marine Corps is part of the Department of the Navy, some of the officer programs are shared with the Navy such as the United States Naval Academy. Other programs are just for Marines. Read on to learn how to become a Marine officer.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet Connection
• Computer

1. Decide if you want to be an officer in the United States Marine Corps. All Marines are infantry officers first, but the possibilities go well beyond that to include pilots, tank commanders, artillery officers and others.
2. Find out about the four main ways to become a Marine officer. The options include the United States Naval Academy, NROTC Marine Option, Platoon Leaders Class and the Officer Candidate Course.
3. Ensure you meet the basic eligibility requirements such being a U.S. citizen, passing the medical exam and meeting the age limits. The requirements vary with different commissioning paths. Some may include GPA or SAT requirements.
4. Figure out where you want to go to college. If you are interested in Navy ROTC make sure that the school you wish to attend has a program. You may apply to the Naval Academy and for a NROTC scholarship.
5. Apply to college. You must go to college to enter one of these programs. The Platoon Leaders Course takes place in the summers while you are a college student.
6. Get in top physical condition. The Marines pride themselves on being in top shape. The training programs are designed to be physically rigorous.
7. Begin your application process on line at the Marine Corps website or speak with an Officer Selection Officer.

Tips & Warnings

• The Marine Corps is looking for leaders above all else.
• The most common commissioning source is the Platoon Leaders Course.
• If you have already graduated from college then the Officer Candidate Course is the path available.
• If you want to be a doctor or chaplain and work with the Marines you must do it as a Naval officer.
• If you are enlisted there are ways to become an officer such as the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program which will send top performing enlisted Marines to get their Bachelor's degree.
• Follow directions and do not miss deadlines.
• Being in shape cannot be overemphasized.

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